bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proof Load Testing Method by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials and Suggestions for Improvement
Authors: de Vries Rein , Lantsoght Eva O. L. , Steenbergen Raphaël D. J. M. , Naaktgeboren Marius
Published: May 2023

Because of the aging of infrastructure, methods are explored by which the reliability of existing bridges and viaducts can be assessed. In cases in which limited information of the structure is available or its condition is of concern, proof load testing may be used to demonstrate sufficient live load carrying capacity. Proof load tests in the U.S.A. are typically performed using the Manual for Bridge Evaluation (MBE) published by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). The proof load is expressed by the regular live load model magnified by the target proof load factor. The level of reliability obtained using the target proof load factor is not explicitly stated in the MBE, but is of particular interest. In this article, relevant background documents are investigated to uncover the underlying calculations, assumptions, and input data. Current challenges in proof load testing are described in which the considerations of time dependence, stop criteria, available information, and system-level assessment are highlighted. Subsequently, improvements to the MBE proof load testing background are suggested. An example calculation using traffic data from the Netherlands shows that the HL93 load model and Eurocode LM1 provide a reasonably constant proof load factor with span length for bending and shear. However, the HS20 load model does not scale well with increasing span length. It is found that the magnitude of the target load as specified through the proof load factor is directly related to the desired level of reliability. Although the MBE proof load testing method is practical, several challenges remain.
Case Studies of Asphalt Pavement Quality Assurance Specifications, Performance-Related Specifications, and Performance-Based Specifications
Authors: Saleh Nooralhuda F. , DeCarlo Katie (Haslett) , Underwood B. Shane , Pine William J. , Huber Gerry , Tran Nam , West Randy C. , Kim Y. Richard
Published: May 2023

Quality assurance (QA) specifications for asphalt pavement construction measure quality characteristics to adjust payments. The measured quality characteristics are assumed to empirically relate to performance. The validity of this assumption, however, has been questioned in recent years; thus, there has been increased interest in finding ways to more directly evaluate the performance of the as-constructed materials. One proposed method to meet this need involves using the Asphalt Mixture Performance Tester (AMPT) and its associated test methods, which measure fundamental material properties that are then used to calculate the fatigue cracking performance index, Sapp, and a rutting strain index (RSI). These indices can be used in performance-related specification (PRS) or performance-based specification (PBS) frameworks to determine the pay adjustments during the construction of asphalt pavement. While PBS requires measured indices, PRS uses index-volumetrics relationships (IVRs) to predict Sapp and RSI based on conventional acceptance quality. Payment can then be based on a percent within limits (PWL) approach. This paper demonstrates how pay adjustments can be made for a paving project in Indiana following three different QA specification frameworks: the current QA specifications framework in the Indiana Department of Transportation, a PRS framework using IVRs, and a PBS framework that employs measured Sapp and RSI. For each framework, the main elements of the specification were identified and determined. The specification limits for Sapp and RSI and weight factors in composite pay factor equations were determined such that the resulting pay factors are comparable to pay factors obtained from the current QA practices.
Numerical Simulation of a Barge Impact on Bridges with Different Configurations of Pile Group Foundations
Authors: Abu-Farsakh Murad , Souri Ahmad , Voyiadjis George
Published: May 2023

Three-dimensional finite element dynamic analyses were conducted to evaluate the effect of barge impact of different speeds on the lateral performance of three pile group (PG) configurations (vertical, battered, mixed) in terms of peak lateral displacement, peak shear force, lateral stiffness of PGs, and contribution of piles and pier columns to the total resisting force. The concrete material was modeled using the Concrete Damaged Plasticity model. The clay behavior was described using the Modified Cam Clay model; while the sand was modeled using the Drucker Prager model. The results showed that the vertical PG had the lowest lateral stiffness; while the battered and mixed PGs had closely larger stiffness, which allowed the development of larger impact force and pile cap displacement in vertical PG as compared to other PGs. The results of shear force showed that the foundation contributed up to 82% of the total lateral force in battered and mixed PGs. The results also showed that in vertical PG, the first row had slightly higher percentage of lateral force compared to other rows; while in battered PG, the load percentage was evenly distributed between rows. A contrast performance was observed for mixed PG. The results of bending moment (BM) showed that the piles in vertical PG had notably higher BM than the piles in other PGs due to larger pile cap displacement. In all PGs, the piles in the edge column had higher BM ratio, with the leading row (L) had the highest BM ratio (69–72%) in all PGs.
Laboratory Evaluation of the Electrical Resistivity and Mechanical Performance of Electrically Conductive Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Marath Ashith , Saidi Ahmed , Ali Ayman , Mehta Yusuf , Elshaer Mohamed , Decarlo Christopher
Published: May 2023

This study aims to evaluate the electrical conductivity and mechanical performance of electrically conductive asphalt (ECA) mixtures to be used in cold regions for deicing applications. In this study, the ECA mixtures were prepared using a combination of two conductive additives (graphite and carbon fibers), three lengths of carbon fibers (3 mm, 6 mm, and 24 mm), and gneiss aggregates with two nominal maximum aggregate sizes (NMAS) (4.75 mm and 9.5 mm). For each mixture, different dosages of conductive additives were selected: (a) 5%, 10%, 15%, and 30% by asphalt volume for graphite, and (b) 0%, 1%, and 2% by asphalt volume for carbon fibers. A multimeter was then used to assess the electrical resistivity of each ECA mixture, while asphalt pavement analyzer and indirect tension cracking tests were performed to evaluate ECA rutting susceptibility and cracking resistance, respectively. The durability of ECA mixtures was also determined at intermediate temperatures using the Cantabro loss test to assess their integrity when carbon fibers are added. Results showed that aggregates with NMAS of 4.75 mm and carbon fibers with a length of 6 mm presented the most improvement in ECA mechanical performance. In addition, ECA mixtures with 30% graphite presented similar electrical resistivity to those prepared with 15% graphite and 2% carbon fiber (6 mm). In respect of mechanical performance, the addition of 2% carbon fiber improved the resistance of ECA mixtures at 15% graphite to both cracking and durability by at least 20%.
Identifying Crisis Response Communities in Online Social Networks for Compound Disasters: The Case of Hurricane Laura and COVID-19
Authors: Momin Khondhaker Al , Kays H M Imran , Sadri Arif Mohaimin
Published: May 2023

Online social networks allow different agencies and the public to interact and share the underlying risks and protective actions during major disasters. This study revealed such crisis communication patterns during Hurricane Laura compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hurricane Laura was one of the strongest (Category 4) hurricanes on record to make landfall in Cameron, Louisiana, U.S. Using an application programming interface (API), this study utilizes large-scale social media data obtained from Twitter through the recently released academic track that provides complete and unbiased observations. The data captured publicly available tweets shared by active Twitter users from the vulnerable areas threatened by Hurricane Laura. Online social networks were based on Twitter’s user influence feature (i.e., mentions or tags) that allows notification of other users while posting a tweet. Using network science theories and advanced community detection algorithms, the study split these networks into 21 components of various size, the largest of which contained eight well-defined communities. Several natural language processing techniques (i.e., word clouds, bigrams, topic modeling) were applied to the tweets shared by the users in these communities to observe their risk-taking or risk-averse behavior during a major compounding crisis. Social media accounts of local news media, radio, universities, and popular sports pages were among those which heavily involved and closely interacted with local residents. In contrast, emergency management and planning units in the area engaged less with the public. The findings of this study provide novel insights into the design of efficient social media communication guidelines to respond better in future disasters.
Frequent Congestion Detection Model Based on Critical Intersection Identification
Authors: Tang Bin , Hu Yao
Published: May 2023

Intersection information in urban transportation networks is critical to the safe and efficient operation of road traffic. The controllability of the road network can be increased by controlling critical intersections during peak traffic periods. On the one hand, based on the improved intra- and inter-level correlation description matrix of time steps, a directed supra-adjacency matrix (DSAM) temporal network model is built to verify the validity of the model using the road network data of urban core areas and compare the results with those obtained from static critical intersection identification. The results show that the DSAM model has a phase continuity feature in ranking the intersection importance, which has richer connotation than the critical intersection identification results based on a single indicator and has better consistency at different time granularity. On the other hand, based on the DSAM model to identify critical intersections of road network, short-term traffic flow prediction is performed with the help of a road network adjacency matrix, and the results show that the Chebyshev diagram convolution neural network (ChebNet) has the best performance. It can be used in the detection of recurrent congestion of urban road networks, and corresponding control measures are made in shorter time steps, which can prevent the possibility of widespread congestion and reduce the blockage of the whole road network. In summary, the model can be used for critical intersection identification and congestion detection in urban road networks.
Systemwide Identification of Signal Retiming Opportunities with Connected Vehicle Data to Reduce Split Failures
Authors: Saldivar-Carranza Enrique D. , Li Howell , Platte Tom , Bullock Darcy M.
Published: May 2023

Road networks are significantly affected by traffic signal operations, which contribute from 5% to 10% of all traffic delay in the U.S.A. It is important for agencies to be able to systematically monitor traffic signal performance and have procedures to identify locations as proactively as possible where the redistribution of green time has the greatest potential of reducing congestion. Currently, Automated Traffic Signal Performance Measures (ATSPMs) require extensive communication networks and detectors on all phases at each intersection to effectively monitor the traffic signal performance for every traffic movement. This study utilizes commercially available connected vehicle (CV) trajectory data to identify overcapacity movements where there is availability of unused green time and no downstream blockage by an adjacent signal. Over 100 intersections, 400,000 trajectories, and 6,800,000 Global Positioning System points are evaluated using this method to prioritize signal retiming opportunities in a proposed Relative Performance Diagram (RPD) by assessing split failures and downstream blockage of all traffic movements. Out of the intersections identified as having opportunities for operational improvements, three were selected for retiming. A post-retiming review of the traffic signal performance measures showed up to 30% reductions in split failures, 53 s/veh reductions in control delay, and 21% increase in arrivals on green at the benefited movements. The techniques easily scale to any intersection where CV data is available without the need for vehicle detection or communication technology.
Greenhouse gas mitigation scenarios in the solid waste sector for compliance with the Brazilian NDC: Case study of the Recife metropolitan area, Brazil
Authors: Gama Ana Maria Cardoso de Freitas , Jucá José Fernando Thomé , Firmo Alessandra Barbosa Lee
Published: May 2023

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that the waste sector is a potential emitter of methane gas (CH4), which has a greenhouse effect up to 28 times greater than that of carbon dioxide (CO2). The management of municipal solid waste (MSW) generates greenhouse gases (GHG) directly through emissions from the process itself as well as indirectly through transportation and energy consumption. The objective of this study was to evaluate the GHG emissions contributed by the waste sector in the Recife metropolitan region (RMR) and to define mitigation scenarios to comply with the Brazilian Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), a result of the Paris Agreement. To achieve this, an exploratory study was carried out, including a literature review, collection of data, estimation of emissions using the IPCC model (2006), and comparison between the values assumed by the country in 2015 and those estimated in the adopted mitigation scenarios. The RMR is composed of 15 municipalities, has an area of 3,216,262 km2 and a population of 4,054,866 inhabitants (2018), generating approximality 1.4 million t-year of MSW. It was estimated that, in the period from 2006 to 2018, 25.4 million tCO2e were emitted. The comparative analysis between the absolute values defined in the Brazilian NDC and the results from the mitigation scenarios showed that approximately 36 million tCO2e could be avoided through the disposal of MSW in the RMR, equivalent to a 52% reduction in emissions estimated for 2030, a percentage greater than the 47% reduction assumed in the Paris Agreement.
Dimension synthesis of a 2T2R curved layer FDM 3D printer
Authors: Zhao Donghua , Han Youcheng , Zhu Gaohan , Guo Weizhong
Published: May 2023

3D printing or Additive Manufacturing (AM) is significant in various applications. The authors’ previous research indicates that higher-degree-of-freedom (DOF) 3D printers have the potential for curved layer printing and multi-direction AM. Hence, this paper focuses on designing a novel 2T2R FDM 3D printer. Performance-chart-based design methodology (PCbDM) has been used for multiple parameters optimization problems due to its reliability, globality, and intuition. While its limitation is the number of optimization parameters less than four. The printer’s print head is attached to a planar parallel 1T1R mechanism (4R1P, 3R1P, and passive P). Objectives and requirements require the print head to move over a more considerable distance with a constant swing range and proper pressure angle. So, the 4R1P five-bar (virtual double-rocker, crank-rocker, and rocker-crank) has been investigated to facilitate PCbDM. Meanwhile, one DOF remote center of motion (RCM) mechanism has been integrated for decoupling motion control. Finally, the selected parameters are verified by comparing the numerical and simulation results and experiments. Besides, this novel 3D printer’s initial feasibility of flat and curved layer printing is studied with several printed parts to give qualitative analyses. This early-stage work generally intends to investigate the dimension synthesis and show the resulting 2T2R-type rotary 3D printer’s initial feasibility for curved printing. The research can help people understand how to carry out the dimension synthesis of 4R1P and a novel mechanism with multi-chain with the help of Grashof criteria to reduce the design space dimensionality.
In the aftermath of globalization: Antiglobalizing and deglobalizing forms of subjectivity
Authors: Teo Thomas
Published: May 2023

After explaining the meaning of mentality, sources of globalization are discussed. Globalization, and antiglobalizing and deglobalizing mentalities, are understood as grounded in the historical, material, and concrete discursive and practical experiences of individuals. Globalization is divided into political-economic, cosmopolitan, and internationalist streams corresponding to historical trends developed into the 20th and 21st centuries, illustrating how contradictory projects of globalization set the stage for conflicting mentalities. Both antiglobalizing and deglobalizing forms of subjectivity are understood idealtypically as mentalities that resist neoliberal globalization. While antiglobalizing mentalities challenge the political-economic practices of globalization, deglobalizing mentalities reject cosmopolitan and internationalist projects, and are based on attribution mistakes, which can develop into nationalist, supremacist, and fascist subjectivities. Given the extent of global problems, the case for an internationalist form of subjectivity is made. The relevance of these reflections for psychology is addressed.
Thirty day low-dose versus regular-dose aspirin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in primary total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Duke Alexander J. , Bowen Stephen , Baig Samir , Cohen Dorian , Komatsu David E , Nicholson James
Published: May 2023

Background

The optimal dosing of aspirin (ASA) monotherapy for prophylaxis after total joint arthroplasty is debatable. The objective of this study was to compare two ASA regimens with regards to symptomatic deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), bleeding, and infection 90 days after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

We retrospectively identified 625 primary THA and TKA surgeries in 483 patients who received ASA for 4 weeks post-op. 301 patients received 325 mg once daily (QD) and 324 patients received 81 mg twice daily (BID). Patients were excluded if they were minors, had a prior venous thromboembolism (VTE), had ASA allergy, or received other VTE prophylaxis drugs.

Results

There was a significant difference in rate of bleeding and suture reactions between the two groups. Bleeding was 7.6% for 325 mg QD and 2.5% for 81 mg BID ( p = .0029 Χ2, p = .004 on multivariate logistic regression analysis). Suture reactions were 3.3% for 325 mg QD and 1.2% for 81 mg BID ( p = .010 Χ2, p = .027 on multivariate logistic regression analysis). Rates of VTE, symptomatic DVT, and PE were not significantly different. The incidence of VTE was 2.7% for 325 mg QD and 1.5% for 81 mg BID ( p = .4056). Symptomatic DVT rates were 1.6% for 325 mg QD and 0.9% for 81 mg BID ( p = .4139). Deep infection was 1.0% for 325 mg QD and 0.31% for 81 mg BID ( p = .3564).

Conclusion

Low-dose ASA in patients with limited comorbidities undergoing primary THA and TKA is associated with significant lower rates of bleeding and suture reactions than high dose ASA. Low-dose ASA was not inferior to higher dose ASA for the prevention of VTE, wound complications, and infection 90 days postoperatively.
Mite non-reproduction, recapping behavior, and hygienic behavior (freeze-kill method) linked to Varroa destructor infestation levels in selected Apis mellifera colonies
Authors: Morin Marie-Lou , Giovenazzo Pierre
Published: May 2023

The genetic selection of honey bees ( Apis mellifera) possessing specific social hygienic behaviors offers the beekeeping industry the possibility of controlling the Varroa destructor parasite and thus reducing its dependence on acaricides. However, the links between these behavioral traits are not yet well defined, which limits genetic progress in breeding programs. We measured the following behavioral varroa resistance traits: freeze-kill brood (FKB) and pin-kill brood (PKB) assays, varroa-sensitive hygiene (VSH), pupae removal, mite non-reproduction (MNR), and recapping activity. We found 2 negative and significant relationships: 1) between the recapping of cells infested with varroa and the total number of recapped cells, and 2) between the recapping of cells infested with varroa and VSH. We also selected the best predictive model of varroa infestation levels using the “step-wise” approach based on the Akaike information criterion. Our model revealed that MNR and FKB were significantly related to the varroa population levels, with a negative relationship; recapping was significantly related to mite infestation levels, with a positive relationship. Thus, a higher MNR or FKB score was linked to lower levels of mite infestation in colonies on August 14 (prior to fall infestation treatments); a higher recapping activity was linked to a higher level of mite infestation. Recapping behavior could be a useful trait to aid the selection of varroa-resistant bee lineages.
Factor Structure and Measurement Invariance of the Suicide Status Form-IV
Authors: Oakey-Frost Nicolas , Divers Ross , Moscardini Emma H. , Pardue-Bourgeois Sarah , Gerner Jessica , Robinson Anthony , Breaux Eathan , Crapanzano Kathleen A. , Calamia Matthew , Jobes David A. , Tucker Raymond P.
Published: May 2023

The Suicide Status Form-IV (SSF-IV) is the measure used in the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS). The SSF-IV Core Assessment measures various domains of suicide risk. Previous studies established a two-factor solution in small, homogeneous samples; no investigations have assessed measurement invariance. The current investigation sought to replicate previous factor analyses and used measurement invariance to identify differences in the Core Assessment by race and gender. Adults ( N = 731) were referred for a CAMS consultation after exhibiting risk for suicide. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated good fit for both one- and two-factor solutions while the two-factor solution is potentially redundant. Configural, metric, and scalar invariance held across race and gender. Ordinal logistic regression models indicated that neither race nor gender significantly moderated the relationship between the Core Assessment total score and clinical outcomes. Findings support a measurement invariant, one-factor solution for the SSF-IV Core Assessment.
Activity-Dependent Synapse Refinement: From Mechanisms to Molecules
Authors: Nagappan-Chettiar Sivapratha , Burbridge Timothy J. , Umemori Hisashi
Published: May 2023

The refinement of immature neuronal networks into efficient mature ones is critical to nervous system development and function. This process of synapse refinement is driven by the neuronal activity–dependent competition of converging synaptic inputs, resulting in the elimination of weak inputs and the stabilization of strong ones. Neuronal activity, whether in the form of spontaneous activity or experience-evoked activity, is known to drive synapse refinement in numerous brain regions. More recent studies are now revealing the manner and mechanisms by which neuronal activity is detected and converted into molecular signals that appropriately regulate the elimination of weaker synapses and stabilization of stronger ones. Here, we highlight how spontaneous activity and evoked activity instruct neuronal activity–dependent competition during synapse refinement. We then focus on how neuronal activity is transformed into the molecular cues that determine and execute synapse refinement. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying synapse refinement can lead to novel therapeutic strategies in neuropsychiatric diseases characterized by aberrant synaptic function.
Assessment of Anticoagulant Initiation in Patients With New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation During Emergency Department Visit
Authors: Habeeb Ehsan , Papadopoulos Themio , Lewin Andrea R. , Knowles Danielle
Published: May 2023

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) have an increased risk of stroke and systemic thromboembolism. Diagnosis of AF is commonly encountered in the emergency department (ED). The purpose of this study was to assess the number of patients with new-onset AF appropriately initiated on oral anticoagulation (AC) during their ED encounter. This retrospective analysis included patients discharged from the ED from July 2016 to July 2021 with a new diagnosis of AF. Patients were excluded if they were on AC before admission. The major endpoint was to identify the percentage of patients discharged from the ED without initiating AC. Minor endpoints included the average CHA2DS2-VASc scores and the reason for not initiating AC. A total of 380 patients were included in the final analysis. Of the 245 patients found to be indicated for AC, only 131 patients (53.5%) were initiated on AC and 114 patients (46.5%) were discharged without initiating AC. Almost half of the patients who presented to the ED with a new diagnosis of AF and indicated for AC were discharged without AC.
Haecceity Altercation: Thisness as Pedagogy
Authors: Clarke David A. G.
Published: May 2023

I write into the haecceity of recent events in and around my teaching in environmental education to explore the concept of thisness as pedagogy.
Graves’ Disease in Children: An Update
Authors: Metwalley Kotb Abbass , Farghaly Hekma Saad
Published: May 2023

Graves’ disease (GD) is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in children. A common GD symptom is a goiter. The usual biochemical profile in children with GD is a decreased thyroid hormone stimulating hormone (TSH) level and high free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) concentrations. The presence of thyroid receptor antibodies (TRAb) is the most important specific immunological sign for diagnosing GD. The treatment choices for pediatric GD are anti-thyroid drugs (ATDs), radioiodine, and thyroidectomy, but the risks and benefits of each modality are different. Management recommendations include the first-line use of a prolonged course of ATDs for at least 3 years and potentially 5 years or more. Rituximab and Teprotumumab are new novel alternative medications for the treatment of adult patients with GD and Graves’ orbitopathy respectively, but evidence of the efficacy and safety of these drugs in pediatric patients with GD is lacking.
Homo narrans: A transdisciplinary reading of Ken Plummer’s narrative sociology
Authors: Babirye Rebecca , Farrer James
Published: May 2023

The most significant and lasting contributions of Ken Plummer to the sociology of sexuality have been his work on sexual storytelling. Best represented in Plummer’s 1995 book Telling Sexual Stories: Power, Change and Social Worlds, this approach to sexuality made two key points. One is that sexual storytelling is fundamental to the formation of individual sexual identities and a process of sexual self-discovery. The second is that sexual storytelling is a key social process in a broader sexual politics and struggles for “intimate citizenship.” Plummer’s work has significance, however, far beyond studies a simple model of sexual identity formation. Building upon a review of the research literature citing Plummer as well our own research, this essay explores three dimensions of Plummer’s narrative sociology that include but also take us beyond sexuality studies. One is Plummer’s contribution to the concept of “storytelling” as anti-foundationalist social ontology practice. The second is narrative sociology as humanistic methodology. The third is the significance of the narrative method for a dialogic pedagogy, not only in teaching about sexuality but also in other areas of social life.
Group-based emotion processes generalize across group exemplars and types
Authors: Mackie Diane M. , Smith Eliot R. , Banerji Ishani , Munasinghe Anudhi
Published: May 2023

We tested three hypotheses derived from intergroup emotions theory: that group-based emotions, emotions felt as a member of a group, (1) are influenced by group norms, (2) especially for highly identified group members, and (3) are relatively more positive for highly identified members. Hypothesis 4 tested the prediction that these self-categorization, normative influence, and identification processes hold across memberships in exemplars of intimacy, task, and social category groups, which differ from one another in structural and functional characteristics. Two studies using three different samples found strong consistent support for Hypotheses 1 and 3, and only partial support for Hypothesis 2 (high identification increased the power of group norms on group-based emotions about only negative events). These findings held across multiple exemplars of the three group types, regardless of whether group-based emotions were targeted or untargeted, and regardless of whether emotion norms were empirically derived or based on group members’ perceptions.
Greening self-government? Incorporation of environmental justifications into sub-state nationalist claim making in Spain
Authors: Kerr Stephanie
Published: May 2023

Regional nationalism in Spain – particularly those movements in Catalonia and the Basque Country – have been characterized at the parliamentary level by political parties from both the traditional left and right of the political spectrum. While calls for greater autonomy and even secession are made from both ends of that spectrum, the framings of their calls for self-government vary in content and scope. Since the turn into the 21st century, sub-state nationalist parties of the left - those more typically associated with a prioritization of environmental concerns - in both regions have taken an increased share of the seats in their respective parliaments. Over the same period, climate change has increasingly moved to the front of the list of the concerns of European citizens. This paper investigates the degree to which key regional nationalists of the left have moved to incorporate environmental and climate change concerns into their claim making, narrative, and framings, highlighting both regional, and governance level comparative dynamics.
Living with Dementia in Aotearoa (LiDiA): A Feasibility Study for a Dementia Prevalence Study in Māori and Non-Māori Living in New Zealand
Authors: Martinez-Ruiz Adrian , Yates Susan , Cheung Gary , Dudley Makarena , Krishnamurthi Rita , Fa’alau Fuafiva , Roberts Mary , Taufa Seini , Rivera Rodriguez Claudia , Kerse Ngaire , Cullum Sarah
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Recent estimations have projected a threefold increase in dementia prevalence in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) by 2050, particularly in Maori and Pacific peoples. However, to date, there are no national data on dementia prevalence, and overseas data are used to estimate the NZ dementia statistics. The aim of this feasibility study was to prepare the groundwork for the first full-scale NZ dementia prevalence study that is representative of Māori, European, Pacific and Asian peoples living in NZ.

Methods

The main feasibility issues were: (i) Sampling to ensure adequate community representation from the included ethnic groups, (ii) Preparing a workforce to conduct the fieldwork and developing quality control, (iii) Raising awareness of the study in the communities (iv) Maximizing recruitment by door-knocking, (v) Retaining those we have recruited to the study and (vi) Acceptability of study recruitment and assessment using adapted versions of the 10/66 dementia protocol in different ethnic groups living in South Auckland.

Results

We found that a probability sampling strategy using NZ Census data was reasonably accurate and all ethnic groups were sampled effectively. We demonstrated that we were able to train up a multi-ethnic workforce consisting of lay interviewers who were able to administer the 10/66 dementia protocol in community settings. The response rate (224/297, 75.5%) at the door-knocking stage was good but attrition at subsequent stages was high and only 75/297 (25.2%) received the full interview.

Conclusions

Our study showed that it would be feasible to conduct a population-based dementia prevalence study using the 10/66 dementia protocol in Māori, European and Asian communities living in NZ, utilizing a qualified, skilled research team representative of the families participating in the study. The study has demonstrated that for recruitment and interviewing in Pacific communities a different but culturally appropriate approach is required.
Parental self-efficacy in relation to family characteristics
Authors: Gessulat Juliane , Oppermann Elisa , Cohen Franziska , Anders Yvonne
Published: May 2023

Parental self-efficacy (PSE) is an essential predictor of parenting practices and child development. The content-specificity of PSE is not well understood: Previous studies are based on either measure of general parental self-efficacy or task-specific parental self-efficacy but not measures of both constructs. Thus, we do not know how both constructs are related. With data from the “AQuaFam” study, we compared four-factor models to investigate the structure of PSE. It was a priority whether (1) task-specific and general PSE could be assessed separately or (2) be mapped in a hierarchical model with task-specific PSE factors and a superordinate factor of general PSE. A Chi-square test shows no significant model improvement, which indicates general and task-specific PSE being separate dimensions. US studies suggest that low-income parents, migrants, or parents with a lower educational status experience lower PSE. To adequately support these parents, we need to know whether differences according to families’ background characteristics occur in task-specific and general PSE beliefs. We tested general PSE and PSE in four parenting tasks for differences according to families’ background characteristics. Parents with a university degree they were self-efficacious in communicating responsible media use than parents without a university degree. Parents with a non-German family language they were self-efficacious in communicating a responsible media use, caring for a sick child, and in their general PSE compared to parents with German as a family language. The results of the group differences are discussed in the context of how to support different parent groups.
When Advocates Become Adjudicators: Tracing the Effects of Prosecutorial and Public Defense Experience on Judicial Decision Making
Authors: Miller Banks , Curry Brett
Published: May 2023

We assess the influence professional background – specifically, having been a prosecutor or a public defender – exerts on decision making by federal district court judges. Focusing on search and seizure cases, we analyze nearly 1500 motions to suppress evidence from 2000 to 2022. In addition to controlling for judicial ideology and a judge’s prior experience as a prosecutor or public defender, we utilize matching to address endogeneity concerns related to one’s ability to self-select into one of these positions—which may itself be influenced by that individual’s ideological predispositions. We find that having been a former prosecutor, as well as the length of time that service spans, makes a judge significantly more likely to rule against a motion to suppress. Former public defenders are significantly more likely to grant that suppression motion, though their propensity to do so is not affected by the length of time served in that capacity.
Retrograde Trans-Amputation Embolectomy of Common, Superficial and Deep Femoral Arteries for Inflow Revascularisation During Above-Knee Amputation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Soon Joel Jia Yi , Lim Darryl
Published: May 2023

Background

Primary above-knee amputation (AKA) may at times be the only option for unsalvageable acute lower limb ischemia. However, occlusion of the femoral arteries may result in poor inflow and contribute to wound complications such as stump gangrene and sepsis. Previously attempted inflow revascularisation techniques include surgical bypass and percutaneous angioplasty and/or stenting.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 77-year-old lady with unsalvageable acute right lower limb ischemia secondary to cardioembolic occlusion of the common (CFA), superficial (SFA) and deep (PFA) femoral arteries. We performed a primary AKA with inflow revascularisation using a novel surgical technique involving endovascular retrograde embolectomy of the CFA, SFA and PFA via the SFA stump. The patient made an uneventful recovery without any wound complications. Detailed description of the procedure is followed by a discussion of the literature on inflow revascularisation in the treatment and prevention of stump ischemia.
Research on intelligent recognition of trouser silhouettes based on label optimization
Authors: Jiang Xuewei , Chen Ziling , Chi Cheng , Sha Sha , Zhang Jun
Published: May 2023

With the development of online shopping platforms, consumers and designers need to choose from a large number of garments when shopping or designing. Quick identification of clothing products can effectively improve the efficiency of designers’ and consumers’ experience. Therefore, this paper used DeepLabV3+ combined with deep separable convolution to improve the network computation speed. To address the problem of low recognition rate of H-shaped silhouette in semantic segmentation, the fuzzy trouser silhouette samples are further analyzed. The trouser silhouette was redefined according to the characteristics of pants, and the dataset labels were optimized with a trouser silhouette classification method. It was found that the accuracy and efficiency of trouser silhouette recognition were significantly improved. The indicators of recall rate, IoU and PA of H silhouette is improved by 6%, 5%, and 1% respectively. After label optimization, the classification prediction accuracy of silhouette V is 100%, the recall of silhouette V is 97%, and the recall of silhouette O is 96%.
The Question Cube Re-imagined – A 5-Dimensional Model for Cultivating Coaches’ Capacity for Curious Inquiry in Health Behaviour Change
Authors: Matthews Simon Metchette
Published: May 2023

In a lifestyle medicine context, competent health coaching requires the development of skills in inquiry. While open inquiry is emphasised, there is a broad range of inquiry types which can elicit narrative responses from a client. In the 1990s, the ‘Question Cube’ was conceptualised as a means of teaching therapy students ways to ask insightful questions. The elements of this model were: type of inquiry, subject and orientation. This article updates the Question Cube model to include the original 3 parameters with the addition of tense and mood. By learning the concepts of inquiry formation, students of health coaching are more able to propose thoughtful and insightful inquiries to their clients.
Numerical modeling for evaluation of the thermal resistance of reflective airspaces with and without defects
Authors: Saber Hamed H , Yarbrough David W
Published: May 2023

The thermal resistances (R-values) of airspaces depends on the emittance of all surfaces around an airspace, dimensions, heat-flow direction, and the temperatures of the bounding surfaces. Assessing the energy performance of building envelope components and fenestration systems requires accurate results for the R-values of any enclosed spaces. The evaluation of reflective insulation R-values has evolved to include use of computational fluid dynamics and surface-to-surface radiation to quantify convective and radiative contributions to the heat transfer across airspaces of all types. This paper compares an advanced and validated model for calculating enclosed airspace R-values with the widely-used ISO 6946 and airspace R-values in the ASHRAE Handbook-Fundamentals. The impact of construction and installation defects on the thermal performance of reflective insulation has not been previously evaluated. In this research, an advanced model was used to evaluate a construction defect and dimensional aspect ratios that one-dimensional methods do not address. Imperfect installation and defects that result in air movement into or through a reflective insulation assembly reduces the thermal resistance of the assembly. Additionally, the amount of thermal resistance reduction depends on the amount and temperature of invasive air or the size of internal defects that allows natural convection inside the reflective airspace. In this study, these performance issues are evaluated quantitatively using computer simulation techniques. The differences in results obtained using methods that are currently being used to evaluate the R-value and the advantages of the advanced method for evaluating the reflective insulation performance for different applications are discussed. For the case considered in this study, the results showed that the failure to achieve parallel surfaces results in less than a 5% decrease in thermal resistance. Also, the results showed that internal air gaps between airspaces result in negligible loss in R-value unless air gaps that allow circulation between airspaces are created.
Petri nets-based method for operational risk analysis in supply chains based on timeliness and recovery time
Authors: Skorupski Jacek , Tubis Agnieszka A. , Werbińska-Wojciechowska Sylwia , Wróblewski Adam
Published: May 2023

Recently, supply chain risk management has been attracting growing attention. Therefore, various methods, tools, and practices have been developed in this area. However, they usually are focused on the direct consequences of disruptions occurring in supply chains. Thus, the purpose of this article is to present an operational risk analysis method for supply chains, in which consequences of an adverse event occurrence are assessed based on two measures: (1) the direct consequences (disruption) of supply processes to customers, and (2) recovery time for a supply system. Based on research findings, we introduced a Petri nets model for mapping material flows along a supply chain. We implement the proposed analysis method in a selected company from the automotive industry. The performed final discussion confirmed the relevance of distinguishing the direct and indirect consequences of the risk assessment. It was also suggested that the results’ interpretation could be two-fold, which may be necessary for appropriate risk management tool selection.
The limits of ‘professionalisation from above’: On the ‘re-professionalisation’ of street-level policing in England
Authors: Bacon Clifford , Hebenton Bill , McCann Leo
Published: May 2023

The occupation of policing is in crisis. Criticism of police failings has created intense pressure for the traditional ‘occupational closure’ model of policing as a craft to be replaced by new ‘professional’ models associated with ‘evidence-based policing’, harm reduction, risk management and vulnerability. Various change initiatives have amounted to the ‘re-professionalisation’ of policing, whereby previous models of police professionalism based on craft, discretion and judgement have been abandoned and replaced by new protocols, guidelines and enhanced external scrutiny. This article explores how these changes are interpreted by operational police officers, using qualitative interviews and ethnographic fieldwork to explore officers’ application and understanding of the new requirements. Whereas some literature argues that ‘police culture’ remains largely unchanged, our data illustrate how officers’ daily routines are in a state of enforced flux. While there was some limited support for the rationale for change, officers were highly critical of the practical implementation of policing vulnerability, were sceptical of the new doctrine of ‘professionalism’, and resentful of new managerial controls and priorities. This does not amount to the stubborn persistence of a ‘reform-proof’ police culture. Rather, officers described substantial change to the everyday culture and practice of policing, in ways they regard as confused, self-defeating and unworkable. We argue that professionalisation imposed ‘from above’ via dogmatic managerial logic can have detrimental implications for occupations and the public they serve.
Diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasonography in pelvic masses with bowel involvement
Authors: She Yu Mo , Ge Nan
Published: May 2023

Benign and malignant pelvic masses with or without intestinal invasion are common in women of childbearing age. Patients may have nonspecific symptoms and signs or experience no symptoms. Laparoscopic resection of pelvic masses is currently the mainstream treatment; therefore, accurate preoperative evaluation is not only essential for patients suspected of having intestinal invasion, but also extremely important for the selection of follow-up treatment. Procedures, including endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), pelvic magnetic resonance imaging, abdominal computed tomography, vaginal ultrasonography, barium enema, and colonoscopy, aid in determining the presence, depth, and histology of the disease. In particular, the wide application and continuous developments in EUS techniques have improved the diagnostic accuracy for intestinal subepithelial and peripheral organ lesions. This article reviewed the clinical value of EUS in the diagnosis of benign and malignant pelvic masses with bowel involvement.
Environmental and Mobility Strategies During Early COVID-19: Insights From an Empirical Study Focusing on Park Visitations in El Paso, TX
Authors: Zhong Sinan , Lee Chanam , Bian Jiahe , Towne Samuel D. , Lee Hanwool , Song Yang , Li Wei , Ory Marcia G.
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

We explored the importance of environmental and mobility strategies during early COVID-19 by age and ethnicity and investigated predictors of park visitations considering the COVID-19 impacts.

Background:

Parks are safe and accessible venues to stay active and reduce social isolation, which is especially important considering COVID-19 and the associated lockdowns.

Methods:

We analyzed online survey data from 683 residents (collected July 2020) of El Paso, TX, and objective measures of neighborhood park characteristics. Chi-square tests and mixed-effects logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the environmental/mobility strategies, personal and environmental factors, and park visitations, considering the COVID-19 impacts.

Results:

The percentage of those who visited (1+ times/week) parks or trails/paths in the neighborhood dropped from 41.7% to 19.5% since the start of COVID-19 ( OR = 0.015, p < .001). Before COVID-19, middle-aged and older adults were less likely to visit parks than younger adults, while this difference became insignificant during early COVID-19. Hispanic adults were more likely to visit parks than non-Hispanics both before and during early COVID-19. Positive environmental predictors of park visitations included park availability in the neighborhood, proximity to the closest park, seeing people being physically active in the neighborhood, and neighborhood aesthetics.

Conclusions:

Proximately located parks, trails, and paths well integrated into residential communities, and high aesthetic quality of the neighborhood are the potential features of pandemic-resilient communities and should be considered an important national priority to maintain and promote the health and well-being of the population, especially during pandemics like COVID-19.