bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observed Subcloud-Layer Moisture and Heat Budgets in the Trades
Authors: Albright Anna Lea , Bony Sandrine , Stevens Bjorn , Vogel Raphaela
Published: May 2022

The trade wind subcloud layer is an important structural component of the atmosphere. Its thermodynamic variability has long been characterized using simple frameworks, of which mixed-layer theory is the simplest kind. Past studies qualitatively support such a description, yet the adequacy of mixed-layer theory as a quantitative description has not been tested. Here we use observations collected during the Elucidating the Role of Clouds–Circulation Coupling in Climate (EUREC4A) field campaign to test this framework and evaluate our understanding of the trade wind subcloud layer. We find evidence for a transition layer separating the mixed-layer and subcloud-layer tops. The presence of such a finitely thick transition layer with vertical gradients complicates the application of mixed-layer theory, which assumes an abrupt gradient, or “jump” at the subcloud-layer top. This ambiguity introduces effective parameters and motivates their estimation through a Bayesian methodology. Results from this Bayesian inversion further reflect a finite-depth entrainment zone. We find that subcloud-layer moisture and heat budgets close for synoptic variability and a monthly campaign mean, yielding a campaign-mean residual of 3.6 W m−2 for moisture and 2.9 W m−2 for heat. Surface wind speed variability influences the subcloud-layer depth and fluxes, yet thermodynamic variability above the subcloud-layer top emerges as the primary control on subcloud-layer moisture and heat variability. Given that this simple theoretical framework can explain observed variability, it offers an appealing framework for evaluating larger-scale models that must parameterize the processes regulating this fundamental part of the atmosphere.
An Analysis of Tropical Cyclone Vortex and Convective Characteristics in Relation to Storm Intensity Using a Novel Airborne Doppler Radar Database
Authors: Fischer Michael S. , Reasor Paul D. , Rogers Robert F. , Gamache John F.
Published: May 2022

This analysis introduces a novel airborne Doppler radar database, referred to as the Tropical Cyclone Radar Archive of Doppler Analyses with Re-centering (TC-RADAR). TC-RADAR comprises over 900 analyses from 273 flights into TCs in the North Atlantic, eastern North Pacific, and central North Pacific basins between 1997 and 2020. This database contains abundant sampling across a wide range of TC intensities, which facilitated a comprehensive observational analysis on how the three-dimensional, kinematic TC inner-core structure is related to TC intensity. To examine the storm-relative TC structure, we implemented a novel TC center-finding algorithm. Here, we show that TCs below hurricane intensity tend to have monopolar radial profiles of vorticity and a wide range of vortex tilt magnitudes. As TC intensity increases, vorticity becomes maximized within an annulus inward of the peak wind, the vortex decays more slowly with height, and the vortex tends to be more aligned in the vertical. The TC secondary circulation is also strongly linked to TC intensity, as more intense storms have shallower and stronger lower-tropospheric inflow as well as larger azimuthally averaged ascent. The distribution of vertical velocity is found to vary with TC intensity, height, and radial domain. These results—and the capabilities of TC-RADAR—motivate multiple avenues for future work, which are discussed.

Significance Statement

Acquiring observations of the inner core of tropical cyclones (TCs) is a challenge due to the hazardous conditions inherent to the storm. A proven method of sampling the TC core region is the use of airborne radar. This study presents a novel database comprising over 900 airborne radar analyses collected in storms between 1997 and 2020, which is freely available to the research community. Here we demonstrate the utility of the database by examining how the three-dimensional structure of the TC core region changes depending upon the intensity of the storm. By identifying how the baseline TC vortex structure varies with TC intensity, this work provides the foundation for multiple future research avenues and model evaluation efforts.
The Network and the Society: Structure and Agency in Castells’ Theory
Authors: Miconi Andrea
Published: May 2022

The aim of the article is to explore the theoretical tension between structure and agency as laid out by Manuel Castells, from The Rise of the Network Society (1996) to Networks of Outrage and Hope (2012). With agency and structure recognized as the two main axes around which general social theory rotates, Castells’ work appears to be affected by discontinuity rather than continuity. The first part of his theory mainly deals with structure and with the “pre-eminence of social morphology over social action”, while the second is rather based on agency, and namely on the role played by grassroots movements. I will retrace his theoretical evolution while also stressing the point that network and society are not one and the same. Therefore, any all-embracing theoretical perspective is destined to miss the target, considering that technical, political, and social affairs follow different rules and patterns.
Triglyceride Glucose Index for Predicting Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Chinese Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Zhang Fomin , Kadierding Rena , Zhang Shihan , Yang Hua , Ren Libin , Ren Min , Ma Yue , Wang Le , Zhang Rui , Li Wenyu , Cong Hongliang , Zhang Yingyi
Published: May 2022

We conducted a longitudinal study (from February 2017 to July 2017) to explore whether the triglyceride glucose index (TyG) index has a prognostic value for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) among high-risk Chinese hypertensives. The study population were from 6 districts of Tianjin, China. Finally, a total of 2250 patients were enrolled in this 3.5 year cohort study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the cut-off value of the TyG index: Low-TyG group (n = 901, TyG ≤ 8.87), High-TyG group (n = 1349, TyG > 8.87). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to estimate the relationship between the TyG and MACE. In multivariate cox regression analyses, the hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) of the high-TyG group was 1.313 (1.010, 1.708) compared with the low-TyG group. In those with an age ≤65 years and male subgroups, the prediction value of TyG was higher, and the risk of occurrence of MACE greater after adjusting other risk factors. The TyG index is an indicator to predict the development of MACE in hypertensive patients.
Chemometrics for Raman Spectroscopy Harmonization
Authors: Barton Bastian , Thomson James , Lozano Diz Enrique , Portela Raquel
Published: May 2022

Raman spectroscopy is used in a wide variety of fields, and in a plethora of different configurations. Raman spectra of simple analytes can often be analyzed using univariate approaches and interpreted in a straightforward manner. For more complex spetral data such as time series or line profiles (1D), Raman maps (2D), or even volumes (3D), multivariate data analysis (MVDA) becomes a requirement. Even though there are some existing standards for creation, implementation, and validation of methods and models employed in industry and academics, further research and development in the field must contribute to their improvement. This review will cover, in broad terms, existing techniques as well as new developments for MVDA for Raman spectroscopic data, and in particular the use associated with instrumentation and data calibration. Chemometric models are often generated via fusion of analytical data from different sources, which enhances model discrimination and prediction abilities as compared to models derived from a single data source. For Raman spectroscopy, raw or unprocessed data is rarely ever used. Instead, spectra are usually corrected and manipulated, 1 often by case-specific rather than universal methods. Calibration models can be used to characterize qualitatively and/or quantitatively samples measured with the same instrumentation that was used to create the model. However, regular validation is required to ensure that aging or incorrect maintenance of the instrument does not alter the model’s predictions, particularly when applied in regulated fields such as pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, a model transfer may be required for different reasons, such as replacement or significant repair of the instrumentation. Modeling can also be used to consistently harmonize Raman spectroscopic data across several instrumental designs, accounting for variations in the resulting spectrum induced by different components. Data for Raman harmonization models should be processed in a protocolled manner, and the original data accessible to allow for model reconstruction or transfer when new data is added. Important processing steps will be the calibration of the spectral axes and instrument dependent effects, such as spectral resolution. In addition, data fusion and model transfer are essential for allowing new instrumentation to build on existing models to harmonize their own data. Ideally, an open access database would be created and maintained, for the purpose of allowing for continued harmonization of new Raman instruments using an outlined and accepted protocol.
Analysis and design of laminated composite beams based on a refined higher-order theory
Authors: Tsiatas George C , Charalampakis Aristotelis E
Published: May 2022

In this work, a new analysis and design methodology of laminated composite beams is presented. The problem is formulated for both symmetric and antisymmetric ply-stacking configurations, based on a refined higher-order shear deformation theory. The solution is obtained using the Analog Equation Method (AEM) while the design process is based on the Differential Evolution (DE) metaheuristic optimization algorithm, using both displacement and strength-related objective functions. Numerical examples are presented, demonstrating the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed analysis and design methodology. The results indicate that to minimize the deflection of an orthotropic laminated beam the principal material orientation must coincide with the longitudinal axis of the beam. Moreover, for the strength optimization problem, the Tsai-Wu failure criterion proved to be numerically unstable, returning very large negative values for seemingly indifferent configurations. Conversely, Hashin’s criterion manifests robustness during the optimization process ensuring efficacious design.
Pursuing dreams in an Asian global city: Does host language proficiency matter for Asian minorities?
Authors: Jiang Jin , Lui Hon-Kwong
Published: May 2022

Asians who are not attracted by western culture may pursue their dreams in an Asian global city. While most people in Asia do not use English to communicate in their daily life, past literature on international migration focuses on English-speaking countries. This study uses Hong Kong (branded an Asian global city) as a case study to examine whether mastery of a native language (Cantonese) and/or English, a dominant non-native language in the commercial sector, determines the economic success of Asian migrants. Contrary to the general expectation of the importance of the native language, this study finds that a mastery of English and the official language of China (Putonghua) instead of Cantonese generates higher earnings for Asian minorities. The language advantages for earnings are mediated by the attainment of high-paid occupations. This study suggests that immigrants’ assimilation in a host society is not just a local problem but relates to the global and regional contextual factors of the city.
A Pilot Study for Testing the Effectiveness and Cost-Efficiency of Lottery Incentive in mHealth App that Promotes Walking
Authors: Lee Changseok , Chung Kyong-Mee
Published: May 2022

This is a pilot study that investigated differences in effectiveness, maintenance of effectiveness, cost-efficiency, satisfaction, and usability of a lottery incentive via mobile devices to promote walking, depending on the chance of winning the lottery, the amount of the prize, and gender. Sixty-six college students (male = 26) were randomly assigned to 3 groups: 10% chance of a big prize (10% + B), 50% chance of a medium prize (50% + M), and 100% chance of a small prize (100% + S). Step counts were collected through mobile devices before and after the intervention, as well as at the 2-month follow-up. The results showed significant increases in the step counts among males after the intervention in the 10% + B and the 50% + M groups, and females in the 100% + S group. Only males in the 50% + M group exhibited maintenance in effectiveness during follow-up. With regard to cost-efficiency, the 10% + B and the 50% + M male groups, which showed significant differences in effectiveness, were compared, and no significant difference was found. With regard to intervention satisfaction, satisfaction of the 10% + B group was lower than that of the 100% + S group. There were no significant interactions or main effects regarding the usability of the intervention. The results suggest that a lottery incentive is effective only for men to promote walking when a medium size prize is given with a 50% of chance of winning the lottery.
Don’t Go Chasing Narcissists: A Relational-Based and Multiverse Perspective on Leader Narcissism and Follower Engagement Using a Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Gruda Dritjon , Karanatsiou Dimitra , Hanges Paul , Golbeck Jennifer , Vakali Athena
Published: May 2022

Although research interest in leader narcissism has been on the rise over the past few years, prior literature has predominantly discussed leader narcissism from a leader-centric perspective. In this article, we provide a relational-based perspective of leader narcissism by examining the interaction between follower personality traits and leader narcissism on follower engagement in an online context. We combine a machine learning (ML) approach and multiverse analysis to predict the personality traits of a large sample of leaders and engaged followers across 18 created multiverses and analyze hypothesized interactions using multilevel regressions, also accounting for leader gender moderation effects. We find that the interaction between leader narcissism and follower agreeableness and follower neuroticism positively predicts follower engagement, whereas the interaction between leader narcissism and follower openness negatively predicts follower engagement. In addition, we find that leader gender plays an important moderating role. Limitations and implications are discussed.
Children's Experiences of Death Anxiety and Responses to the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jones K. , Hughes Ben
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to explore children's experience and responses to the Covid-19 pandemic through their illustrations and short narrations. During October 2020 and January 2021 data was collected from thirteen children aged 9–10 years old in a primary school in the North-West of England. Children were asked to draw their thoughts and feelings about the pandemic and to write a short narration to accompany the drawing. Thematic analysis of data revealed that during the pandemic children at this age have an understanding of death, experience death anxiety and are able to use creative expression to facilitate meaning of the impact of lockdown on their lives such as feeling isolated, lonely, sad and bored. Creative expression also facilitated adaptive coping mechanisms derived from being able to spend more time with family. The data on primary school children is part of a larger study which involved surveys and interviews with children aged 12–16 years in secondary schools.
Severability Doctrine and the Exercise of Judicial Review
Authors: Vande Kamp Garrett N.
Published: May 2022

One of the most important doctrines a constitutional court must consider when exercising judicial review is severability. If a court decides that a statutory provision is unconstitutional, it must also decide whether that provision may be severed from the statute to allow the remainder to carry the full force of law. While the use of severability by constitutional courts has generated substantial controversy among legal scholars, there has been scant empirical analysis evaluating their claims of how courts employ severability doctrine. Relying on both legal and social science scholarship, I craft a series of hypotheses about how courts use severability. I test these hypotheses on the U.S. Supreme Court’s constitutional decisions on important federal statutes over the post-war period. The analysis shows that both political and legal considerations influence the Court’s severability doctrine, simultaneously fueling and allaying the criticisms of the legal community.
Midterm Outcomes of Talocalcaneal Coalition Arthroscopic Resection in Adults
Authors: Wang Anhong , Chen Linxin , Pi Yanbin , Zhao Feng , Xie Xing , Jiao Chen , Hu Yuelin , Jiang Dong , Guo Qinwei
Published: May 2022

Background:

Arthroscopic resection of the talocalcaneal coalition (TCC) has been reported to be associated with good short-term outcomes. However, the midterm outcomes of this approach remain uncertain.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective study of patients who underwent arthroscopic resection for symptomatic TCC. The patients were divided into 2 groups (group P, patients with isolated posterior facet coalition; and group MP, patients with both middle and posterior facet coalition). The preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale scores were calculated. The postoperative AOFAS and VAS scores between the 2 groups were analyzed. Patient satisfaction was also assessed.

Results:

Thirty-two patients were included in this study. The mean age at the time of surgery was 26.0±8.5 years, and the mean follow-up period was 56.9±18.0 months. Thirteen (41%) patients were in group P, whereas 19 (59%) patients were in group MP. Postoperative VAS and AOFAS scores improved more significantly than preoperative scores. At the final follow-up, excellent and good subjective outcomes were attained in 26 patients (81%), fair and poor outcomes in 6 patients (19%). There were no statistical differences in the postoperative AOFAS (91.0±7.0 vs 85.8±10.8, P = .532) and VAS score (2.1±1.7 vs 4.0±2.6, P = .537) between patients with the ratio of coalition/posterior facet more than or less than 50%. There were no statistical differences in postoperative VAS score (1.8±1.3 vs 2.6±2.2, P = .236) and AOFAS score (92.5±5.6 vs 89.2±8.7, P = .297) between group P (n=13) and group MP (n=19), either. Three patients (9.4%) had complications, including these notable findings: 1 patient complained of restricted dorsal flexion, 1 with computed tomography–proven coalition recurrence, and 1 with partial tibial nerve injury.

Conclusion:

We found that TCC arthroscopic resection was generally associated with reasonable outcomes at midterm follow-up.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Exploring State Level Factors Associated with Short-Stays in Child Welfare: The Role of Systemic Risk and Surveillance
Authors: Greenfield Brett , Zhang Liwei , Simmel Cassandra
Published: May 2022

Growing attention has been directed toward children who are placed in out-of-home care by child welfare authorities for less than 30 days, deemed “short-stayers”. This exploratory study uses multiple national child welfare and population data sources to identify macro level factors associated with short-stays. Two-level logistic regression modeling was conducted to explore how state-level factors were associated with risk of short-stays. Factors associated with lower odds of short-stays included living in a state with a centralized child welfare reporting structure and with greater food insecurity. Factors associated with greater odds included living in a state with a higher percentage of the state’s population enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and states with more police per capita. Multiple state level factors were associated short-stay risk, which suggests broader systemic factors contribute to these brief removals. Findings suggest greater surveillance by police and social services increases risk of short-stays, which likely have implications for child welfare policy and practice.
Effect of Aerobic, Resistance, and Combined Exercise Training on Depressive Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Muscle Strength in Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Mahmoudi Ahmad , Amirshaghaghi Farahnaz , Aminzadeh Reza , Mohamadi Turkmani Ehsan
Published: May 2022

Background

Aerobic training, resistance training, or combined training are interventions that can be modified to suit the needs of aged people.

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the impact of exercise training on depression symptoms, quality of life, and muscle strength in healthy people aged 60 or more.

Data Sources

Searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases from inception to February 2022.

Results

Eighteen studies, totaling 1354 participants, were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, exercise training significantly declined depressive symptoms (standard mean difference (SMD): −.52, 95% confidence interval (CI): −.76 to −.28; p < .001). Moreover, there was a significant reduction in bodily pain ( p < .05) and body mass ( p < .01), and a significant increase in mental health ( p < .001), physical functioning ( p < .01), and general health ( p < .001) subscales of quality of life as well as upper- ( p < .001) and lower-limb strength ( p < .001). Subgroup analysis revealed that depression decreased significantly when aerobic training ( p = .000) and resistance training ( p = .003) were applied, and for studies including both genders ( p = .000) or men subjects ( p = .002). Moreover, subgroup analysis demonstrated that depression reduced following both medium- ( p = .006) and long-term ( p = .002) interventions.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that exercise interventions may produce improvements in depressive symptoms, some components of quality of life, muscle strength, and body mass. Additional research is required to define the optimal dose of exercise training interventions.
Visual tactility: ‘Oddly satisfying’ videos, sensory genres and ambiguities in children’s YouTube
Authors: Nansen Bjørn , Balanzategui Jessica
Published: May 2022

This article contributes to research on children’s YouTube, online video genres and media consumption practices by focusing on genres that take shape at the intersection of digital media content and embodied sensation and in particular ‘oddly satisfying’ (OS) videos. This type of content has become popular on YouTube, where examples of satisfying and OS content include the manipulation or movement of a range of colourful or tactile materials such as slime, kinetic sand or icing a cake. To document the evolution and key characteristics of this genre, we analyse YouTube videos using content analysis methods. Our findings show the characteristics of this sensory genre can be understood through the concept of visual tactility, which highlights the synaesthetic feel of watching these videos. Further, we identify and examine how OS videos demonstrate ambiguities in children’s YouTube content, audiences and regulation by overlapping with other sensory genres and more adult content, such as ASMR. This analysis thus situates this sensory genre in relation to the developing study of children’s YouTube entertainment industries and media regulation.
Multi-index probabilistic anomaly detection for large span bridges using Bayesian estimation and evidential reasoning
Authors: Xu Xiang , Forde Michael C , Ren Yuan , Huang Qiao , Liu Bin
Published: May 2022

To measure uncertainties within anomaly detection and distinguish sensor faults from anomalous events, a multi-index probabilistic anomaly detection approach is proposed for large span bridges based on Bayesian estimation and evidential reasoning. To avoid false detection raised by signal spikes, an energy index is first defined and extracted from pre-processed measurements, including missing data recovery and thermal response separation. Then, a probabilistic index, namely, certainty degree, is derived from probability density functions of detection triggers – extreme values predicted by using Bayesian estimation of the generalized Pareto distribution. To distinguish sensor faults from anomalous scenarios, evidential reasoning is applied to incorporate multiple certainty degrees into a joint one under the assumption that the probability of multi-sensor failing simultaneously is extremely low. Specifically, a large joint certainty degree indicates a high occurrence probability of anomalous scenarios, while a small one together with a large individual certainty degree depicts a high probability of sensor faults. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed anomaly detection method is validated through structural health monitoring data from the Nanjing Dashengguan Yangtze River Bridge. Measurements from four sensors, that is, three cable forces and one deflection, are selected to detect anomalies based on their high pair-wise correlations. Two case studies are presented, namely, sensor fault detection and snow disaster detection. The sensor fault is detected through a certainty degree of almost 100% for the individual index and a joint certainty degree of nearly 0. The snowstorm is detected by a joint certainty degree of 36.82%.
Orthographic and feature-level contributions to letter identification
Authors: Lally Clare , Rastle Kathleen
Published: May 2022

Word recognition is facilitated by primes containing visually similar letters ( dentjst-dentist), suggesting that letter identities are encoded with initial uncertainty. Orthographic knowledge also guides letter identification, as readers are more accurate at identifying letters in words compared with pseudowords. We investigated how high-level orthographic knowledge and low-level visual feature analysis operate in combination during letter identification. We conducted a Reicher–Wheeler task to compare readers’ ability to discriminate between visually similar and dissimilar letters across different orthographic contexts (words, pseudowords, and consonant strings). Orthographic context and visual similarity had independent effects on letter identification, and there was no interaction between these factors. The magnitude of these effects indicated that high-level orthographic information plays a greater role than low-level visual feature information in letter identification. We propose that readers use orthographic knowledge to refine potential letter candidates while visual feature information is accumulated. This combination of high-level knowledge and low-level feature analysis may be essential in permitting the flexibility required to identify visual variations of the same letter (e.g., N-n) while maintaining enough precision to tell visually similar letters apart (e.g., n-h). These results provide new insights on the integration of visual and linguistic information and highlight the need for greater integration between models of reading and visual processing.
Living losses in stroke caregiving: A qualitative systematic review of systematic reviews on psycho-socio-emotional challenges and coping mechanisms
Authors: Choo Ping Ying , Shaik Muhammad Amin , Tan-Ho Geraldine , Lee Jimmy , Ho Andy Hau Yan
Published: May 2022

Background:

Stroke compromises the quality of life and wellbeing of stroke survivors and families as a whole. The unexpected caregiving responsibilities often cause psychological distress, overwhelming emotions, living losses and grief, and relational conflicts with stroke survivors. Despite the increasing research to better understand their needs, empirically sound and holistic psychosocial interventions for stroke caregivers are lacking.

Aims:

This study aims to consolidate psycho-socio-emotional needs and challenges in the existing systematic reviews and offer potential directions for psychosocial interventions to better support caregivers at a psycho-socio-emotional level.

Methods:

This systematic review adhered to the PRISMA guideline and employed the PICo (population, phenomena of interest, context) framework to screen for relevant systematic reviews for analysis. Six major databases were searched, including Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, Global Health, Medline, PsycArticles, and PsycInfo between 2010 and 2020. Ten systematic reviews were selected for full-text analysis using thematic synthesis.

Summary of review:

Data synthesis revealed eight themes with sixteen sub-themes, all together organized into two main theme categories. The psycho-socio-emotional challenges included disruptions to (1) psychological homeostasis, (2) role equilibrium, (3) familial connection, and (4) caregiving empowerment. The psycho-socio-emotional coping mechanisms, which could be adopted to buffer against the identified challenges, involved (1) recalibration of normality and balance, (2) psychosocial support and caregiver relief, (3) relational reorientation and dyadic coping, and (4) institutional holistic care and support.

Conclusion:

The findings accentuate the importance of addressing living losses and grief emerging from the caregiving journey, as well as facilitating meaning reconstruction to safeguard caregivers’ wellbeing. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.
Tobacco Cessation Counseling and Medications Provided by Physicians to Tobacco Users During Primary Care Visits
Authors: Geletko Karen W. , Graves Katelyn , Lateef Hanna , Harman Jeffrey
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

The established guidelines for treating tobacco use and dependency is brief provider intervention to assist those willing to quit by providing access to medication and/or behavioral counseling. The purpose of the study is to determine the extent of cessation treatment offered by providers during primary care visits by patients who are current tobacco users, and to examine associations between patient factors and treatment received.

Methods:

Using data from the 2015 to 2018 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS), we examined tobacco cessation counseling and medications from 4590 visits by patients with current tobacco use. Separate multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess whether the odds of receiving tobacco cessation treatment varied by age, gender, race/ethnicity, and payment source.

Results:

Of visits by current tobacco users, 18.4% included cessation counseling, 5.5% included cessation medication, and 22.1% included at least 1 type of treatment. Visits by patients with Medicare had 44% greater odds of including counseling (CI = 1%-205%) and treatment (OR = 1.44; 95% CI = 1.01-2.06). Visits classified as “other payment type” had 73% greater odds of including counseling (OR = 1.73; 95% CI = 1.05-2.84). Visits by women had 86% greater odds of including medication (CI = 17%-294%).

Conclusions:

Tobacco cessation treatment is underutilized by providers during primary care visits. Further research is necessary to understand and address barriers to providing routine cessation assistance.
The Comparison of Convolutional Neural Networks and the Manual Measurement of Cobb Angle in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Huang Xianming , Luo Ming , Liu Limin , Wu Diwei , You Xuanhe , Deng Zhipeng , Xiu Peng , Yang Xi , Zhou Chunguang , Feng Ganjun , Wang Lei , Zhou Zhongjie , Fan Jipeng , He Mingjie , Gao Zhongjun , Pu Lixin , Wu Zhihong , Zhou Zongke , Song Yueming , Huang Shishu
Published: May 2022

Study Design

Comparative study

Objective

To compare manual and deep learning-based automated measurement of Cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Methods

We proposed a fully automated framework to measure the Cobb angle of AIS patients. Whole-spine images of 500 AIS individuals were collected. 200 digital radiographic (DR) images were labeled manually as training set, and the remaining 300 images were used to validate by mean absolute error (MAE), Pearson or spearman correlation coefficients, and intra/interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). The relationship between accuracy of vertebral boundary identification and the subjective image quality score was evaluated.

Results

The PT, MT, and TL/L Cobb angles were measured by the automated framework within 300 milliseconds. Remarkable 2.92° MAE, .967 ICC, and high correlation coefficient (r = .972) were obtained for the major curve. The MAEs of PT, MT, and TL/L were 3.04°, 2.72°, and 2.53°, respectively. The ICCs of these 3 curves were .936, .977, and .964, respectively. 88.7% (266/300) of cases had a difference range of ±5°, with 84.3% (253/300) for PT, 89.7% (269/300) for MT, and 93.0% (279/300) for TL/L. The decreased bone/soft tissue contrast (2.94 vs 3.26; P=.039) and bone sharpness (2.97 vs 3.35; P=.029) were identified in the images with MAE exceeding 5°.

Conclusion

The fully automated framework not only identifies the vertebral boundaries, vertebral sequences, the upper/lower end vertebras and apical vertebra, but also calculates the Cobb angle of PT, MT, and TL/L curves sequentially. The framework would shed new light on the assessment of AIS curvature.
Outcomes of Nerve Transfers in Peroneal Nerve Palsy
Authors: Lichtenstein Julia B. , Head Linden K. , Wolff Gerald , Boyd Kirsty U.
Published: May 2022

Background: The objective of this work is to: (i) evaluate the postoperative outcomes after lower extremity nerve transfer (LENT) in patients with peroneal nerve palsy, and (ii) evaluate the patient and surgical factors that best predict successful restoration of ankle dorsiflexion following nerve transfer. Methods: A retrospective cohort of prospectively collected data included all patients who underwent LENT (2010-2018). Two independent reviewers performed data collection. Primary outcome measures were: (i) clinically with British Medical Research Council (MRC) strength assessments, and (ii) electrodiagnostically with nascent motor unit potentials. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and nonparametric statistics. Results: Nine patients (56% male, mean age 38.3, range 18-57 years) underwent LENT surgery a mean of 4.3 months following injury (range 2.2-6.4 months). Mean follow-up was 15.6 months (range 9.1-28.2 months). Postoperatively, ankle dorsiflexion ( P  =  .015) and ankle eversion ( P  =  .041) increased significantly. After surgery, 44% achieved MRC 4, 33% obtained MRC 1 motor recovery, and 22% sustained MRC 0. A shorter time to surgery was associated with significantly better outcomes ( P  =  .049). Conclusions: It appears that there is a bimodal distribution between responders and nonresponders to LENT for foot drop. Further research is required to elucidate patient and surgical factors that prognosticate success.
The Lattice Distortion-Induced Ferromagnetism in the Chemical-Bonded MoSe2/WSe2 at Room Temperature
Authors: Huang Shiu-Ming , Wang Pin-Cing , Chen Pin-Cyuan
Published: May 2022

Ferromagnetism to non-ferromagnetism transition is detected in a chemically bonded MoSe$$_{2}$$

2

/WSe$$_{2}$$

2

powder with different thermal annealing temperatures. All samples exhibit ferromagnetism and Raman redshift, except for the 1100 °C thermally annealed sample in which the MoSe$$_{2}$$

2

and WSe$$_{2}$$

2

are thermally dissociated and geometrically separated. The element analysis reveals no significant element ratio difference and detectable magnetic elements in all samples. These results support that, in contrast to the widely reported structure defect or transition element dopant, the observed ferromagnetism originates from the structure distortion due to the chemical bonding at the interface between MoSe$$_{2}$$

2

and WSe$$_{2}$$

2

.
GWAS and bulked segregant analysis reveal the Loci controlling growth habit-related traits in cultivated Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Li Li , Cui Shunli , Dang Phat , Yang Xinlei , Wei Xuejun , Chen Kai , Liu Lifeng , Chen Charles Y.
Published: May 2022

Background

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a grain legume crop that originated from South America and is now grown around the world. Peanut growth habit affects the variety’s adaptability, planting patterns, mechanized harvesting, disease resistance, and yield. The objective of this study was to map the quantitative trait locus (QTL) associated with peanut growth habit-related traits by combining the genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) and bulked segregant analysis sequencing (BSA-seq) methods.

Results

GWAS was performed with 17,223 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 103 accessions of the U.S. mini core collection genotyped using an Affymetrix version 2.0 SNP array. With a total of 12,342 high-quality polymorphic SNPs, the 90 suggestive and significant SNPs associated with lateral branch angle (LBA), main stem height (MSH), lateral branch height (LBL), extent radius (ER), and the index of plant type (IOPT) were identified. These SNPs were distributed among 15 chromosomes. A total of 597 associated candidate genes may have important roles in biological processes, hormone signaling, growth, and development. BSA-seq coupled with specific length amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq) method was used to find the association with LBA, an important trait of the peanut growth habit. A 4.08 Mb genomic region on B05 was associated with LBA. Based on the linkage disequilibrium (LD) decay distance, we narrowed down and confirmed the region within the 160 kb region (144,193,467–144,513,467) on B05. Four candidate genes in this region were involved in plant growth. The expression levels of Araip.E64SW detected by qRT-PCR showed significant difference between ‘Jihua 5’ and ‘M130’.

Conclusions

In this study, the SNP (AX-147,251,085 and AX-144,353,467) associated with LBA by GWAS was overlapped with the results in BSA-seq through combined analysis of GWAS and BSA-seq. Based on LD decay distance, the genome range related to LBA on B05 was shortened to 144,193,467–144,513,467. Three candidate genes related to F-box family proteins (Araip.E64SW, Araip.YG1LK, and Araip.JJ6RA) and one candidate gene related to PPP family proteins (Araip.YU281) may be involved in plant growth and development in this genome region. The expression analysis revealed that Araip.E64SW was involved in peanut growth habits. These candidate genes will provide molecular targets in marker-assisted selection for peanut growth habits.
Effective situation-based delirium simulation training using flipped classroom approach to improve interprofessional collaborative practice competency: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Shikino Kiyoshi , Ide Narumi , Kubota Yoko , Ishii Itsuko , Ito Shoichi , Ikusaka Masatomi , Sakai Ikuko
Published: May 2022

Background

Interprofessional collaborative practice competency (ICPC) is key to providing safe, high-quality, accessible, patient-centred care. Effective delirium management, particularly, requires a multi-component intervention, including the use of interprofessional teams at care point. This research aims to investigate the effectiveness of the flipped classroom approach for improving ICPC in simulation-based delirium case management.

Method

An embedded mixed-methods study was designed to investigate the effects of the flipped classroom approach on health professionals’ performance in delirium management. The study population comprised nine health professionals (three physicians, nurses, and pharmacists each). They used pre-class study materials about delirium management via a digital learning platform before a simulation case training session. A readiness assurance process test was conducted on key concepts, covered in the pre-class study material. Participants were randomly assigned to three teams, each of which included health professionals. Each team participated in a simulation case scenario. For the quantitative outcome measures, the Chiba Interprofessional Competency Scale (CICS29), a validated scale for measuring competencies of interprofessional practice, was used before, after, and three months after the educational intervention. The qualitative component consisted of a post-training questionnaire and semi-structured focused group interviews about the impact of the flipped classroom approach.

Result

The CICS29 measured after the intervention and three months after was noted to be significantly higher than before the intervention. Three semi-structured focused group interviews were conducted (n=9), which, upon analysis revealed that the flipped classroom approach effected on four stages of Bloom's taxonomy level. A total of nine categories and 17 subcategories were identified corresponding to four levels of the revised Bloom’s taxonomy: remember (1), understand (12), apply (23), and analyse (3).

Conclusion

The simulation-based skill training using flipped classroom approach can be an effective method for improving ICPC for health professionals. In this approach, an elevated level of cognitive activity is practiced in the Bloom’s taxonomy, and the participants worked on an application-based case simulation that promoted higher level learning and engagement in interprofessional collaborative practice. This approach also established a basic common language of delirium assessment and management, thus facilitating communication among health professionals and improving ICPC.
Development and user-testing of a digital patient decision aid to facilitate shared decision-making for people with stable angina
Authors: Harris Emma , Conway Dwayne , Jimenez-Aranda Angel , Butts Jeremy , Hedley-Takhar Philippa , Thomson Richard , Astin Felicity
Published: May 2022

Background

Research shows that people with stable angina need decision support when considering elective treatments. Initial treatment is with medicines but patients may gain further benefit with invasive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Choosing between these treatments can be challenging for patients because both confer similar benefits but have different risks. Patient decision aids (PtDAs) are evidence-based interventions that support shared decision-making (SDM) when making healthcare decisions. This study aimed to develop and user-test a digital patient decision aid (CONNECT) to facilitate SDM for people with stable angina considering invasive treatment with elective PCI.

Methods

A multi-phase study was conducted to develop and test CONNECT (COroNary aNgioplasty dECision Tool) using approaches recommended by the International Patient Decision Aid Standards Collaboration: (i) Steering Group assembled, (ii) review of clinical guidance, (iii) co-design workshops with patients and cardiology health professionals, (iv) first prototype developed and ‘alpha’ tested (semi-structured cognitive interviews and 12-item acceptability questionnaire) with patients, cardiologists and cardiac nurses, recruited from two hospitals in Northern England, and (v) final PtDA refined following iterative user-feedback. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and qualitative data from the interviews analysed using deductive content analysis.

Results

CONNECT was developed and user-tested with 34 patients and 29 cardiology health professionals. Findings showed that CONNECT was generally acceptable, usable, comprehensible, and desirable. Participants suggested that CONNECT had the potential to improve care quality by personalising consultations and facilitating SDM and informed consent. Patient safety may be improved as CONNECT includes questions about symptom burden which can identify asymptomatic patients unlikely to benefit from PCI, as well as those who may need to be fast tracked because of worsening symptoms.

Conclusions

CONNECT is the first digital PtDA for people with stable angina considering elective PCI, developed in the UK using recommended processes and fulfilling international quality criteria. CONNECT shows promise as an approach to facilitate SDM and should be evaluated in a clinical trial. Further work is required to standardise the provision of probabilistic risk information for people considering elective PCI and to understand how CONNECT can be accessible to underserved communities.
Temporal trajectories of important diseases in the life course and premature mortality in the UK Biobank
Authors: Shang Xianwen , Zhang Xueli , Huang Yu , Zhu Zhuoting , Zhang Xiayin , Liu Shunming , Liu Jiahao , Tang Shulin , Wang Wei , Yu Honghua , Ge Zongyuan , He Mingguang
Published: May 2022

Background

Little is known regarding life-course trajectories of important diseases. We aimed to identify diseases that were strongly associated with mortality and test temporal trajectories of these diseases before mortality.

Methods

Our analysis was based on UK Biobank. Diseases were identified using questionnaires, nurses’ interviews, or inpatient data. Mortality register data were used to identify mortality up to January 2021. The association between 60 individual diseases at baseline and in the life course and incident mortality was examined using Cox proportional regression models. Those diseases with great contribution to mortality were identified and disease trajectories in life course were then derived.

Results

During a median follow-up of 11.8 years, 31,373 individuals (median age at death (interquartile range): 70.7 (65.3–74.8) years, 59.4% male) died of all-cause mortality (with complete data on diagnosis date of disease), with 16,237 dying with cancer and 6702 with cardiovascular disease (CVD). We identified 37 diseases including cancers and heart diseases that were associated with an increased risk of mortality independent of other diseases (hazard ratio ranged from 1.09 to 7.77). Among those who died during follow-up, 2.2% did not have a diagnosis of any disease of interest and 90.1% were diagnosed with two or more diseases in their life course. Individuals who were diagnosed with more diseases in their life course were more likely to have longer longevity. Cancer was more likely to be diagnosed following hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, CVD, or digestive disorders and more likely to be diagnosed ahead of CVD, chronic kidney disease (CKD), or digestive disorders. CVD was more likely to be diagnosed following hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, or digestive disorders and more likely to be diagnosed ahead of cancer or CKD. Hypertension was more likely to precede other diseases, and CKD was more likely to be diagnosed as the last disease before more mortality.

Conclusions

There are significant interplays between cancer and CVD for mortality. Cancer and CVD were frequently clustered with hypertension, CKD, and digestive disorders with CKD highly being diagnosed as the last disease in the life course. Our findings underline the importance of health checks among middle-aged adults for the prevention of premature mortality.