bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Craving is everything: An eye-tracking exploration of attentional bias in binge drinking
Authors: Bollen Zoé , Masson Nicolas , Salvaggio Samuel , D’Hondt Fabien , Maurage Pierre
Published: March 2020

Background:

Attentional bias towards alcohol-related stimuli is a core characteristic of severe alcohol use disorders (AUD), directly linked to clinical variables (e.g. alcohol consumption, relapse). Nevertheless, the extent of this bias in subclinical populations remains poorly documented. This is particularly true for binge drinking, an alcohol consumption pattern highly prevalent in youth, characterised by an alternation between excessive intakes and withdrawal periods.

Aims:

We used eye-tracking to: (a) measure attentional bias in binge drinking, (b) determine its time course by dissociating early/late processing stages, (c) clarify its specificity for alcohol-related stimuli compared to other appetitive stimulations and (d) explore its modulation by current craving intensity.

Methods:

Binge drinkers ( n=42) and matched controls ( n=43) performed a visual probe task, requiring visual targets preceded by pairs of pictures to be processed, with three conditions (i.e. alcohol vs. soft drink, alcohol vs. high-calorie food, high-calorie food vs. low-calorie food).

Results:

No group difference was observed for early processing (i.e. first area of interest visited). Dwell times highlighted a bias towards soft drinks and healthy food among controls, without any global bias towards alcohol in binge drinkers. Centrally, a comparison of binge drinkers with low versus high current craving intensity indicated that binge drinking was associated with a bias towards alcohol and high-calorie food only in the presence of a high craving towards these stimuli.

Conclusion:

Attentional bias towards alcohol reported in severe AUD is only found in binge drinkers in the presence of high craving and is generalised to other appetitive cues.
Sense of Community in Early Adolescents: Validating the Scale of Sense of Community in Early Adolescents
Authors: Prati Gabriele , Tomasetto Carlo , Cicognani Elvira
Published: March 2020

Psychological sense of community among early adolescents has been investigated using instruments developed for adolescents/adults or ad hoc scales. The aim was to contribute to the validation of a scale of Sense of Community in Early Adolescents (SoC-EA) using a 3-year longitudinal study. Participants were 576 Italian students attending middle schools. Participants filled out a questionnaire 3 times, in the second term of their first, second, and third middle school years. Results provided support for a five-factor model and both bifactor and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) models had excellent fit. The SoC-EA can be scored according to each subscale or a total score. In addition, the SoC-EA demonstrated (a) longitudinal measurement invariance across the middle school years; (b) good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and test-retest correlation across the 3 years; and (c) adequate construct validity. Findings support the use of the SoC-EA to measure sense of community in early adolescence.
Equine Intestinal Lymphoma: Clinical-Pathological Features, Immunophenotype, and Survival
Authors: Bacci Barbara , Stent Andrew William , Walmsley Elizabeth Ann
Published: March 2020

Lymphoma is the most common intestinal neoplasm in horses, but its clinical-pathological features are poorly characterized. Primary intestinal lymphoma was diagnosed in 20 horses on biopsy samples and further confirmed by postmortem examination in 16 cases. Lymphoma was found in the small intestine in 12 of 20 (60%), in the colon in 5 of 20 (25%), and in both small and large intestines in 3 of 20 (15%) cases. Gross findings included thickening of the intestinal wall (45%), mural nodules or masses (30%), and both thickening and nodules (10%). Cases were classified according to the human World Health Organization classification as enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) type 1 (40%), EATL type 2 (45%), and T-cell-rich large B-cell lymphoma (TCRLBCL) (15%). With respect to histologic grade, 70% of cases were grade 1 and 30% were grade 2. Of EATLs, the infiltrate was mucosal only (12%), mucosal and submucosal (53%), or transmural (35%). EATL1 was submucosal to transmural (2/8 and 6/8), EATL2 was mucosal to submucosal (3/9 and 6/9), and TCRLBCL was always transmural. Epitheliotropism was present in most EATLs and characterized by single-cell infiltrates within the epithelium in EATL1 and intraepithelial clusters or plaques in EATL2. Median survival was 25 days for EATL1, 90 days for EATL2, and 187.5 days for TCRLBCL; differences were not statistically significant. Of the EATLs, grade 1 had a median survival of 60 days and grade 2 had a median survival of 25 days; differences were not statistically significant.
Ocular and Lacrimal Gland Lesions in Naturally Occurring Rabies of Domestic and Wild Mammals
Authors: Dalton Martha F. , Siepker Chris L. , Maboni Grazieli , Sanchez Susan , Rissi Daniel R.
Published: March 2020

Investigations describing the ocular and lacrimal gland lesions associated with rabies are sparse. Here we characterize the pathological changes and distribution of rabies viral antigen in the eye, optic nerve, and lacrimal gland of 18 rabies cases from different mammalian species. Histology and immunohistochemistry for rabies virus, CD3, CD20, and Iba1 were performed on tissue sections of eye, optic nerve, and lacrimal gland. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for rabies was performed on all cases, including 7 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and 11 frozen tissue samples of eye and lacrimal gland. Pathological changes in the eye consisted of retinal necrosis (12/18 cases) with occasional viral inclusions within ganglion cells (8/12 cases). Immunohistochemically, viral antigen was detected within the nerve fiber layer, ganglion cells, and inner plexiform layer in all 12 cases with retinal lesions and in 2 cases with no retinal lesions, as well as optic nerve (6/18 cases) and lacrimal gland epithelium (3/18 cases). CD3+ T lymphocytes were present in the retina (11/18 cases), optic nerve (2/18 cases), and lacrimal gland (11/18 cases). No CD20+ B lymphocytes or Iba1+ macrophages were detected. PCR for rabies virus was positive in 9 of 11 frozen samples but in only 2 of 7 FFPE samples. Five samples that were negative for rabies by PCR were positive by immunohistochemistry, and 2 samples were negative by both tests. These results provide evidence that rabies virus infection extends to the eye, likely via the ocular nerve, and that the lacrimal gland might be a source of viral infection.
From eviction to evicting: Rethinking the technologies, lives and power sustaining displacement
Authors: Baker Alexander
Published: March 2020

An unnamed shift has occurred in geographies of eviction. While past research focused on the causes and effects of eviction in political economy, state power, and cultural difference, emerging work emphasises the subjective experience and sustaining practices of eviction as it happens. This paper makes the case for this turn away from causes and outcomes of ‘eviction’, and towards ‘evicting’ as a set of material technologies and practices that sustain displacement, and explores the implications of such a shift. Research into lived durations of eviction, evicting technologies, and eviction enforcement agencies opens up new conceptual and political fields of intervention.
Uric acid distribution volume calculated by kinetic modeling and extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance method
Authors: Shinzato Toru , Nakai Shigeru , Ito Takahito , Shibata Kazuhiko , Matsuoka Teppei , Kato Shinya , Aoki Takeshi , Masakane Ikuto , Hayashi Hiroki , Tsuboi Naotake , Hasegawa Midori , Inaguma Daijo , Yuzawa Yukio , Ookawara Susumu
Published: March 2020

Background:

Several reports indicate that extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance analysis method is associated with hydration status of hemodialysis patients.

Theory:

Fundamentally, uric acid does not cross cell membranes by simple diffusion, either by facilitated diffusion or by active transport. In addition, uric acid cannot move through cell membranes in most tissues other than those involved in uric acid excretion. These facts support the interpretation that uric acid distribution volume would therefore correlate with extracellular volume.

Methods:

We examined correlation between uric acid distribution volume calculated by uric acid mass-balance modeling from regular blood test results and extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance analysis predicted by BCM (Fresenius Medical Care) in 53 patients.

Results:

There was a significant correlation between uric acid distribution volume ( x) and extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance analysis ( y): y = 0.69 x + 3.39, r2 = 0.61, p < 0.0001. Bland–Altman analysis showed systematic error for uric acid distribution volume versus extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance analysis (mean difference between uric acid distribution volume and extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance analysis was 0.94 L, 95% confidence interval of difference was −3.29 to 5.17 L).

Conclusion:

Uric acid distribution volume calculated by uric acid mass-balance modeling from regular blood test results may be an alternative marker of extracellular volume predicted by bioimpedance analysis.
Public views and attitudes about municipal waste management: Empirical evidence from Athens, Greece
Authors: Drimili Efi , Herrero-Martin Ruth , Suardiaz-Muro Juan , Zervas Efthimios
Published: March 2020

One of the major problems of modern cities is waste management. Cooperation and active public participation are key elements in the effective implementation of waste management programs. The purpose of this work is to investigate the views and attitudes of Athens residents towards recycling, composting and the operation of green centers, which are the key elements of solid waste management as it follows from the recently updated National Waste Management Plan. A structured questionnaire was designed and addressed to the residents of Athens. According to the main findings, half of the respondents are involved in recycling, and the majority of the respondents are willing to participate in future composting programs and have a positive opinion about the operation of green centers. The main obstacle for their further participation is their hesitation regarding the proper operation of the programs (recycling, composting, green centers). There is a need to build up the trust between citizens and the state. Active public involvement is required to successfully implement municipal solid waste strategies during all the phases (planning, siting and operation) in order to ensure public acceptance. In addition, targeted information and awareness campaigns can also contribute to this aim.
Numerical model to predict the effect of wood density in wood–steel–wood connections with and without passive protection under fire
Authors: Fonseca Elza MM , Silva Lino , Leite Pedro AS
Published: March 2020

The main objective of this work is to present a numerical model to predict the effect of wood density in unprotected wood connections with an internal steel plate (wood–steel–wood), when comparing with the same connections using passive protection with gypsum plasterboard, submitted to fire conditions. Wood–steel–wood connections are made of four wood members, two on each side, with an internal steel plate that connects the pieces using steel dowel fasteners. First, analytical methodologies according to Eurocode 5 part 1-1 were used to design the connections at room temperature. After that, to predict the fire exposure and the connection ability, a numerical model was performed which permits to compare the fire resistance in wood–steel–wood connections without and with passive protection following the Eurocode 5 part 1-2. Results of the temperature and the wood char layer depth were compared using three different wood densities. The evolution of the charring rate was calculated in different locations of the connections and compared with the analytical value proposed by the Eurocode 5 part 1-2.
Displacement and the expectation of political violence: Evidence from Bosnia
Authors: Suzuki Akisato , Stefanovic Djordje , Loizides Neophytos
Published: March 2020

How do different degrees of displaced people’s hardship shape their expectations of peace and violence in post-conflict societies? We develop a novel explanation and empirically examine it using survey data collected in Bosnia Herzegovina in 2013. The displaced may suffer by being the target of the hostility of opposing groups and/or by receiving little support from, or being mistreated by, their own groups and international actors. As a result, they develop negative opinions about these actors, friend and foe alike, become pessimistic about the possibility of cooperation, and see post-conflict peace as unsustainable. We find those who have suffered greater hardship during displacement are more likely to foresee political violence. Hardship during displacement is also a stronger predictor than the experience of violence. Our analysis implies that, while violence does have an impact as suggested by the literature, other hardship during displacement, such as the lack of support, also matters.
Higher Density Development for Lower Cost Housing? Understanding the Multifamily Housing Market and the Role of Density in Multifamily Home Prices
Authors: Dong Hongwei
Published: March 2020

This study documents the development and the characteristics of multifamily homes in the Portland metropolitan area and evaluate the roles of density and density-related factors in determining multifamily home prices. The study finds that medium-density multifamily homes sell at lower prices than other housing types in dollar per unit and dollar per square foot. The cost-saving effect of higher density development is weak or even negative, and dwelling size is the primary determinant of multifamily home prices. The effects of neighborhood density on home prices depend on housing types. Investors own almost a half of nonapartment multifamily homes and buy homes at lower prices.
Problems, Related to the Occurrence of Organic Pollutants in the Indoor Environment
Authors: Kliest J. J. G. , Bloemen H. J. Th.
Published: March 2020

Evaluation of the occurrence of organic compounds in the indoor environment is needed on at least two levels:

1. Evaluation of the overall prevalence of organic compounds in the indoor air.

2. Evaluation of abnormal concentrations in the indoor air as a result of more or less special circumstances.

On both levels this evaluation can be problematic as a result of missing information on exposure to, and health risks of the measured compounds. As a result of this, only general remarks can be made about the relevance of the presence of organic compounds in the indoor air. The choice of the right policy is therefore often difficult. When, as a result of special circumstances the indoor air concentrations of organic compounds are elevated as in the case of houses built on polluted soil, or houses treated with a hydrofobing agent it is as a consequence, often difficult to take effectively the proper decisions. To solve these problems, a great deal of research appears to be necessary. By using all available information produced by the analysis and new techniques like pattern and source-recognition it may be possible to do this research in a more direct way.
Errors in Exposure Measures
Authors: Lebret Erik
Published: March 2020

Errors in exposure measures reduce the power in statistical tests in health effect studies, and also bias the estimate of the magnitude of the effect of exposure on health. Several types of error in commonly used exposure measures are described. To study how these errors in exposure measures may obscure exposure-response relationships, an imaginary data set was generated, with (indoor) exposure to nitrogen dioxide and fine particles in relation to pulmonary function as an example. With this data set, the effect of different types of errors in the exposure measures were simulated. The simulation indicated that a serious under- or overestimation of the magnitude of the health effect can occur due to errors in the exposure measures. The bias was more pronounced for errors in strong than in weak determinants of the health effects.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Assessing the Health Risk of Air Toxic Chemicals: An Overview
Authors: Grose E. C. , Selgrade M. J. K. , Busnell P. J. , Simmons J. E. , Allen J. , McGee J. , Hauchman F. , Graham J. A.
Published: March 2020

To assist the regulatory branch of the Environmental Protection Agency in addressing the risk assessment of air toxics, the Health Effects Research Laboratory initiated a comprehensive inhalation toxicology program to provide key health effects data missing from the current data base. A priority ranking of chemicals based on the potential for substantial human exposure and the need for health effects data was developed to identify candidate chemicals for toxicological research. The major goal of the program is to evaluate the concentration-response from acute, intermittent and subchronic inhalation exposures to developmental, genetic, hepatic, immunologic, neurologic, pulmonary and reproductive toxicity in a manner that provides data for the regulatory health assessment of air toxic chemicals. Extrapolation and dosimetry research is also conducted to improve the basis for human risk assessment. Determination of biological endpoints to be examined will be decided on a compound-by-compound basis, depending on the physical, chemical and structural characteristics of the chemical and evaluation of the existing health data base. Although the main emphasis is on inhalation as the primary route of exposure, some of the laboratories will compare inhalation to other routes, such as oral, to better understand the influence of route of exposure and hence the potential applicability of existing health data. Acute and intermittent exposures will be done for all compounds. Upon evaluation of the acute results, a decision will be made as to whether subchronic studies are needed. Endpoints that show unusual sensitivity may be investigated in greater detail. The total length of exposure will vary from 1 to 21 days. The daily length of exposure will range from 1 to 8 hr. If adverse effects are observed at ambient levels, the time to recovery after exposure will be investigated.
A Respiratory Tract Dosimetry Model for Air Toxics
Authors: Overton John H.
Published: March 2020

The development of a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for the whole body in which inhalation, exhalation, and metabolism in respiratory tract tissues are taken into account is described. As an example of the model's use, the results of several experiments in which rats and humans were exposed to styrene were simulated; these results are discussed. The predicted results agree with the empirical data and with the modeling results of others.
Cadmium Contamination of the Countryside, a Case Study on Health Effects
Authors: Kreis Irene A.
Published: March 2020

The border region between Belgium and The Netherlands, the Kempen, was found to be polluted with cadmium. The main route of pollution had been by air but some cadmium came by way of surface-water and solid waste. This resulted in an increase in the cadmium content of locally grown vegetables. The consequential exposure to cadmium of humans living in the area has been estimated using various methods and is approximately the FAO/WHO maximum allowable daily intake, smoking disregarded. Several studies of possible effects on public health were conducted. Among these studies were two geographic studies, one on hospital admissions for various non-malignant diseases and one on cancer-incidence. Two cohort studies on possible teratogenic effects in a non-occupationally exposed, non-smoking vegetarian population with a high fertility and good registration were also conducted. A survey on cadmium content of the urine and kidney damage in a longtime but non-occupationally exposed rural population and a reference population formed the main study. Also, a survey on cadmium content of the kidney samples of autopsied patients in a population based study and a reference population was conducted. Together these studies showed that the extra exposure had lead to an additional body-burden of cadmium resulting in various signs of malfunction. In consequence of the findings the Netherlands Ministry for Housing, Physical Planning and Environment appropriated money to cleanup contaminated gardens.
Effects of Air Pollution Episodes on Pulmonary Function and Respiratory Symptoms
Authors: Hoek Gerard , Brunekreef Bert , Hofschreuder Peter , Lumens Mieke
Published: March 2020

In January 1985, a decline of primary school children's pulmonary function was observed during an air pollution episode. Ambient 24 hour average levels of SO2, TSP and RSP were in the range of 200–250 μg/m3. The response persisted for at least two weeks. In January 1987, again a decline of school children's pulmonary function was observed associated with an air pollution episode. Levels of TSP were about as elevated as in the 1985 episode. Two weeks after the episode, lung function levels were even lower than during the episode. In June 1987 a long term study was started to investigate potential effects of winter and summer air pollution episodes on pulmonary function and occurrence of acute respiratory symptoms of primary school children. An important issue for this study is the characterization of short term variation of lung function in absence of air pollution. Exposure is characterized by ambient levels of several gases (SO2, NO2, O3, HNP3), PM10, TSP and components of particulate matter (SO2−4, NO-3, H+, NH+4). Sampling is being conducted on a daily basis to obtain a continuous exposure estimate. In the winter of 1987/1988, no air pollution episodes were observed. The study will continue through the winters of 1988/1989, and 1989/1990.
Research on Risk Assessment and Risk Management: Future Directions
Authors: Grant L. D. , Jarabek A. M.
Published: March 2020

This paper has been reviewed by the Office of Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and approved for publication. Approval does not signify that the contents necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Agency, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.

The U.S. EPA has increasingly relied upon quantitative health risk assessments as the basis for management decisions about public health protection. Full utilization of risk assessment in management applications, however, is limited by uncertainties in the resultant accuracy of the risk estimates. This paper will discuss a research strategy to address the uncertainties in the risk assessment process and describe parallel issues to address in the risk management area. An attendant need for effective communication of complex scientific concepts is also identified.
Computer Aided Emergency Response Systems
Authors: Kretzschmar J. G.
Published: March 2020

Over the past years several, less or more integrated emergency management support and information systems have been developed and implemented. After a short review of the larger, mainly governmentally sponsored systems and of a selection from the smaller commercially available systems, the computer aided emergency response system (CAERS) of the Belgian Nuclear Energy Research Centre is highlighted.
Brain Stiffness Relates to Dynamic Balance Reactions in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: McIlvain Grace , Tracy James B. , Chaze Charlotte A. , Petersen Drew A. , Villermaux Gabrielle M. , Wright Henry G. , Miller Freeman , Crenshaw Jeremy R. , Johnson Curtis L.
Published: March 2020

Cerebral palsy is a neurodevelopmental movement disorder that affects coordination and balance. Therapeutic treatments for balance deficiencies in this population primarily focus on the musculoskeletal system, whereas the neural basis of balance impairment is often overlooked. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is an emerging technique that has the ability to sensitively assess microstructural brain health through in vivo measurements of neural tissue stiffness. Using magnetic resonance elastography, we have previously measured significantly softer grey matter in children with cerebral palsy as compared with typically developing children. To further allow magnetic resonance elastography to be a clinically useful tool in rehabilitation, we aim to understand how brain stiffness in children with cerebral palsy is related to dynamic balance reaction performance as measured through anterior and posterior single-stepping thresholds, defined as the standing perturbation magnitudes that elicit anterior or posterior recovery steps. We found that global brain stiffness is significantly correlated with posterior stepping thresholds ( P = .024) such that higher brain stiffness was related to better balance recovery. We further identified specific regions of the brain where stiffness was correlated with stepping thresholds, including the precentral and postcentral gyri, the precuneus and cuneus, and the superior temporal gyrus. Identifying brain regions affected in cerebral palsy and related to balance impairment can help inform rehabilitation strategies targeting neuroplasticity to improve motor function.
Achieving More With Less: Intuitive Correction in Selection
Authors: Rabinovitch Hagai , Bereby-Meyer Yoella , Budescu David V.
Published: March 2020

Choosing between candidates for a position can be tricky, especially when the selection test is affected by irrelevant characteristics (e.g., reading speed). One can correct for this irrelevant attribute by penalizing individuals who have unjustifiably benefited from it. Statistical models do so by including the irrelevant attribute as a suppressor variable, but can people do the same without the help of a model? In three experiments (total N = 357), participants had to choose between two candidates, one of whom had higher levels of an irrelevant attribute and thus enjoyed an unfair advantage. Participants showed a substantial preference for the candidate with high levels of the irrelevant attribute, thus choosing the less suitable candidate. This bias was attenuated when the irrelevant attribute was a situational factor, probably by making the correction process more intuitive. Understanding the intuitive judgment of suppressor variables can help candidates from underprivileged groups boost their chances to succeed.
Combining Universal Design for Learning and Self-Regulated Strategy Development to Bolster Writing Instruction
Authors: Hashey Andrew I. , Miller Katie M. , Foxworth Lauren L.
Published: March 2020

Students with disabilities encounter persistent barriers in writing, which manifest within all phases of the writing process. These challenges can involve both higher order processes (e.g., organization, idea development) as well as lower order processes (e.g., legibility, spelling) related to writing. Educators can apply the principles of the universal design for learning (UDL) to lesson design by prioritizing student engagement considerations, promoting increased options for composing writing, and representing key ideas through multiple modalities. To further support struggling writers, teachers can use the self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) instructional approach to equip students with the knowledge, skills, dispositions, and self-regulatory behaviors that skillful writers regularly employ in their writing. By combining UDL and SRSD, educators have the opportunity to both broaden the reach of their writing instruction from the outset, and to optimize individualized supports for all writers in today’s classrooms.
Correcting Misperceptions about the MMR Vaccine: Using Psychological Risk Factors to Inform Targeted Communication Strategies
Authors: Lunz Trujillo Kristin , Motta Matthew , Callaghan Timothy , Sylvester Steven
Published: March 2020

Many Americans endorse misinformation about vaccine safety. This is problematic because those who do are more likely to resist evidence-based policies, such as mandatory vaccination for school attendance. Although many have attempted to correct misinformation about vaccines, few attempts have been successful. This study uses psychological correlates of vaccine misinformation acceptance to develop a novel misinformation correction strategy by tailoring provaccine messages to appeal to these psychological traits. For example, people with higher moral purity levels are more likely to view vaccines as contaminating the body, but messages highlighting disease via under-vaccination can use their higher moral purity to push them toward vaccine support. Using a large survey experiment ( N = 7,019) and a smaller replication experiment ( N = 825) of American adults, we demonstrate that interventions designed to appeal to people high in moral purity and needle sensitivity—two relatively understudied correlates of vaccine misinformation support—can also be targeted to effectively reduce vaccine misinformation endorsement. This study provides a better understanding of the psychological origins of misinformed political and policy attitudes, and it suggests a strategy for combating policy-related misinformation more generally, ultimately boosting support for evidence-based policies.
Partisan Intensity in Congress: Evidence from Brett Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court Nomination
Authors: Gelman Jeremy
Published: March 2020

Partisan disputes are ubiquitous in Congress. Yet, participation in this bickering varies among legislators. Some eagerly join these fights while others abstain. What explains this variation? Previous research examines this question by studying members’ partisan preferences expressed through votes or bill cosponsorships. However, preference-based studies miss much of the daily congressional bickering and cannot identify which legislators were most involved in the fighting. This paper considers lawmakers’ partisan intensity, the time and effort they devote to partisanship. I argue the same factors that drive other forms of legislative participation—constituent demand, committee service, and a member’s personal characteristics—also predict who joins a partisan dispute. Using Senators’ daily Twitter communications during Brett Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court confirmation, I show legislators’ partisan intensity systematically varied based on these factors. In particular, I find that sexual assault allegations against Kavanaugh altered Senators’ partisan behavior in a predictable manner. This study helps explain why legislators choose to create the partisan acrimony that is omnipresent on Capitol Hill and contributes to our understanding of partisanship, messaging politics, and how social identity affects legislative participation.
Measuring Family Members’ Experiences of Integrating Chronic Illness Into Family Life: Preliminary Validity and Reliability of the Family Integration Experience Scale:Chronic Illness (FIES:CI)
Authors: Meiers Sonja J. , Eggenberger Sandra K. , Krumwiede Norma K. , Deppa Brant
Published: March 2020

Measures of family members’ experiences of integrating chronic conditions (CC) or chronic illnesses (CI) into family life are needed to optimize family care. This article reports development and psychometric testing of the Family Integration Experience Scale: Chronic Illness (FIES:CI), a measure of family member perceptions of integrating CC or CI into evolving family life. Family Systems Nursing (FSN), the Reintegration Within Families in the Context of Chronic Illness Model, and measurement theory guided the study. Participants were those ( N = 328) managing a CC or CI. Concurrent validity ( r = +.629; p < .001) and discriminant validity, F(1, 155) = 7.09; p < .05, were demonstrated. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-dimensional model explaining 63.8% variance. Scale internal reliability was α = .70 and .785, and factor reliabilities were α = .798 (Factor 1) and α = .847 (Factor 2). Test–retest item and subscale correlations, while accounting for intra-family correlation, were acceptable. The FIES:CI contributes a valuable new measure of family integration in the context of CC or CI with preliminary validity and reliability as tested in these samples.
The Influence of Spatial Density of Nonprofits on Crime
Authors: Schaible Lonnie , Dwight Lucy , Heckler Nuri
Published: March 2020

Nonprofits have been posited to have benefits for communities and neighborhoods, including reduction of crime. Empirical research has provided mixed results. Drawing on both criminological and theories of public organization and organizational ecology, this article examines the effects of nonprofit density on neighborhood crime in Denver, Colorado, between 2010 and 2015. Controlling for demographic and environmental influences, as well as the effects of spatiotemporal autoregression, results suggest that a higher density of both place-based and generic nonprofits ameliorate rates of crime. In contrast, nonprofits focused on crime reduction have a significant positive curvilinear effect on several types of crime. Findings also suggest that while nonprofits at the micro-ecological level increase crime to a point, the impact is negligible compared with other factors. Moreover, a relatively high density of place-based or generic nonprofits may have some benefits at higher densities, indicating a synergistic effect.
On the attenuation of fluid–structure coupled modes in a non-planar waveguide
Authors: Shafique Sajid , Afzal Muhammad , Nawaz Rab
Published: March 2020

In this article, the attenuation of fluid–structure coupled modes of non-planar waveguide involving cavities is discussed. The physical problem is modeled to illustrate the scattering behavior of acoustic waves in a flexible waveguide composed of thin elastic elements having edges or joints and structural discontinuities. The fluid–structure coupled waveforms scatter after interacting with the discontinuities and edges of the underlying structure. An appropriate choice of edges offers scattering or resonance processes, which also guide fluid–structure coupled waves. The mode-matching technique, together with low-frequency approximation, is used to determine velocity potentials. The guiding structure is then analyzed and validated through scattering energy functionals by varying the dimensions of the cavities and the wave frequency. The results are formulated and analyzed by tuning the device using an appropriate choice of edge conditions, dimension of cavities, and wave frequencies, thereby validating the obtained solutions. These descriptions are very useful for the active control measure of structural vibrations.
Herding the Hordes: Using Location-Based Services and Mobile Messaging to Affect Visitor Behavior
Authors: Högberg Johan , Wästlund Erik , Aas Tor Helge , Hjemdahl Kirsti , Nordgård Daniel
Published: March 2020

This study investigates modes of moving visitors in a tourist location using a location-based service. Two field experiments were conducted at a zoo using real visitors as participants and behavior-based dependent variables. Experiment 1 included 2,618 visitors and investigated whether the amount of rewards, in the form of free spins on a wheel of fortune, would affect the choice to move to this wheel and claim the offered rewards. The choice of using this offer was used as a dependent variable. Experiment 2 included 970 visitors and investigated whether labelling participants with a fitting trait led them to move to a certain location. Geographical data using iBeacon logging was used as the dependent variable. Using chi-square tests for independence, we causally show that both the reward and the label had a positive and significant effect on moving the visitors to the targeted location.
The Good, the Bad, and Recovery: Adolescents Describe the Advantages and Disadvantages of Alternative Peer Groups
Authors: Smith Nina ZY , Vasquez Pablo J , Emelogu Nnenna A , Hayes Alexis E , Engebretson Joan , Nash Angela J
Published: March 2020

In 2017, approximately 1.5 million American adolescents had a substance use disorder (SUD). Adolescents with SUD risk hindering their neurological development, which can result in problems with memory and self-regulation, and in turn disrupt their education, relationships, and life opportunities. Treating adolescents with SUD is challenging. Thus, effective models that help adolescents engage in long-term recovery are needed. The Alternative Peer Group (APG) is an adolescent recovery support model that incorporates pro-recovery peers and sober social activities into standard continuing care practices. In this qualitative study thematic content analysis methods were used to explore transcripts from in-depth interviews with adolescent APG participants collected in a prior study. The aim of this secondary analysis was to get a clear understanding of adolescents’ perceptions of the advantages and disadvantages of APGs for supporting SUD recovery. Findings suggest that pro-recovery peer and adult role models, structured activities and a positive social climate that promotes fun, a sense of belonging, and accountability are continuing care elements that are likely to help adolescents resolve their ambivalence about SUD recovery and increase their motivation to engage in the hard work of recovery. These findings can inform the design of effective recovery support model services that promote long-term recovery for adolescents with SUD.
Informational Needs in Patients With Breast Cancer With Lymphedema: Is It Important?
Authors: Dorri Sara , Olfatbakhsh Asiie , Asadi Farkhondeh
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

Lymphedema is one of the complications of breast cancer treatment. It has no cure yet and can affect the quality of life. This study aimed to identify and investigate informational needs, preferred delivery methods, and time of receiving information about lymphedema for these patients.

Methods:

One hundred participants were recruited through Lymphedema Clinic in Motamed Cancer Institute in Tehran, Iran, through convenience sampling and were asked to complete a self-administered survey. Data collection took place on all opening days between October 2018 and mid-March 2019.

Results:

Most of the participants were above 40 years, have a diploma, homemaker, and the average income of most of the participants (57.2%) was low. The importance of having lymphedema information was very high for them. Most of them wanted detailed information at diagnosis of breast cancer. The preferred information of delivery methods were private sessions and social networks.

Conclusions:

Patients with breast cancer who have lymphedema have high needs as regards concise lymphedema information. Private sessions with physicians and social networks can provide detailed information for them.
Reflecting on sonic environments through a structured questionnaire: Grounded theory analysis of situated interviews with musicians
Authors: Milo Alessia
Published: March 2020

Eight participants with a musical background were asked to reflect in depth on their experience of sonic environments through a structured questionnaire answered in either oral or written form. Six of these interviews took place at the Zentrum für Kunst und Medien in Karlsruhe, and two in London, to provide contrasting comparison terms. The questionnaire invited the participants to progress in their reasoning from the description of the present sonic environment to the formulation of thoughts on the acoustic design of spaces, the educational potential of soundwalking practices and the elicitation of places with aural character from their memory. The interview transcripts were qualitatively analysed through the grounded theory method with the aim to detail the underlying mechanisms towards the appraisal or criticism for an acoustic environment. Acoustic and psychoacoustic indicators were extracted from the binaural measurements of the interview settings to provide objective grounds for comparison. Five concurrent factors were identified as involved in the quality attribution process: purpose affordance, affective impact, memory, ecological awareness and acoustic design.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between Epstein–Barr virus, multiple sclerosis and other risk factors
Authors: Jacobs Benjamin M , Giovannoni Gavin , Cuzick Jack , Dobson Ruth
Published: March 2020

Background:

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection is thought to play a central role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). If causal, it represents a target for interventions to reduce MS risk.

Objective:

To examine the evidence for interaction between EBV and other risk factors, and explore mechanisms via which EBV infection may influence MS risk.

Methods:

Pubmed was searched using the terms ‘multiple sclerosis’ AND ‘Epstein Barr virus’, ‘multiple sclerosis’ AND EBV, ‘clinically isolated syndrome’ AND ‘Epstein Barr virus’ and ‘clinically isolated syndrome’ AND EBV. All abstracts were reviewed for possible inclusion.

Results:

A total of 262 full-text papers were reviewed. There was evidence of interaction on the additive scale between anti-EBV antibody titre and HLA genotype (attributable proportion due to interaction (AP) = 0.48, p < 1 × 10−4). Previous infectious mononucleosis (IM) was associated with increased odds ratio (OR) of MS in HLA-DRB1*1501 positive but not HLA-DRB1*1501 negative persons. Smoking was associated with a greater risk of MS in those with high anti-EBV antibodies (OR = 2.76) but not low anti-EBV antibodies (OR = 1.16). No interaction between EBV and risk factors was found on a multiplicative scale.

Conclusion:

EBV appears to interact with at least some established MS risk factors. The mechanism via which EBV influences MS risk remains unknown.
Maintenance of natalizumab during the first trimester of pregnancy in active multiple sclerosis
Authors: Demortiere Sarah , Rico Audrey , Maarouf Adil , Boutiere Clémence , Pelletier Jean , Audoin Bertrand
Published: March 2020

Background:

Planning pregnancy in patients with active multiple sclerosis (MS) is highly challenging because treatment withdrawn may be associated with dramatic disease reactivation.

Objective:

To compare two strategies for women with active MS who were planning pregnancy: stopping natalizumab (1) at the end of the first trimester and (2) at conception.

Methods:

Standardized strategy for women with active MS was initiated in our department. Maintenance of natalizumab until the end of first trimester was recommended (“secured first trimester” (SFT)). When patients refused, they were advised to continue until conception (“secured conception” (SC)). Predictors of disease activity during pregnancy were assessed.

Results:

Forty-six pregnancies were prospectively followed (30 with SFT and 16 with SC). One congenital anomaly occurred in the SC group. The proportions of patients with relapse and disability progression during pregnancy were lower in the SFT than in the SC group (3.6% vs 38.5%, p < 0.005 and 3.6% vs 30.8%, p < 0.05, respectively). Predictors of relapse and disability progression during pregnancy were the time when natalizumab was stopped (conception vs end of first trimester) and the number of relapses during the year before natalizumab.

Conclusion:

Maintaining natalizumab during the first trimester may reduce the risk of disease reactivation during pregnancy in patients with active MS.
Antiprejudice norms and ethnic attitudes in preadolescents: A matter of stimulating the “right reasons”
Authors: Jargon Maria , Thijs Jochem
Published: March 2020

The present study examined the effects of antiprejudice norms on children’s ethnic attitudes by taking their antiprejudice motivations into account. In a sample of 767 native Dutch preadolescents we found evidence for both an internal and an external motivation to be nonprejudiced which were, respectively, positively versus negatively related to children’s out-group attitudes. Overall, children’s norm perceptions were linked to more positive ethnic attitudes, and this relation was partly explained by their internal antiprejudice motivation. Some normative aspects were found be less effective (moral rule to be nice and honest) than others (equality message) by stimulating an external motivation rather than undermining it and stimulating an internal one. Distinguishing between different normative sources further showed that parents and peers were more influential than teachers. Our findings underline the importance of including motivations in research on norms and out-group attitudes.
Examining manufacturer concentration metrics in consumer packaged goods
Authors: Tanusondjaja Arry , Dunn Steven , Miari Christopher
Published: March 2020

The research compares three different market concentration metrics (Concentration Ratio, Herfindahl–Hirschman Index, and Gini Coefficient) over the share of revenue (market share) and their application in consumer packaged goods markets. The metrics are further extended into measuring the share of the ownership of brands and stock-keeping units, to provide further insights into the nature of market competition. These metrics are reported across 16 categories between 2010 and 2014 from the United Kingdom. The Concentration Ratio results show an average market share of 88% going to the top 10 manufacturers, despite accounting for 19% of all manufacturers on average. Similarly, Gini Coefficients show large disparities in revenue shares across manufacturers (0.85), while the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index classifies most markets as being moderately concentrated. The research highlights the advantage of observing multiple metrics in measuring market concentration, as a single metric is unlikely to convey the nature of market competition. The results show Concentration Ratio for the top 4 or top 10 to be good proxies for Herfindahl–Hirschman Index, while the top 10% or top 20% market concentration can be used as proxies for Gini Coefficients due to their strong positive correlations. Rather than applying onerous Herfindahl–Hirschman Index and Gini Coefficient calculations and requiring the details for all competing entities as required, the result enables researchers and industry practitioners to diagnose the state of the competition by simply calculating the aggregate market share of the top N and the top N% manufacturers.
Effects of Holothurian Glycosaminoglycan on the Sensitivity of Lung Cancer to Chemotherapy
Authors: Lin Cunzhi , Zhu Xinhong , Jin Qing , Sui Aihua , Li Jinfeng , Shen Liyan
Published: March 2020

Sea cucumber is a kind of food. Holothurian glycosaminoglycan (hGAG) is extracted from the body wall of the sea cucumber. Administration of hGAG and cisplatin (DDP) together to treat lung cancer was investigated. Lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells were cultured and divided into 4 groups: control group, hGAG 100 µg/mL group, DDP 3 µg/mL group, and hGAG 100 µg/mL + DDP 3 µg/mL group. Cell inhibition and apoptosis was evaluated by CCK8 and Hoechst33258 staining. Cell cycle was tested by Annexin V-FITC/PI (propidium iodide) double-staining and flow cytometry. The expression of mRNA and protein of Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, and survivin were detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively. The results showed that hGAG combined with DDP enhanced the inhibitory effect of DDP on A549 lung cells through apoptosis pathway. The mechanism of apoptosis may be related to the reduction of Bcl-2 and survivin, as well as the ascension of Bax and caspase-3. hGAG could promote A549 cell cycle arrest in G1 and G2 phase and improve the DDP chemotherapy effects on A549 cells.