bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear Probability Model Revisited: Why It Works and How It Should Be Specified
Authors: Lee Myoung-jae , Lee Goeun , Choi Jin-young
Published: May 2023

A linear model is often used to find the effect of a binary treatment [Formula: see text] on a noncontinuous outcome [Formula: see text] with covariates [Formula: see text]. Particularly, a binary [Formula: see text] gives the popular “linear probability model (LPM),” but the linear model is untenable if [Formula: see text] contains a continuous regressor. This raises the question: what kind of treatment effect does the ordinary least squares estimator (OLS) to LPM estimate? This article shows that the OLS estimates a weighted average of the [Formula: see text]-conditional heterogeneous effect plus a bias. Under the condition that [Formula: see text] is equal to the linear projection of [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text], the bias becomes zero, and the OLS estimates the “overlap-weighted average” of the [Formula: see text]-conditional effect. Although the condition does not hold in general, specifying the [Formula: see text]-part of the LPM such that the [Formula: see text]-part predicts [Formula: see text] well, not [Formula: see text], minimizes the bias counter-intuitively. This article also shows how to estimate the overlap-weighted average without the condition by using the “propensity-score residual” [Formula: see text]. An empirical analysis demonstrates our points.
A common presentation of an uncommon pathology: Kimura disease
Authors: Solomon Lydia , Modak Ketan , Paul Preethi Anni Mercy , John Joseph
Published: May 2023

Kimura's disease is a chronic, benign inflammatory condition of the subcutaneous tissue. It presents as painless, subcutaneous nodules of the head and neck, which are firm, painless, and may be single or multiple. It is most commonly seen in young adult Asian men. The nodes remain stable or may slowly enlarge over time. Elevated serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, peripheral blood eosinophilia and lymphoid proliferation with eosinophilic infiltration on histopathological examination are the characteristic features. Spontaneous regression is usually seen. The diagnosis of Kimura's disease can be difficult and misleading, and it is important not to ignore histopathological features.
Current debates and emerging trends in the history of science in premodern Islamicate societies
Authors: Fancy Nahyan , Stearns Justin , Brentjes Sonja , Şen A. Tunç , Trigg Scott , Gardiner Noah , VarlıkRutgers Nükhet , Melvin-Koushki Matthew , Haq S. Nomanul
Published: May 2023

This roundtable brings together contributions from nine senior, mid-career and junior scholars who work on the history of science in pre-1800 Islamicate societies. The contributions reflect upon some of the challenges that have historically constrained the subfield, how they have sought to overcome them, and what they see as some of the more productive and fruitful turns the field has taken and/or should take in the future. A central trend in all contributions is how they seek to confront the combined weight of colonialism, Orientalism, and the teleological history of science that continues to haunt contemporary discussions in both academia and the general public with regards to science in pre-1800 Islamicate societies. Without diminishing the pioneering achievements of the generations of historians who have preceded us, and upon whose work we continue to rely, this combined weight has tended a) to marginalize the study of occult sciences in Islamicate societies; b) to emphasize investigations of content from an etic perspective of how we got to the present, which is primarily seen as how the scientific content is connected to the rise of modern science in Europe; and c) to concomitantly marginalize the study of science in post-1200 Islamicate societies, particularly those with little to no connection to the rise of “Western” science. The contributions build upon conversations that took place among participants in December 2019 at a workshop at New York University (NYU), Abu Dhabi Institute in New York City, funded by a grant from NYU Abu Dhabi.
Do Some Dynamic Risk Factors Signal Imminent Recidivism? Testing the Conceptual Distinction Between Stable and Acute Dynamic Risk Factors
Authors: Davies Simon T. , Lloyd Caleb D. , Polaschek Devon L. L.
Published: May 2023

In correctional practice, acute and stable dynamic risk factors are conceptually distinct. This distinction, however, has limited empirical support. We suggest that when compared with stable factors, change in acute risk factors over short time periods should demonstrate a stronger association with imminent recidivism. Using a sample of high-risk New Zealand male parolees, we examined recidivism and change in scores on the Acute and Stable subscales from the Dynamic Risk Assessment for Offender Re-entry (DRAOR). Short-term acute change was more strongly associated with imminent recidivism than short-term stable change. Notably, Acute change predicted imminent recidivism even after controlling for the most current acute assessment. Furthermore, variability across Acute, but not Stable, subscale scores enhanced prediction of imminent recidivism. These findings support the largely untested theoretical distinction between stable and acute risk factors, and tentatively support using DRAOR’s Acute subscale to guide immediate intervention decisions.
Red blood cell omega-3 fatty acid content is negatively associated with purposeful gameplay header frequencies in collegiate women soccer players: Implications for diet and brain health
Authors: Carbuhn Aaron F , D’Silva Linda J
Published: May 2023

Background: Frequent soccer heading negatively affects brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids are neuroprotective against head impacts. A biomarker of omega-3 tissue status, red blood cell (RBC) omega-3 content is reduced during soccer activity. However, whether these changes are associated with frequent heading impacts is unknown. Aim: Explore the association between soccer heading frequencies and RBC omega-3 status. Methods: A prospective cohort study in collegiate women soccer players ( n  =  16). Players’ RBC omega-3 status, Omega-3 Index, and self-reported gameplay header frequencies collected during a competitive season. Results: Mean Omega-3 Index (i.e., pre/postseason) was low (3.95  ±  0.44%). Postseason Omega-3 Index negatively correlated ( r  =  −0.545, p  =  0.029) with heading frequencies. Change in Omega-3 Index negatively correlated ( r  =  −0.663, p  =  0.005) with average headers per game. Conclusion: RBC omega-3 status is negatively influenced by frequent soccer heading throughout a competitive season which may have concerning implications for player brain health.
What roles do high-growth small- and medium-sized enterprises play in a slow-growing region? The job diversity and inclusive growth in Incheon, South Korea
Authors: Jung Namji
Published: May 2023

This study examines the labor market outcomes of high-growing incumbent small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Incheon during the 2013-2016 economic downturn. By using employee-employer matched panel data, this study found that only a small number of high-growth firms (HGFs) created the majority of new jobs, while other firms reduced their employees in response to the economic challenges. SME HGFs, on the whole, have a tendency to hire people with high human capital. However, a group of HGFs exhibits a different hiring pattern, specifically targeting marginalized individuals in the labor market. Micro-firms that show one time sharp growth are more likely to hire middle-aged unemployed women and provide them with secure and well paying positions. These findings highlight the significant role of incumbent micro-HGFs in job creation and inclusive growth, emphasizing the need for increased attention from policy circles.
Neuropalliative care for progressive neurological diseases: A scoping review on models of care and priorities for future research
Authors: Grossman Christopher H , Hearn Rowan , McPhee Maryanne , Fisher Fiona , Wools Christine , Mathers Susan
Published: May 2023

Background:

Neuropalliative care is a newly-defined subspeciality bringing specific aspects of fields of neurology and palliative care together to better meet the complex care needs of people with progressive neurological diseases. Examining these needs would help provide guidance about developing relevant models of care and identify gaps in research knowledge.

Aim:

To identify current models and approaches to neuropalliative care for people with progressive neurological diseases and the priorities for future research work.

Design:

A scoping literature review following the methods described by the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Data sources:

An electronic search of the literature was undertaken from six sources including MEDLINE (Ovid), EMCARE, PsycINFO and CINAHL covering the years January 2011 to September 2021.

Results:

Twenty-eight studies were found examining neuropalliative care from the perspectives of 4795 PND patients, 774 informal carers and 138 health professionals. All studies held themes of integrative care, with most studies employing outpatient models of multidisciplinary care. Topics discussed included: overcoming local system-issues, providing education for professionals, patients and carers, early referral and capturing outcome measures for quality-assurance and future research work.

Conclusions:

Most models of neuropalliative care described in the international literature are predominantly outpatient, multidisciplinary and integrative. Clinicians typically utilise existing neurology and palliative care infrastructure to provide care. More high-quality research and outcome tools are needed to guide the design of evidence-based palliative care for people with progressive neurological diseases.
Model-Based Vehicle-Miles Traveled and Emission Evaluation of On-Demand Food Delivery Considering the Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Liu Haishan , Hao Peng , Liao Yejia , Boriboonsomsin Kanok , Barth Matthew
Published: May 2023

The market for on-demand food delivery (ODFD) has increased considerably, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is crucial for transportation and environmental agencies to understand how ODFD has reshaped the travel patterns of people, affecting vehicle-miles traveled (VMT) as well as pollutant emissions in the transportation system. However, the lack of public data from food delivery companies makes it challenging to quantify the impact of on-demand delivery on the real-world transportation network. In this research, we propose a comprehensive framework to quantify the VMT and emissions incurred by ODFD with three main components: (i) a daily activity generation tool, Comprehensive Econometric Micro-simulator for Daily Activity-travel Patterns, to create a simulation scenario of ODFD behaviors based on a real-world roadway network and population demographics in the City of Riverside, California; (ii) an efficient order dispatching and routing algorithm, adaptive large neighborhood search, to obtain a high quality order dispatching and routing plan; (iii) an emission evaluation model, emission factor (EMFAC), to evaluate pollutant emissions from all dining-related trips. Both short-term and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are evaluated. Experimental results show that ODFD has great potential to reduce the dining-related VMT and emissions. The total dining-related VMT in the during-pandemic case decreased by 38% and in the after-pandemic case reduced by 6% to 9%, and the corresponding environmental impacts were reduced accordingly. Meanwhile, emissions reduced significantly with more electric vehicles involved in food delivery. With 100% electric delivery fleet, the ODFD service can save 14% to 22% of emissions after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Flow-Inflated Selective Sampling for Efficient Agent-Based Dynamic Ride-Pooling Simulations
Authors: Kuehnel Nico , Rewald Hannes , Axer Steffen , Zwick Felix , Findeisen Rolf
Published: May 2023

Agent-based simulations are powerful tools for simulating emergent mobility modes, but they often require significant memory and computing power. To address this issue, researchers have previously used sampling techniques, where only a fraction of agents are explicitly simulated while others are simulated through teleportation. However, recent studies have highlighted the challenges of scaling ride-pooling simulations because of their reliance on demand density, which does not scale linearly. In this study, we introduce a new methodology for simulating dynamic ride-pooling services called flow-inflated selective sampling (FISS). Unlike previous approaches, FISS considers all agents but—for selected modes—only explicitly simulates a fraction of their trips while simulating the remaining trips through teleportation. Here, we explicitly simulate all public transport and ride-pooling trips and sample private car trips. The capacity consumption of explicitly simulated cars is scaled up to obtain realistic traffic flows, rather than adjusting the network capacity as in previous approaches. We implement FISS in the MATSim simulation environment for a large scenario in Munich, Germany, and show that it preserves traffic flows while keeping key performance indicators of ride-pooling services stable and unbiased. Mode choice decisions based on FISS also remain stable, and runtimes of the assignment can be almost halved. Overall, FISS is a simple yet effective approach that can significantly reduce the computational burden of agent-based simulations while maintaining the accuracy of the results. It can be particularly useful for simulating ride-pooling services, which can be challenging to scale because of their dependence on demand density.
Optimizing the Effective Use of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement in Local Roadways
Authors: Manasreh Dmitry , Nazzal Munir D. , Abbas Ala , Kim Sang-Soo
Published: May 2023

This study involved the construction of eight test sections in the City of Columbus, Ohio, to evaluate the effects of using different reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) contents and types of rejuvenator on the performance and properties of asphalt mixes used for local roads. The first section (control section) had a mix with 20% RAP and PG 64-22 binder. While three sections had mixes with 30%, 40%, 50% RAP, PG 64-22 binder, and Sylvaroad rejuvenator (tall oil), three other sections had mixes with the same RAP percentages and binder but used Hydrolene (aromatic extract) as the rejuvenator. Finally, the last test section was constructed using a mix with a 30% RAP and PG 64-28 binder (softer binder). Specimens were compacted in the laboratory from loose mixes that were obtained during the construction of each test section. Laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the resistance of the prepared samples to moderate-temperature cracking, low-temperature cracking, rutting, and moisture damage. The test results showed that Hydrolene was more effective than Sylvaroad in improving the moderate-temperature cracking resistance of RAP mixes with more than 30% RAP. In addition, the tests results showed that the 30% RAP, 40% RAP, and 50% RAP mixes had similar low-temperature cracking resistance to that of the control. The laboratory test results also showed that mixes with 30% and 40% RAP had acceptable resistance to moisture damage. Furthermore, all mixes had acceptable rutting resistance. Finally, preliminary field evaluation showed that there were no observed distresses in the test sections after 7 months of construction.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Maintenance, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Decision Making Considering Safety
Authors: Lu Muyang , Guler S. Ilgin , Gayah Vikash V.
Published: May 2023

Traditional pavement maintenance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction (MRR) planning accounts for user cost by maximizing drivers’ comfort, reducing users’ travel delay, and minimizing fuel consumption, while controlling the agency’s costs of undertaking the necessary preservation activities. Safety performance is seldom considered in the MRR planning of pavements. However, the pavement condition has a large impact on the crash frequency and needs to be addressed in the process of pavement MRR planning. Therefore, this study first incorporates safety costs into the MRR planning process as a separate objective. To do so, the MRR planning process seeks to find an optimal maintenance strategy with the lowest agency cost while minimizing crash frequency and user cost based on the resulting pavement condition. A multi-objective optimization approach is proposed to identify the optimal MRR plans that utilize a semi-Markov international roughness index deterioration model developed based on real pavement condition inspection data from Pennsylvania between 2006 and 2018. The results suggest that the agency costs will increase by $9,716 (5.3%) per mile per lane during a 50-year analysis window for pavement starting in good condition when the crash frequency is considered in the MRR planning. This increased agency cost contributes to a reduction in predicted crash frequency by 0.27%. The results can be used to determine the amount agencies need to spend on MRR activities to reduce accidents under different traffic flow and vehicle fleet combinations. The conclusion of this study provided evidence that lower crash frequency can be achieved by developing better MRR planning from the roadway operation perspective.
Estimating Load Transfer Efficiency for Jointed Pavements from TSD Deflection Velocity Measurements
Authors: Scavone Martín , Katicha Samer W. , Flintsch Gerardo W. , Amarh Eugene
Published: May 2023

Transverse joints are the weakest element of jointed pavements, and when these joints lack structural capacity, the onset of load-related distress is imminent. The most widespread measurement of the joints’ structural performance is the Load Transfer Efficiency Index (LTE), a ratio of the deflection of the two adjoining slabs. LTE can easily be assessed with a falling weight deflectometer, but this test procedure is not advisable for evaluation at the network level because of user safety concerns and because it can be excessively time-consuming. Traffic speed deflection devices like the traffic speed deflectometer (TSD) are suitable devices for network-level pavement structural evaluation. Yet, as of today, no interpretation technique to get structural health metrics for jointed pavements from TSD data has been published. In this paper, a backcalculation scheme based on slab theory is proposed to estimate the joints’ LTE from TSD deflection velocity measurements. The backcalculation problem formulation and its numerical solution using fast procedures are described in detail. The approach is tested with TSD data collected on the MnROAD test track. Overall, it was found that the backcalculation converges to reasonable estimates of the pavement structural properties and can furnish LTE estimates for most transverse joints from 5 cm-resolution TSD data, all at a reasonable computational cost. This allows for corridor-wide LTE assessment of a pavement’s joints using TSD measurements.
Transportation Academies as Catalysts for Civic Engagement in Transportation Decision-Making
Authors: McNeil Nathan , Bartholomew Keith , Ryan Matthew
Published: May 2023

Citizen planning academies, which became popular in the 1990s, are increasingly being used in transportation planning and decision-making contexts. By making use of a longer-term, multiweek educational format, transportation academies have the potential to reduce barriers and enhance community capital leading to more meaningful and sustained government–community interaction. This paper tracks the rise of transportation academies in North America, and provides a detailed look at two academies: one in Portland, Oregon with a 30-year history, and another recently launched in the Salt Lake City, Utah region. Postacademy surveys of participants provided data that illuminated whether the transportation academy model was effective in fostering greater and longer-term community engagement. Using an evaluation framework developed for assessing citizen planning academies, the data indicated positive outcomes and provide a basis for further expansion of the use of academy-type engagement initiatives.
Developing a Methodology to Identify Non-Normative Key Destinations for Transportation Planning
Authors: Horiuchi Julianna , Zimmer Alissa , Reginald Monisha , Gartsman Anna , Brown Connor , Limprevil Drefnie , De Jesus Martinez Carolyn
Published: May 2023

Medium- to long-range planning processes generally aim to fix deficiencies in the current transportation network by better distributing existing resources or acquiring new resources. This requires some way of defining better service patterns, including identifying priority places to and from which the network will increase connectivity. Typically, identifying these priority places happens through project-specific outreach efforts, sometimes with the support of job density or population data. This paper discusses a process for leveraging confirmatory public outreach and combining it with location-based services data (or other sources of multi-modal travel data, e.g., household travel surveys) to create an iteratively developed and reproducible methodology for identifying key destinations. This method allows an agency to minimize outreach fatigue by only conducting periodic public outreach on the subject, rather than asking the same baseline questions for every individual planning project. Additionally, this method better bolsters equity by moving away from normatively selected destinations (which tend to be traditional job centers with 9-to-5 commuters) and supporting more high-participation outreach efforts in the future. Ultimately, this paper makes the case that the output of outreach in a data-informed planning process should be a replicable methodology, not a static list.
Return to Sport After Anatomic Lateral Ankle Stabilization Surgery for Chronic Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Li Yanzhang , Su Tong , Hu Yuelin , Jiao Chen , Guo Qinwei , Jiang Yanfang , Jiang Dong
Published: May 2023

Background:

Chronic lateral ankle instability that develops after ankle sprains has a severe, negative influence on the patient’s lower extremity function. Anatomic repair or reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligament is an effective treatment for people with chronic lateral ankle instability who want to regain their preinjury levels of work and sport.

Purpose:

To determine the rate of return to sport (RTS) and related factors after anatomic lateral ankle stabilization (ALAS) surgery.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Electronic databases including Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and EBSCO Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Source were searched from the earliest feasible entrance until August 2021. Articles reporting the number of patients who returned to sport after ALAS surgery and analyzing the relevant factors were included. The results were combined using proportion meta-analyses.

Results:

A total of 25 publications were reviewed, with a total of 1384 participants. Results showed that 95% of patients (95% CI, 91%-99%) returned to any sport, 83% (95% CI, 73%-91%) returned to their preinjury level of sport, and 87% (95% CI, 71%-98%) returned to competitive sport after surgery. The mean time to RTS was 12.45 weeks (95% CI, 10.8-14.1 weeks). Each decade of age increased the likelihood of RTS failure by 6%, and increases in body mass index (BMI) of 5 kg/m2 raised the risk of RTS failure by 4%. The rate of RTS was higher in professional and competitive athletes (93%; 95% CI, 73%-100%) than in recreational athletes (83%; 95% CI, 76%-89%). Analysis showed no differences for arthroscopy versus open surgery, repair versus reconstruction, and early versus late weightbearing.

Conclusion:

In most cases, patients may return to some kind of sport after ALAS surgery, and some patients RTS at their preinjury level. The relative risk of RTS failure increases according to the magnitude of the increase in age and BMI. Elite athletes are more likely to return compared with nonelite athletes.
Effect of High Body Mass Index on Survivorship After Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis
Authors: Lee Jongjin , Bin Seong-Il , Kim Jong-Min , Lee Bum-Sik , Jeon Taehyeon , Bae Kinam , Kim Donghyok
Published: May 2023

Background:

Preoperative body mass index (BMI) is one of the correctable factors before surgery. Few studies have investigated the effect of BMI on the survivorship of lateral meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT).

Hypothesis:

Patients with a high BMI have inferior survivorship after lateral MAT when compared with those with a normal BMI.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Overall, 306 consecutive patients who underwent lateral MAT were retrospectively reviewed. According to the classification criteria of the World Health Organization, patients were split into 2 groups: normal weight (BMI <25.0) and overweight (BMI ≥25.0). There were 104 patients (34.0%) allocated into the overweight group. Given the demographic heterogeneity between the groups, propensity score matching was performed. Before and after propensity score matching, the anatomic and clinical survival rates of the 2 groups were compared by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Anatomic failure was defined as a tear covering >50% of the allograft or unstable peripheral rim on follow-up magnetic resonance imaging and second-look arthroscopy. Clinical failure was defined as a Lysholm score <65 or need for additional surgery, such as revision MAT.

Results:

For all patients, the mean ± SD follow-up period was 6.9 ± 4.2 years. The mean BMI of the overweight and normal weight groups was 27.8 ± 2.6 and 22.0 ± 1.9, respectively. The mean Lysholm scores at the last follow-up were not significantly different between the groups. However, the anatomic survival rate in the overweight group (77.9%) was significantly lower than that in the normal weight group (90.1%) ( P < .001). The clinical survival rate (82.7%) in the overweight group was significantly lower than that in the normal weight group (95.0%) ( P < .001). After propensity score matching for patient characteristics, which left 87 patients per group, the anatomic and clinical survival rates were significantly lower in the overweight group.

Conclusion:

Preoperative high BMI was associated with inferior anatomic and clinical survival rates. The results of the current study suggest that weight loss before lateral MAT may be required in overweight patients for the improvement of anatomic and clinical survival rates.
Initial Validation of Measures for Interest in Marketing Education
Authors: Daus Stephan , Skjelbred Siv-Elisabeth , Pedersen Cathrine
Published: May 2023

To improve the understanding of the drivers of interest, and its impact on other outcomes, researchers and educators need valid and informative measures capturing the different domains of interest. Answering the lack of interest measures in marketing education, we develop and psychometrically assess three instruments reflecting the theoretical notions of situational and individual interest: course interest, contents interest, and job interest. Drawing on a relatively large sample of Norwegian upper-secondary marketing classes ( Nclasses = 22; Nstudents = 433), initial psychometric validation showed that each instrument has good unidimensionality, local item independence, measurement precision across the latent scales, and invariance across instructional approaches, gender, and parental education level. Furthermore, the interest instruments are related but distinct from each other and provide different information than measures of perceptions and achievement. We conclude this first steppingstone by showing the instruments’ information value and discussing future paths for strengthening the validity evidence.
Double standard: Chinese public opinion on the Hong Kong protests
Authors: Gueorguiev Dimitar , Liu Dongshu
Published: May 2023

Research on social movements suggests that when protesters use violence, public opinion often turns against them, unless the observers already view the protesters as extremists. This creates what we refer to as an “asymmetric liability,” where by moderate protest movements are held to a higher standard of civility than more extreme ones. Based on a survey experiment surrounding the 2019 protests in Hong Kong, we show that violence undercuts Chinese public sympathy when movements are framed around rights-based agendas but has little impact when protesters are portrayed as separatists. Pairing our survey results alongside media trends offers suggestive evidence that mainland respondents became less sympathetic to anti-government protesters and slightly less sensitive to protest violence as state media began depicting protesters as radical separatists.
Impact of the MRT Jakarta on Congestion: Evidence from a Before-After, Treatment-Control Evaluation
Authors: Widita Alyas , Welch Timothy , Rukmana Deden , Diwangkari Andyan
Published: May 2023

Across urban and metropolitan regions worldwide, developing a new transit system is often considered an effective way to address traffic congestion. The Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), the first subway system in Indonesia, aims to achieve that goal. Using a before-after, treatment-control evaluation design, we estimate the impact of the MRT Jakarta on corridor-level congestion using data derived from Google Maps and accessed through its application program interface. Results from difference-in-differences regressions indicate a considerably modest and largely localized short-term congestion reduction impact where improved roadway performance was observed mainly along the city’s central business district corridor.
Developmental deficits in male rat pups caused by maternal and dietary administration of chlorpyriphos and cypermethrin: Melatonin’s mitigating effect
Authors: Shittu Muftau , Ambali Suleiman Folorunsho , Ayo Joseph Olusegun , Kawu Mohammed Umaru , Akande Motunrayo Ganiyat , Abdulmalik Zainab
Published: May 2023

The ability of melatonin to reduce growth inadequacy induced by parental and nutritional combination administration to chlorpyriphos (Ch) and cypermethrin (Cy) was examined in male albino rats. Oral alimentation was given to gravid dams divided into six groups ( n = 10; age: 12 weeks) from the first day of pregnancy to the 21st postnatal day. Distilled water (DW), Soya oil (SYO), and melatonin (MeL) groups were exposed to 2 mL/kg, 2 mL/kg, and 0.5 mg/kg, respectively; the Ch+Cy group was co-exposed to Ch (1.9 mg/kg of LD50) and Cy (7.5 mg/kg of LD50); the MChCy group was preconditioned with MeL (0.5 mg/kg), followed by co-exposure to Ch and Cy; and the ChCyM group was exposed to Ch and Cy and post treated with MeL. Male offspring rats were tested for ontogeny criteria at various points after accouchement. MeL pre- and post-administration reduced the variation in litter size and weight, number of live/dead pups, anogenital distance , crown-rump length, the timing of eye and ear openings, and testicular descent caused by fetal and nutritional co-administration to Ch+Cy in offspring male albino rats. MeL demonstrated preventive promise as a result of its apparent antioxidative capability.
Translation and Validation of the Brief Inventory of Technology Self-Efficacy (BITS): Simplified and Traditional Chinese Versions
Authors: Weigold Arne , Weigold Ingrid K. , Zhang Xiangling , Tang Ning , Chong Yun Kai
Published: May 2023

Computer self-efficacy (CSE) continues to be an important construct in research and application. Two measures of CSE, the Brief Inventory of Technology Self-Efficacy (BITS) and the Brief Inventory of Technology Self-Efficacy – Short Form (BITS-SF) were recently developed to correct for issues in other available measures. The BITS and BITS-SF were originally written in English, and their psychometric properties assessed in samples from the United States. The current two studies translated the BITS and BITS-SF into simplified Chinese (Mainland China) and traditional Chinese (Taiwan) and assessed their psychometric properties. In Study 1, 207 adults in Mainland China completed the simplified Chinese BITS and BITS-SF, as well as measures given to assess convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity. In Study 2, 273 adults in Taiwan did the same, except that they completed the traditional Chinese BITS and BITS-SF. In both studies, the translated BITS showed evidence of a three-factor correlated structure, and the translated BITS-SF yielded several underlying classes consistent with theory and scoring interpretation. Additionally, the translated measures’ scores showed solid evidence of convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity. The results replicate the findings using the original BITS and BITS-SF and extend them to simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese translated versions. These versions are recommended for use in research and applied settings to assess CSE and are available for use. Both the original and translated measures are available for download at www.bitssurvey.com .
Charity and Abuse: Fundraising and Symbolic Power in the Case of Jimmy Savile
Authors: Dean Jon
Published: May 2023

In life, Jimmy Savile was revered as Britain’s greatest charity fundraiser. In death, he is remembered as Britain’s most notorious pedophile. Raising over £40 million for good causes throughout his media career, a year after his death several investigations revealed a history of abuse of hundreds of children, mostly young girls, across the institutions he worked or volunteered at. Using the framework of the symbolic power of charity, this article documents how these crimes were either missed or covered up. Savile used his fundraising prowess and the “good glow” of his reputation to enable his abuse and shield him from discovery. Institutions prioritized their reputation or fundraising income over bad publicity and proper safeguarding. Drawing on a growing critical literature, this is the first article to explore the role of Savile’s charity in his crimes and highlights the increased concern over charity’s role as a tool of reputation laundering for elites.
The assessment of soundscape quality in historic urban parks: A case study of El-Goli Park of Tabriz, Iran
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Negar , Mohammadzadeh Rahmat
Published: May 2023

The preservation of historic sites requires a multisensory approach, in which sound plays an important role. A good acoustic environment could contribute to the aesthetic, ecological, and cultural improvement of historic sites, as well as increase visitor attendance with their surroundings. Due to the unique spatial qualities and social-cultural distinctions of these locations, it seems essential to consider the inherent differences in their soundscapes. The hypothesis of this study is to assess the interrelationships between soundscape evaluations and environmental indicators including visual quality and overall impression as well as the related semantic attributes. The historic El-Goli Park of Tabriz, which is in a semi-natural environment, was evaluated as the field study. Field measurements at sampled locations were conducted to record sound pressure levels (SPL) to generate sound maps. At the same time, a questionnaire survey was used for the subjective assessment of soundscape quality. The main results are as follows: 1. Natural sounds (birds and water) and human sounds (voices and footsteps) are the sounds primarily perceived as dominant and pleasant. 2. For a selected location, the higher the percentage of visitors reporting a pleasant sound (mainly natural sounds), the higher the reported soundscape quality, visual quality, and overall impression. 3. Among the social/demographic/behavioral factors considered, “age” and “time period during a day of visit” were associated with soundscape perception. These results may be helpful for the soundscape of historic city parks and will offer helpful insights into landscape policy and regional acoustic environment planning.
The Interplay of Social, Emotional and Cognitive Factors of Risk Perception and Engagement in Precautionary Behaviours during COVID-19 Lockdown (4.0) in India
Authors: Tyagi Kirti
Published: May 2023

Global health authorities are trying to identify factors that influence people’s behavioural patterns to engage in preventive measures against COVID-19. The study examines the predictors of precautionary behaviours following the socio-emotional-cognitive risk perception model and presents a descriptive picture of people’s risk perception and precautionary behaviours during the COVID-19 lockdown in India. Around 203 participants in the age group of 18–67 years living in different covid active zones of India completed the online survey. Indian participants reported high engagement in various precautionary behaviours, with a high level of awareness and risk perception towards the diseases. Participants also expressed moderate to high level of worry towards the pandemic, with a moderate level of trust in the government’s ability to fight the pandemic. Further, a significant positive relationship was observed between risk severity, perceived personal risk impact, and anxiety towards the pandemic, and between awareness and engagement in precautionary behaviours. Additionally, only cognitive factors of risk perception (e.g., perceived psychological invulnerability and awareness about diseases) were found to be significant predictors for engagement in precautionary behaviours. Therefore, the present study emphasises how health agencies should create risk messages that increase people’s estimation of personal risk and knowledge towards the virus.
Contract Design for Return Products in a Cooperative Closed-Loop Supply Chain
Authors: Ghahremani-Nahr Javid , Nozari Hamed , Aliahmadi Alireza
Published: May 2023

The importance of considering the End-of-life product (EOL) in the closed-loop supply chain network has led it to model a two-echelon closed-loop supply chain network between the retailer and the manufacturer in this article, considering the redemption guarantee. Consumer products to be paid. Therefore, the model is considered in two modes, in which initially the members of the supply chain under a Stakelberg game are competing with each other for pricing on new products, product redemption and wholesale prices. In this (decentralized) scenario, members of the supply chain (retailer and manufacturer) are a percentage increase in their profit function. In this scenario, the producer, after determining the wholesale price as the leader of the game, maximizes the profit from the sale of its products, and then the retailer, as the leader in the game, determines the price of the products and the redemption price. In another (centralized) scenario, the main goal is to increase the profitability of the entire supply chain. This article also examines a contract related to the rate of purchase of returned products and the sale of new products, which encourages supply chain members to work together to increase their profits over a decentralized scenario. The stated materials lead to the design of models in a focused and decentralized scenario. The results of implementing the model on the sample problem show the high efficiency of this type of contract in increasing the profit of supply chain members compared to the decentralized scenario.
Resuscitation in the “Periviable” Period—Commentary of Opposing Views
Authors: Bansal Satvik , Kaushal Monica , Nimbalkar Somashekhar , Bhat Swarnarekha
Published: May 2023

The periviable period is defined as delivery between 20 0/7 weeks and 25 6/7 weeks of gestation. It has long been considered a “gray area,” as there are still no clear guidelines on initial resuscitation and subsequent treatment of the newborn. This lack of guidance compounds the uncertainty in decision-making in low- and middle-income countries with limited resources. The decision to treat or not has far-reaching economic, social, cultural, and sometimes even religious implications for the parents and family. This review explores the perspectives of parents, caregivers, and policymakers in detail to utilize the existing evidence better. We present arguments for and against resuscitation in the periviable period, discussing concerns surrounding neurodevelopmental outcomes, cost, parental concerns, nonuniformity of evidence, and ethical considerations. A large survival gap exists between developed and developing countries, and the infrastructure and clinical care network in low- and middle-income country are not strong enough to provide adequate support for these infants and their families. Antenatal factors, socioeconomic and cultural issues, center capacity, and resuscitation capacity of birthing centers should be considered when making decisions. The neonatologists are expected to be impartial, provide information, and not advise based on their beliefs and outlook; while preserving the autonomy of parents. The only way forward is for parents and caregivers to work together to develop a logical and ethical approach that can be accepted as national and institutional policies.
The Impact of Words: Multisource Feedback Provides Students With a Deeper Understanding and Reflection on Goals of Care Discussions
Authors: Kadden Daniel , Weber Madeline , Herbst Lori , Weber Danielle E.
Published: May 2023

Background: Physician communication during goals of care (GOC) discussions impact experiences for patients and families at end-of-life (EOL). Simulation allows training in a safe environment where feedback from simulated patients (SP), clinicians, and self-reflection can be incorporated. Objectives: To determine if multisource feedback from SP scenarios enriches feedback provided to trainees. Design: Fourth-medical students participated in two SP GOC discussions during an advanced care planning (ACP) curriculum. Students received feedback from SPs and faculty and completed a video review with self-reflection. Setting and Subjects: Forty-seven fourth-year medical students at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine participated in the curriculum from 2019-2021. Measurements: An inductive thematic analysis of the narrative data was performed examining all sources of feedback from the SP sessions. Results: Six themes emerged from the feedback: the warning shot: words to say and why it helps; acknowledging emotion: verbal vs non-verbal responses; organization: necessity of a clear path; body language: adding to and distracting from the conversation; terminology to avoid: what jargon encompasses and how it impacts patients; and silence: perceived importance by everyone. SP feedback focused on the personal emotional impact of a student’s word choice and body language. Faculty feedback focused on specific learning points through examples from the conversation and expanded to hypothetical scenarios. Student self-reflection after video review allowed students to see challenges that they did not notice while immersed in the encounter. Conclusion: Multisource feedback from simulated GOC discussions provides unique insights for students to guide their development in leading difficult conversations.
Personality Traits and Resilience of People with Bereaved Experiences Due to COVID-19: Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy
Authors: Subhasree Geddam , Eapen Jojo Chacko , Jeyavel Sundaramoorthy , DP Deepthi
Published: May 2023

Worldwide, the mortality due to SARS-CoV-2 has been inclined to around 68 million by the end of January 2023. Many people lost their family members due to the virus attack or its comorbid complications. Mourning the loss of a loved one is a painful time, but the ability to handle this stress may vary from person to person. It could be a result of their personality traits and inner capabilities, such as self-efficacy. This study aimed to understand the role of personality traits and self-efficacy on the resilience of bereaved individuals. Convenience sampling was employed to recruit a total of 237 participants who had lost loved ones to COVID-19 (father, mother, grandfather, grandmother, uncle, aunt, and distant relatives). After explaining the objective of the study and taking informed consent, they were administered using brief resilience scale, a big five personality inventory, and general self-efficacy questionnaire. Self-efficacy and resilience were found to have a positive correlation, while neuroticism and resilience had a negative correlation. In addition, the mediation analysis revealed that self-efficacy acted as an important mediator between personality traits (Openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism) and resilience. Individuals with strong self-efficacy were able to return to their usual state more quickly than those with low self-efficacy, as indicated by the results. However, attributes such as openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness, together with self-efficacy, might enhance resilience. Therefore, the study strongly suggests incorporating self-efficacy into the design of therapeutic programs for coping with bereavement.
Predictors of Opportunistic Infections among HIV-infected Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hailu Gebru Tsegu , Hagos Mekonen Haftea , Gemechu Kbrom , Gebremedhin Haftom Tesfay , Tadesse Beyene , Tesfamichael Yohannes Ashebir
Published: May 2023

Opportunistic infections (OIs) are diseases that cause infections in people whose immune systems are compromised. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of OIs and associated factors among HIV-infected patients. Institutional-based cross-sectional study was done in Eastern Zone, Tigray, Ethiopia. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from 394 study participants through an interview method. The required sample size was determined using a single population proportion formula. Participants were selected using a systematic random sampling method. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to find factors at p < .05. The prevalence of OIs was found to be 52% (95% CI [47.5, 57.1]). Occupation, CD4+ count, adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and functional status were independently associated with OIs. Intervention measures such as improving adherence to ART should be strengthened to further reduce the burden of OIs.
Risk Factors for Delayed Diagnosis of Positional Plagiocephaly: A Review of 25,322 Patients
Authors: Munabi Naikhoba C.O. , Nelson Michael S. , Francis Stacey H.
Published: May 2023

Objective

This study identifies risk factors for late positional plagiocephaly (PP) diagnosis and impact on helmet therapy.

Design

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients diagnosed with PP over 10 years at five Southern California hospitals.

Setting

Patients diagnosed with PP at an included hospital.

Patients

25,332 patients were diagnosed with PP over 10 years.

Interventions

Patients diagnosed with PP early (< = 6 months) and late (>6 months) were compared.

Main Outcome Measures

Cohorts were evaluated for demographics, gestational history, associated conditions, and hospitalizations through direct comparison, logistic regression, and correlation analyses. Rates of referrals and helmet orders were compared.

Results

Of patients reviewed, 4.8% (n  =  1216) were diagnosed late. On multivariate analysis, late diagnoses were more likely Hispanic or Black/African-American. Early gestational age, hydrocephalus, and VP shunt were more frequent in late diagnoses. Patients diagnosed late had longer NICU and overall hospital stays. Earlier gestational age, longer NICU or overall hospital stay correlated with later age at PP diagnosis. 8.9% of patients were referred for helmet therapy evaluation. Patients diagnosed late were 2.63 and 1.64 times as likely to be referred and require helmet therapy, respectively.

Conclusions

Patients who are Hispanic or Black/African-American, premature, have hydrocephalus, or VP shunt have higher rates of delayed PP diagnosis. Shorter gestational age or longer NICU or hospital stay correlates with later diagnosis, which increases helmet therapy requirements. Additional interventions are needed for at risk patients to routinely evaluate for and minimize the risk of developing PP.