bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Plasma Biomarkers for Causal Association With Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Sharma Pranav , Klarin Derek , Voight Benjamin F. , Tsao Philip S. , Levin Michael G. , Damrauer Scott M.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hundreds of biomarkers for peripheral artery disease (PAD) have been reported in the literature; however, the observational nature of these studies limits causal inference due to the potential of reverse causality and residual confounding. We sought to evaluate the potential causal impact of putative PAD biomarkers identified in human observational studies through genetic causal inference methods.

METHODS:

Putative circulating PAD biomarkers were identified from human observational studies through a comprehensive literature search based on terms related to PAD using PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase. Genetic instruments were generated from publicly available genome-wide association studies of circulating biomarkers. Two-sample Mendelian randomization was used to test the association of genetically determined biomarker levels with PAD using summary statistics from a genome-wide association study of 31 307 individuals with and 211 753 individuals without PAD in the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program and replicated in data from FinnGen comprised of 11 924 individuals with and 288 638 individuals without PAD.

RESULTS:

We identified 204 unique circulating biomarkers for PAD from the observational literature, of which 173 were genetically instrumented using genome-wide association study results. After accounting for multiple testing (false discovery rate, <0.05), 10 of 173 (5.8%) biomarkers had significant associations with PAD. These 10 biomarkers represented categories including plasma lipoprotein regulation, lipid homeostasis, and protein-lipid complex remodeling. Observational literature highlighted different pathways including inflammatory response, negative regulation of multicellular organismal processes, and regulation of response to external stimuli.

CONCLUSIONS:

Integrating human observational studies and genetic causal inference highlights several key pathways in PAD pathophysiology. This work demonstrates that a substantial portion of biomarkers identified in observational studies are not well supported by human genetic evidence and emphasizes the importance of triangulating evidence to understand PAD pathophysiology. Although the identified biomarkers offer insights into atherosclerotic development in the lower limb, their specificity to PAD compared with more widespread atherosclerosis requires further study.
Salt-Sensitive Hypertension and the Kidney
Authors: Nishimoto Mitsuhiro , Griffin Karen A. , Wynne Brandi M. , Fujita Toshiro
Published: March 2024

Salt-sensitive hypertension (SS-HT) is characterized by blood pressure elevation in response to high dietary salt intake and is considered to increase the risk of cardiovascular and renal morbidity. Although the mechanisms responsible for SS-HT are complex, the kidneys are known to play a central role in the development of SS-HT and the salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP). Moreover, several factors influence renal function and SSBP, including the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, sympathetic nervous system, obesity, and aging. A phenotypic characteristic of SSBP is aberrant activation of the renin-angiotensin system and sympathetic nervous system in response to excessive salt intake. SSBP is also accompanied by a blunted increase in renal blood flow after salt loading, resulting in sodium retention and SS-HT. Obesity is associated with inappropriate activation of the aldosterone mineralocorticoid receptor pathway and renal sympathetic nervous system in response to excessive salt, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists and renal denervation attenuate sodium retention and inhibit salt-induced blood pressure elevation in obese dogs and humans. SSBP increases with age, which has been attributed to impaired renal sodium handling and a decline in renal function, even in the absence of kidney disease. Aging-associated changes in renal hemodynamics are accompanied by significant alterations in renal hormone levels and renal sodium handling, resulting in SS-HT. In this review, we focus mainly on the contribution of renal function to the development of SS-HT.
A METHODOLOGICAL LOOK AT THE RECENT HISTORY OF THE SOCIAL POLICY DISCIPLINE
Authors: Yüksel Abdulkadir , Gücenmez Tuğba , Uyanık Yücel
Published: March 2024

This research has been discussed in order to shed light on the recent history of the social policy discipline. In this context, it is aimed to methodologically examine the studies published in the field of social policy in recent years, to reveal their current situations and trends, to contribute to new road maps and social policy literature for researchers. In the research, the document analysis technique, one of the qualitative research method patterns, was used. The scope of the research consists of a total of 226 articles published in the Journal of Social Policy Conferences, between 2011 and 2013. Articles within the scope of the research; Type, method, sample size, sample group, data collection tools, data analysis and keywords will be systematically analyzed. The findings obtained by using percentage and frequency values in the analysis of the data will be presented with tables and figures.
A Systematic Literature Review: Are Students Customers, or not?
Authors: İşlek Mahmut Sami , Kocaman Rıdvan
Published: March 2024

There has been a longstanding debate over whether students are customers. Nevertheless, there is still a complexity about who the students are and their role. This theme-based systematic literature review seeks to enrich the discourse on students through a comprehensive and detailed review of 86 papers from 2006-2022. Our review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the relevant debate, establishes an agenda to encourage research, and exhibits favorable outcomes for practitioners. We found that the role of students has been transformed from a passive audience to an active participant in the co-creation of educational service experience in the long term. Consequently, viewing students as co-creators of value would be more appropriate rather than treating them as customers or service users.
Yeni Medyanın Sürdürülebilirlik Bakış Açısına Göre İncelenmesi: Bibliyometrik Analiz
Authors: Arık Mehmet Arif , Kayakuş Mehmet , Güdekli Ayşad , Çizmeli Derya
Published: March 2024

Medyanın sınırsız insan ihtiyaçlarını gözeterek toplumu devamlı olarak irrasyonel tüketime yönlendirmesi sonucu küresel kaynak ve ihtiyaç dengesi bozulmuş, çevresel ve insani sorunlar gün yüzüne çıkmıştır. Çalışmada, sürdürülebilirlik, medya ve inovasyon ilişkisine yönelik yayınlanan makalelerin kavramsal, entelektüel ve sosyal yapılarını ortaya koymak amaçlanmıştır. Bu bağlamda 2002-2023 yılları arasında Web of Science veri tabanında bulunan ve başlığında “sürdürülebilirlik” “medya” “yeni medya” ve “inovasyon” kelimeleri yer alan 1329 makale bibliyometrik analize tabi tutulmuştur. Analiz sonucu 2017 yılından sonra konuyla ilgili yayınlanan makalelerin sayısında büyük bir artış görülmektedir. Çalışma konusuyla ilgili en çok makale “Çevre Bilimleri” kategorisinde yer almaktadır. Makalelerin çoğunluğu Çin Halk Cumhuriyeti'nde yayınlanmasına karşın en çok atıf alan ülke İngiltere'dir. "Sustainability" (Sürdürülebilirlik), hem en çok yayın yapılan dergi olarak hem de konuyla ilgili çalışmalarda en çok kullanılan kelime olarak öne çıkmıştır.
Gezsen Anadolu’yu” Tanıtım Filminin Kültürel İmgeleri
Authors: Dumanlı Şeyma , Birkon İpek , Köroğlu Ahmet
Published: March 2024

Bu çalışma, “Go Türkiye” resmî sitesinin “YouTube” platformu üzerinden yayımladığı “Gezsen Anadolu'yu” başlıklı tanıtım filminin somut ve somut olmayan kültürel miras unsurlarının göstergebilimsel analiz yöntemi ile çözümlenmesini amaçlamaktadır. Araştırmanın örneklemini bu tanıtım filmi oluştururken amaçlı örnekleme yöntemlerinden ölçüt örnekleme tekniği kullanılmıştır. Göstergebilimsel analiz yöntemi araştırmanın metodolojisinde temel alınmış ve Saussure'nin modeli çerçevesinde gösterge, gösteren ve gösterilen bağlamları analiz edilmiştir. Çalışma sonucunda, tanıtım filminde somut kültürel mirası temsil eden 33 kesit ve somut olmayan kültürel mirası temsil eden 20 kesit belirlenmiştir. Elde edilen göstergelerin analizi neticesinde, Türkiye'nin inanç turizmi ve kültür turizmi gibi turizm türlerine odaklanarak kültürel ve tarihi dokusunu somut kültürel miras olarak yansıttığı, ayrıca geleneksellik, el sanatları, zanaatlar, yöresel ürünler ve gastronomik unsurları bir bütünlük içinde somut olmayan kültürel miras olarak sergilediği tespit edilmiştir.
Findings of Herd Behavior in Borsa Istanbul During Covid-19
Authors: Arlı Osman Emre , Ataş Berkan
Published: March 2024

In cases where investors' emotional and behavioral responses are influenced, mimicking fellow investors leads to the manifestation of herd behavior. This study is dedicated to scrutinizing and contrasting instances of herd behavior within the Borsa Istanbul during the Covid-19 period against those in the pre-pandemic phase. The analysis specifically encompasses the banking, food, transportation, tourism, and technology sectors traded on the Borsa Istanbul, as well as the BIST 30 and BIST 100 indices. The CSAD (cross-section absolute deviation) methodology is employed as the analytical framework. The findings delineate a lack of herd behavior during the pre-pandemic period. However, contrasting this, the pandemic period witnesses the emergence of herd behavior, evident within the BIST 30, BIST 100 indices, and the banking, food, and technology sectors.
A Radar-Based 10-Year Climatology of Convective Snow Events in Central Pennsylvania
Authors: Schneider Karl , Lombardo Kelly , Kumjian Matthew R. , Bowley Kevin
Published: March 2024

Convective snow (CS) presents a significant hazard to motorists and is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities on Pennsylvania roadways. Thus, understanding environmental factors promoting CS formation and organization is critical for providing relevant and accurate information to those impacted. Prior research has been limited, mainly focusing on frontal CS bands often called “snow squalls”; thus, these studies do not account for the diversity of CS organizational modes that is frequently observed, highlighting a need for a robust climatology of broader CS events. To identify such events, a novel, radar-based CS detection algorithm was developed and applied to WSR-88D radar data from 10 cold seasons in central Pennsylvania, during which 159 cases were identified. Distinct convective organization modes were identified: linear (frontal) snow squalls, single cells, multicells, and streamer bands. Each algorithm-flagged radar scan containing CS was manually classified as one of these modes. Interestingly, the most-studied frontal mode only occurred <5% of the time, whereas multicellular modes dominated CS occurrence. Using the times associated with each CS mode, synoptic and local environmental information from model analyses was investigated. Key characteristics of CS environments compared to null cases include a 500-hPa trough in the vicinity, lower-tropospheric conditional instability, and sufficient moisture. Environments favorable for the different CS modes featured statistically significant differences in the 500-hPa trough axis position, surface-based CAPE, and the unstable layer depth, among others. These results provide insights into forecasting CS mode, explicitly presented in a forecasting decision tree.

Significance Statement

Convective snow events such as snow squalls are a leading cause of weather-related deaths on Pennsylvania roads. Research into these events is limited, thus negatively impacting forecast skill. To better understand convective snow event frequency of occurrence, inter- and intra-annual variability, and their supporting environments, we performed a 10-yr radar-based climatology of these events. We report the results of this climatology and on the statistically significant differences in their supporting environments. The latter are used to propose a forecasting framework for convective snow, which may improve the predictability of convective snow in an operational setting.
Spelling Bees
Authors: Boudreau James W. , Kettering Jeremy , Sanders Shane D.
Published: March 2024

In this note, we consider a form of competition in which two contestants face separate sequences of independent trials. The contestant with the longer sequence of successful trials wins. However, since the trials are independent, there may be a form of paradox whereby the loser is able to pass all of the trials in the winner’s sequence, whereas the winner could not have overcome two or more trials in the loser’s sequence. We refer to this as the spelling bee paradox and explore its likelihood in simple settings.

JEL Classification Codes: C46, D74, Z29.
Populist Appeals, Emotions, and Political Mobilization
Authors: Aytaç Selim Erdem , Çarkoğlu Ali , Elçi Ezgi
Published: March 2024

Populist politicians frequently employ anti-establishment appeals in their discourse by targeting an imagined or real power elite. Do such appeals have a mobilizing effect among voters? What role do the emotional responses of voters play in this process? We address these questions using a vignette experiment embedded into a nationally representative survey fielded in Turkey, a country where a populist party has long been in power. Our research design enables us to assess whether voters respond more positively to a populist framing of a call for mobilization on an issue compared to a non-populist framing, and whether their emotional responses act as mediators. We find that populist rhetoric indeed does have a mobilizing effect, though only for a low-cost form of political participation (signing a petition) and only among the constituency of the populist party. Turning to the role of emotions, we find that the populist framing of the issue led voters to report more discontent, despair, and anxiety, and these emotions mediate the positive influence of the populist message on mobilization. Thus, our study contributes to research on populism by highlighting the role of emotions in the mobilizing effect of populist discourse.
Analysis of Temporal Artery Biopsy by Provider Across a Large Multi-State Health Care Network
Authors: Gravenstein Karling , Maury Mikalah , Arya Priya , Liebman Robert
Published: March 2024

Temporal artery biopsy (TAB) is the standard test for diagnosing giant cell arteritis. Our objective was to determine which specialists perform TABs and if there is variation across the United States. We performed a cross-sectional analysis in a multi-state health care system, evaluating differences between observed counts of surgical specialty by region, positive diagnoses by region, and positive diagnoses by specialty. Temporal arterial biopsy was performed on 3825 patients with the proportion of specialties performing TAB differing between regions. Temporal artery biopsy was performed by a significantly higher percentage of general surgeons in the Midwest (53.6%) and less vascular surgeons in the West (30.4%). The percentage of positive diagnoses was higher for vascular surgeons (32.7%). We concluded that TAB is performed by physicians of many specialties with the specialty performing most of these procedures varying by region. There is also a difference in the rate of positive diagnoses that varies with surgical specialty.
Changes in Otitis Media During COVID-19
Authors: Cho Yongmin , Lee Jong-Geun , Ryu Gi Hwan , Song Jae-Jun , Im Gi Jung , Chae Sung-Won
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, various non-pharmaceutical interventions such as individual hygiene practices like hand washing, social distancing, and mandates for the use of masks in public spaces were implemented to reduce the spread of the disease. Otitis media (OM) is a common infectious disease. How the changed environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the prevalence of infectious diseases like OM is not known. This study aimed to investigate how OM prevalence and trends changed during COVID-19 in Korea.

Methods:

OM patient data from 2017 to 2021 were extracted from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database. Patients diagnosed with disease code H66 (suppurative and unspecified otitis media) were selected for analysis. Data on OM prevalence, gender, region, medical institution, and number of ventilating-tube prescriptions were analyzed. All age groups were included, and ages were categorized into 5-year ranges

Results:

The number of patients diagnosed with the OM disease code decreased continuously from 2017 to 2021 (1 598 205, 1 560 178, 1 520 948, 983 701, and 734 901). The average OM prevalence per 1000 persons decreased by 45.0% from 30.2 in 2017 to 2019 to 16.6 in 2020 to 2021. The change of OM prevalence was greater for the 0 to 5 age group than other age groups. The decrease in average prevalence per 1000 persons was greatest in the 0 to 5 age group (48.6% decrease from 358.2 in 2017-2019 to 184.1 in 2020-2021). The impact of environmental changes on ventilation-tube insertion was smaller than on OM prevalence. The average number of ventilating-tube insertions decreased by 28.1% from 27 311 in 2017 to 2019 to 19 650 in 2020 to 2021.

Conclusions:

OM prevalence decreased by 45.0%, and the number of ventilating-tube insertions decreased by 28.1% in Korea during COVID-19.
A revisionist model for treatment-resistant and difficult-to-treat depression
Authors: Parker Gordon
Published: March 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study is to consider limitations to the heuristics ‘treatment-resistant depression’ (TRD) and ‘difficult-to-treat’ depression (DTD) and to offer a revisionist model.

Methods:

A number of limitations to the two constructs are noted, particularly the risk of each positioning clinical depression as an entity and then applying a linear sequencing management model.

Results:

Arguing that clinical depression is heterogenous in nature (with categorical and ‘fuzzy set conditions), in cause and in response to treatment, allows an alternate model for addressing depressive conditions that are not readily responsive to treatment. A skeletal model for proceeding is offered for consideration and development.

Conclusion:

If such a model is accepted, then differing criteria for defining treatment resistance and treatment failure might be generated for differing depressive conditions, and condition-specific sequencing algorithms (embracing drug and non-drug strategies) developed for their management.
Fused SDT/IRT Models for Mixed-Format Exams
Authors: DeCarlo Lawrence T.
Published: March 2024

A psychological framework for different types of items commonly used with mixed-format exams is proposed. A choice model based on signal detection theory (SDT) is used for multiple-choice (MC) items, whereas an item response theory (IRT) model is used for open-ended (OE) items. The SDT and IRT models are shown to share a common conceptualization in terms of latent states of “know/don’t know” at the examinee level. This in turn suggests a way to join or “fuse” the models—through the probability of knowing. A general model that fuses the SDT choice model, for MC items, with a generalized sequential logit model, for OE items, is introduced. Fitting SDT and IRT models simultaneously allows one to examine possible differences in psychological processes across the different types of items, to examine the effects of covariates in both models simultaneously, to allow for relations among the model parameters, and likely offers potential estimation benefits. The utility of the approach is illustrated with MC and OE items from large-scale international exams.
Impact of Pharmacist Involvement in Post-Discharge Emergency Department Culture Review
Authors: Richardson Andrea , Muhammad Sheheryar , McSwain Chelsea , Tran Haijing
Published: March 2024

Background: Many infectious diseases are diagnosed in emergency departments (ED) and patients are prescribed antimicrobial therapy. Results from cultures typically take a few days to become finalized. Following up on these results is necessary when medication changes are indicated due to results that show bacteria are resistant to the prescribed antibiotics. Involving pharmacists in assessing the culture and sensitivity results, and making interventions when needed, is an innovative way to ensure that patients receive appropriate antimicrobial therapy based on the culture and sensitivity data. This study analyzed the impact of pharmacist involvement in the ED’s post-discharge positive culture review process on ED re-visits and hospitalizations. Methods: This single-center, pre- and post-implementation study examined the impact of pharmacist involvement in the post-ED visit culture review process on ED re-visits and hospitalizations. Positive microbiological results included documented growth from urine, skin and soft tissue, throat, blood, or stool cultures. Patients included in the study were of 18 years of age or older and had a positive culture result post ED-discharge. Patients were excluded from the study if they were admitted to the hospital or transferred to another facility. The primary outcomes included ED re-visits within 7 days and hospital readmissions within 30 days for the same condition. The secondary outcomes were percentage of pharmacist interventions accepted and types of pharmacist interventions implemented. Results: A total of 141 patients were included in the study, with 65 in the pre-implementation group and 76 in the post-implementation group. The primary outcome of ED re-visits within 7 days for the same condition occurred in 11 (17%) patients in the pre-implementation group and 5 (7%) patients in the post-implementation group ( P = .0454). The primary outcome of hospitalizations within 30 days for the same condition occurred in 5 (8%) patients in the pre-implementation group and 1 (1%) patient in the post-implementation group ( P = .0137). Seventeen (94%) out of the 18 pharmacist interventions were accepted and implemented. The intervention types implemented were to recommend to: change antibiotic (35%), not initiate antibiotic (24%), initiate antibiotic (24%), and continue antibiotic (18%). Conclusion: Pharmacist involvement in the ED post-discharge positive culture review process showed a decrease in ED re-visits and hospitalizations for the same condition.
Evaluation of the Impact of the Addition of Atypical Antipsychotics to Continuous Infusion Propofol Therapy
Authors: Crocker R. Jake , Dodson Cortney , Reihart Layne
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The administration of sedatives to critically ill patients is a common practice in intensive care units (ICU) and has been associated with negative outcomes. To mitigate this, atypical antipsychotics are utilized as adjunctive therapy. This study aims to review and quantify overall effectiveness of the atypical antipsychotics quetiapine, risperidone, and olanzapine on reduction in the amount of continuous infusion propofol utilized in the ICU. Methods: This was an observational study that took place from February 27, 2021 to December 31, 2022. The primary outcome of this study was the percentage change in average propofol infusion rate (mcg/kg/min) from baseline to the greater than 24 to 48 hours period after atypical antipsychotic initiation. Secondary outcomes included ICU length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, QTc interval monitoring, and continuation of the antipsychotic without a valid indication. Descriptive statistics were utilized for the statistical analysis. Results: A total of 47 patients were included in the study. The average baseline propofol rate was 31 mcg/kg/min, which reduced 8.6% to 28.35 mcg/kg/min over the 0 to 24 hours period, was reduced by 19.4% compared to baseline to a rate of 25 mcg/kg/min during the greater than 24 to 48 hours period, and finally a percent reduction of 54.2% seen during the greater than 48 to 72 hours period to a rate of 14 mcg/kg/min. Conclusions: Patients who received an adjunctive antipsychotic saw resulting propofol rate reductions of 8.6% at 24 hours, 19.4% at 48 hours, and 54.2% at 72 hours. However, research on this topic should not end here, as further investigation with higher-level study design is needed to determine the true impact of these agents for this indication.
Performance analysis of fiber-reinforced polypropylene composite laminates under quasi-static and super-sonic shock loading conditions for impact application
Authors: Ram Khushi , Gupta Mohit , Kartikeya Kartikeya , Khatkar Vikas , Mahajan Puneet , Bhatnagar Naresh
Published: March 2024

In the present research, glass and basalt fiber-reinforced polypropylene composites’ behaviour in quasi-static and dynamic conditions is studied. Composites were fabricated by vacuum assisted Compression molding method. Composites failure under quasi-static tension and compressive conditions was studied along with its failure behaviour under low-velocity impact and super-sonic shock loading under dynamic conditions. The study results showed that basalt fiber-reinforced polypropylene (Basalt/PP) composite’s tensile and compressive strength is higher than glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene (Glass/PP). The Basalt/PP showed no penetration against low velocity impact (LVI) with negligible deformations till 50 J. However, the Glass/PP perforated at 50 J with various failure patterns occurring at back side. The fiber-matrix interface adhesion plays an important role in super-sonic shock loading by absorbing shock wave energy due to ductile nature of polypropylene and the two composites absorbed energy via matrix and fibers failure, no brittle failure of laminates occurred under shock loading.
The legal and medical consequences of child marriage
Authors: Farrukh Affifa , Buttar Hamza , Mayberry John F
Published: March 2024

The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 came into force in England on 27 February 2023 and made both registered and unregistered marriages involving people under 18 illegal in England and Wales. This means that such marriages which take place outside England and Wales will not be recognised and those who organised them, including parents, will have committed a criminal offence.

This review considers issues related to families where such marriages have happened, including their impact on the health of the victim and any resulting children. It touches on religious and societal issues and the need for targeted and appropriate education.
Optimization of terminal area arrival flight sorting based on an improved sparrow search algorithm
Authors: Zhao Weixi , Liang Te
Published: March 2024

At present, airspace congestion and flight delays have become widespread concerns. This study aims to optimize the sequencing of arrival flights in the terminal area of multirunway airports. Considering the constraints of multiple runways, slant intervals and moving flight positions, this article establishes an optimization model for arrival flight sequencing in a multirunway airport terminal area. Accordingly, an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA) is proposed based on Chebyshev chaotic mapping, the golden sine strategy, and the variable neighborhood strategy. Through six basic test functions, the ISSA is compared with particle swarm optimization, the whale optimization algorithm, the genetic algorithm, and other algorithms to verify its superiority. Finally, two sets of instance data from Kunming Changshui Airport were used for experiments. The results show that the total delay times (TDTs) of small-scale flights (number of aircraft: 29) and large-scale flights (number of aircraft: 147) are 55.3% and 20.5% lower, respectively, than those of the first-come-first-served algorithm. The superiority of the ISSA designed in this article is verified, and it can significantly reduce the TDTs of arrival flights. It is suitable for optimizing arrival flights during peak hours at most airports. This approach provides theoretical support for optimizing the sorting of flights in terminal areas.
Yarn-level modeling and simulation of fancy weft-knitted fabric
Authors: Ru Xin , Zheng Shiyi , Peng Laihu , Wang JiaCheng
Published: March 2024

Weft-knitted fabric is formed by interlocking loops, which results in an unstable and easily deformable structure. In particular, fancy weft-knitted fabric exhibits diverse structural variations and uneven distribution, leading to more prominent characteristics of instability and deformation. Achieving the desired pattern effect and dimensions often requires drawing multiple designs. In this work, to obtain the geometric model of fancy fabric, mesh-loop models with movement vectors are established based on the basic structure of four stitch types: plain stitch, tuck, float, and loop transfer. The cubic Catmull–Rom spline curves are used to fit the geometric centerline of the yarn. The movement vectors are used to represent the changes in the position of the key points of the standard loops in the fancy fabric, which are derived from the analysis of the pattern grid. A physical model is established based on the force analysis of the yarn, and the positions of yarn control points are determined by solving the Euler–Lagrange dynamic equations. Through iterative calculations, the deformation effects of the fabric are obtained, enabling the simulation of fancy weft-knitted fabric. The proposed algorithms were implemented using Visual C++. The reliability and accuracy of the simulation method are demonstrated by comparing the contours of the simulation results with the actual samples.
Tackling Persistent, Boundary-Spanning Problems Through Collaborative Innovation: Lessons From the Clean Sweep Initiative in Buffalo, NY
Authors: Robb Katharine , Marcoux Ashley , Dickens Eleanor , de Jong Jorrit
Published: March 2024

To tackle persistent boundary-spanning problems with limited resources, some cities engage in collaborative innovation, combining expertise, effort, and creativity within and outside city hall to overcome limitations of conventional practices and siloed work. This article illustrates how collaborative innovation works in practice by examining specifics of how the Buffalo Clean Sweep Initiative, unique in longevity, scope, and scale, overcame common challenges and managed typical trade-offs. We describe, based on analyses of interviews and focus groups with city staff, community partners, and residents, how problem-solving, making an impact, and learning together helped Buffalo, New York, improve quality-of-life in its poorest neighborhoods.
Getting Students Interested in Psychological Measurement by Experiencing the Barnum Effect
Authors: Gonthier Corentin , Thomassin Noémylle
Published: March 2024

Background: Fake psychological tests tend to be viewed as completely believable (Barnum effect), meaning psychometric properties cannot be judged subjectively. Experiencing this effect first-hand could help get students interested in the science of psychological assessment. Objective: In a blended learning perspective, we created materials to elicit a Barnum effect with a brief online fake test and tested the benefits of this procedure for student engagement. Method: Five cohorts of undergraduate psychology students (total N = 2,269) completed the fake test online prior to their first psychometrics course. We collected single-item ratings of perceived effectiveness for the test, willingness to use it, and course engagement (interest and enthusiasm for the course). We also retrieved grades. Results: Eighty-five percent of students rated the effectiveness of the fake test above the neutral point; 77% were willing to use it as future psychologists. Experiencing the effect was related to significantly increased interest and enthusiasm, and higher grades. Conclusion: Having students experience the Barnum effect for themselves is a useful and effortless approach to get them interested in psychometrics. Teaching Implications: Teachers of introductory courses related to psychological measurement should consider having all students experience the Barnum effect. All materials are provided.
Investigating How High Perceived Economic Inequality Exacerbates Intergroup Competition, Zero-Sum Beliefs, and Perceived Intergroup Prejudice
Authors: Lisnek Jaclyn A. , Caluori Nava , Brown-Iannuzzi Jazmin L. , Oishi Shigehiro
Published: March 2024

Rising economic inequality is associated with more prejudice. Little empirical data, however, investigate how inequality affects individuals’ psychological processing and, in turn, exacerbates perceptions of prejudice in people’s geographic area. We hypothesized that higher perceived economic inequality triggers beliefs that unequal economies are zero-sum and leads to beliefs that people are in competition for limited resources, which may ultimately exacerbate perceived prejudice. Through nine experiments (Studies 1-5 in the manuscript and three additional studies in the Supplement), we provide evidence that higher perceived inequality increases perceived prejudice against a wide range of outgroups. Furthermore, zero-sum beliefs and perceived competition serially mediate this relationship (Studies 2 and 3). In Study 4, we investigate nuance in this hypothesized model by testing whether higher perceived economic inequality exacerbates perceived racial/ethnic prejudice among a large, diverse sample and find a similar pattern of results. Finally (Study 5), we demonstrate that assuaging competition beliefs mitigates perceived prejudice.
Does Conceptual Abstraction Moderate Whether Past Moral Deeds Motivate Consistency or Compensatory Behavior? A Registered Replication and Extension of Conway and Peetz (2012)
Authors: Martuza Jareef , Kim Olivia
Published: March 2024

A long-standing debate in psychology concerns whether doing something good or bad leads to more of the same or the opposite. Conway and Peetz proposed that conceptual abstraction moderates if past moral deeds lead to consistent or compensatory behavior. Although cited 384 times across disciplines, we did not find any direct replications. It was also unclear how increases or decreases from one’s baseline prosociality might underlie the effect. A large-scale experiment ( N = 5,091) in the registered report format tested Conway and Peetz’s original hypothesis. The hypothesized interaction was not replicated: conceptual abstraction did not moderate the effect of recalling moral vs. immoral behavior on prosocial intentions. Our results show that recalling moral behavior led to higher prosocial intentions than recalling either immoral or neutral behavior, irrespective of recalling from the recent or distant past. Thus, the current research found no evidence for compensatory moral behavior, only for positive moral consistency.
Determining materials and communication needs of students with visual impairments in mathematics tests: Case of university entrance exam in Türkiye
Authors: Kirboyun Tipi Sevgi , Sevimli Eyup , Uçuş Hale
Published: March 2024

The study explored the perspectives of students with visual impairments regarding the practices of human readers in the mathematics tests of university entrance exams in Türkiye, focusing on communication difficulties and material preferences. This qualitative study used a case study design. The participants consisted of 20 students who participated in the transition to higher education exam between 2020 and 2022. A demographic survey was conducted first, followed by a semi-structured interview. Thematic coding was used to analyze data to capture the themes that emerged in the study. These themes were materials used in mathematical tests and communication with human readers. The study revealed that the human readers’ verbal and written communication skills in mathematics may affect the test performance of students with visual impairments. The study also highlighted that most students relied on low-tech devices due to the lack of knowledge and access to high-tech assistive technology devices. While they preferred using braille booklets and high-tech assistive technology devices, many students felt uncomfortable with these options due to their unfamiliarity. This research emphasizes the need for comprehensive training for human readers, especially in mathematical communication, to improve the overall test-taking experience for students with visual impairments. It also highlights the importance of providing adequate training in the use of high-tech assistive technology devices. In addition, collaboration between teachers of students with visual impairments and testing agencies can facilitate the development of more accessible test environments, ensuring equal opportunities for those with visual impairments.
Metabolite transport across central nervous system barriers
Authors: Carstens Gesa , Verbeek Marcel M , Rohlwink Ursula K , Figaji Anthony A , te Brake Lindsey , van Laarhoven Arjan
Published: March 2024

Metabolomic analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is used to improve diagnostics and pathophysiological understanding of neurological diseases. Alterations in CSF metabolite levels can partly be attributed to changes in brain metabolism, but relevant transport processes influencing CSF metabolite concentrations should be considered. The entry of molecules including metabolites into the central nervous system (CNS), is tightly controlled by the blood-brain, blood-CSF, and blood-spinal cord barriers, where aquaporins and membrane-bound carrier proteins regulate influx and efflux via passive and active transport processes. This report therefore provides reference for future CSF metabolomic work, by providing a detailed summary of the current knowledge on the location and function of the involved transporters and routing of metabolites from blood to CSF and from CSF to blood.
Butylphthalide combined with donepezil for the treatment of vascular dementia: a meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Puqing , Liu Xiangjuan , Chen Jingwen , Zhang Yi , Chen Jun , Yu Lei , Shou Zhangxuan
Published: March 2024

Objective

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of butylphthalide combined with donepezil versus butylphthalide monotherapy for the treatment of vascular dementia.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials were searched in electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP), Wan Fang, and China Biology Medicine from inception to 29 November 2022. Two reviewers independently screened the papers and extracted data from the included studies. The data were processed using RevMan5.4 statistical software.

Results

Nine randomized controlled trials (n = 1024) were included in this meta-analysis. Regarding the primary outcomes, compared with butylphthalide monotherapy, combined butylphthalide and donepezil treatment exhibited significantly greater total clinical efficacy (relative risk = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [1.17, 1.31]) and did not increase the adverse event rate (relative risk = 1.39, 95% confidence interval [0.91, 2.14]). Regarding the secondary outcomes, the meta-analysis results for the Mini-Mental State Examination, abilities of daily living, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores and the interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and superoxide dismutase blood levels all supported combined butylphthalide and donepezil treatment.

Conclusion

Butylphthalide combined with donepezil may be a better treatment strategy than donepezil alone for the treatment of vascular dementia in clinical practice.
Should atelectasis be considered a pulmonary complication and indicator of poor prognosis in cystic fibrosis?
Authors: Martínez Redondo María , Carpio Segura Carlos , Zamarrón De Lucas Ester , Álvarez-Sala Walther Rodolfo , Prados Sánchez Concepción
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study examined whether bronchoscopy leads to clinicoradiological improvement in cystic fibrosis (CF) and the predictive factors. The study also investigated whether pulmonary atelectasis is a poor prognostic factor in CF.

Methods

This multicenter, case–control, observational, retrospective study included two groups of patients with CF: a case group (patients with persistent atelectasis who were followed-up at least for 2 years) and a control group (patients without atelectasis matched 1:1 by sex and age [±3 years]). We recorded demographic data, lung function test results, pulmonary complications, comorbidities, treatments (including bronchoscopies, surgery and transplantation), and deaths.

Results

Each group included 55 patients (case group: 20 men, mean age 25.4 ± 10.4 years; control group: 20 men, mean age 26.1 ± 11.4 years). Bronchoscopy did not lead to clinicoradiological improvement. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) was more frequent in the case group. Patients in the case group more frequently used inhaled steroids, their pre-atelectasis lung function was statistically worse, and they had more exacerbations during follow-up.

Conclusion

Moderate-to-severe pulmonary disease and ABPA can favor atelectasis. Pulmonary atelectasis can be a poor prognostic factor in CF because it increases exacerbations. Despite our results, we recommend enhancing treatment, including bronchoscopy, to prevent persistent atelectasis.
Investigating Racial and Poverty-Level Disparities Associated with Pedestrian Nighttime Crashes
Authors: Mwende Sia Isaria , Kwigizile Valerian , Oh Jun-Seok , Van Houten Ron
Published: March 2024

Recently, there has been a large increase in fatal pedestrian crashes that occur at night in the United States of America. In the state of Michigan, for the past 11 years (2011–2021), 76% of all fatal pedestrian crashes occurred at night. With the Toward Zero Death national strategy, identifying the presence of disparities by population characteristics in pedestrian nighttime crashes will enable better allocation of resources to the overrepresented segments of the population and enable the implementation of focused countermeasures to improve the safety of everyone. This study, therefore, aims to investigate the racial and poverty status disparities associated with pedestrian nighttime crashes in Michigan. Pedestrian nighttime crashes from 2011 to 2021 were aggregated at a census tract level. Demographic, socioeconomic, and built environment data were included at a census tract level. The negative binomial model was used to identify whether the racial makeup and economic status of census tracts are significantly associated with the increase in pedestrian nighttime crashes. Results show that census tracts where the majority of people are Black are associated with a 20% increase in pedestrian nighttime crashes. Moreover, poor tracts are associated with a 40% increase in pedestrian nighttime crashes. It was revealed that crashes recorded by police officers as “dark unlighted” are concentrated more in poor census tracks. Also, dark unlighted crashes were more concentrated in a census tract where a majority of the residents identify as Black compared with the majority of residents who identify as White. The use of LED lighting is recommended to improve pedestrian visibility at night.
Data-Driven Approach to State of Good Repair: Predicting Rolling Stock Service Life with Machine Learning for State of Good Repair Backlog Reduction and Long-Range Replacement Cost Estimation in Small Urban and Rural Transit Systems
Authors: Mistry Dilip , Hough Jill
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a data-driven approach to address the state of good repair (SGR) in small urban and rural transit systems in the U.S. by predicting the service life of rolling stock vehicles. Achieving and maintaining public transportation rolling stock in SGR is crucial to providing safe and reliable services to riders, particularly for transit agencies utilizing federal grants that mandate asset maintenance at a full level of performance. In this context, an intelligent predictive model is proposed to analyze the transportation rolling stock, determine their backlog and current condition, predict their replacement or rehabilitation needs, and estimate the funding required for future replacements, ensuring SGR. The model utilizes historical data from retired revenue vehicles in the National Transit Database and employs machine learning techniques, specifically random forest regression and gradient boosting regression, to develop the predictive tool. By addressing the backlog of vehicles beyond their service lives and estimating replacement costs, the model provides valuable decision support for effective transit asset management. Transit agencies in small urban and rural transit systems, lacking analytical tools for service life prediction, can greatly benefit from this simple yet powerful predictive model. The approach offers a practical resource to address SGR needs, optimize investment prioritization, and enhance operational efficiency in public transit systems.
Biomechanical Comparison Between Superior Capsular Reconstruction and Lower Trapezius Tendon Transfer in Irreparable Posterosuperior Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Baek Gyuna , Kim Jung Gon , Baek Gyu Rim , Hui Aaron T. , McGarry Michelle H. , Baek Chang Hee , Lee Thay Q.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and lower trapezius tendon transfer (LTT) have recently been used to manage irreparable posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (PSRCTs). There has been a paucity of comparative biomechanical considerations between the 2 procedures.

Purpose:

To compare the glenohumeral stability and biomechanical properties between SCR and LTT in PSRCTs involving the entire infraspinatus tendon region.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested at 0°, 20°, and 40° of shoulder abduction. Maximum internal, external, and total humeral range of motion (ROM), superior translation of the humeral head, and subacromial contact characteristics were compared among 4 conditions: (1) intact rotator cuff, (2) PSRCTs involving the entire infraspinatus tendon region, (3) LTT using Achilles allograft (12 N and 24 N of loading), and (4) SCR using fascia lata allograft.

Results:

Although a decrease in total ROM was noted in LTT with 12 N compared with the tear condition, LTT with both 12 N and 24 N as well as SCR did not restrict total rotational ROM compared with the intact condition. LTT had decreased total ROM compared with tear condition at 20° of abduction ( P = .042), while no significant decrease was confirmed at all abduction angles after SCR. SCR and LTT with 24 N decreased superior translation compared with the PSRCT condition at 0° and 20° of abduction ( P < .037) but not significantly at 40° of abduction, whereas LTT with a 24-N load decreased glenohumeral superior translation at all abduction angles ( P < .039). Both SCR and LTT decreased subacromial contact pressure compared with the tear condition ( P < .014) at all abduction angles. SCR decreased subacromial contact pressure at 0° and 40° of abduction ( P = .019 and P = .048, respectively) compared with LTT with 12 N of loading, while there was no difference between SCR and LTT with 24 N of loading in all abduction angles. SCR increased the contact area compared with the PSRCT condition at all abduction angles ( P < .023), whereas LTT did not increase the contact area.

Conclusion:

SCR and LTT decreased glenohumeral superior translation and contact pressure compared with PSRCT conditions. The LTT was superior to SCR in terms of superior translation of the humeral head at a higher shoulder abduction angle, whereas the SCR showed more advantageous subacromial contact characteristics compared with LTT.

Clinical Relevance:

These biomechanical findings provide insights into these 2 fundamentally different procedures for the treatment of young and active patients with PSRCTs involving the entire infraspinatus tendon region.