bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Causal inference in suicide research: When you should (and should not!) control for extraneous variables
Authors: Cero Ian , Mitchell Sean M. , Morris Nicole M. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractObjectiveAlthough causal inference is often straightforward in experimental contexts, few research questions in suicide are amenable to experimental manipulation and randomized control. Instead, suicide prevention specialists must rely on observational data and statistical control of confounding variables to make effective causal inferences. We provide a brief summary of recent covariate practice and a tutorial on casual inference tools for covariate selection in suicide research.MethodWe provide an introduction to modern causal inference tools, suggestions for statistical control selection, and demonstrations using simulated data.ResultsStatistical controls are often mistakenly selected due to their significant correlation with other study variables, their consistency with previous research, or no explicit reason at all. We clarify what it means to control for a variable and when controlling for the wrong covariates systematically distorts results. We describe directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) and tools for identifying the right choice of covariates. Finally, we provide four best practices for integrating causal inference tools in future studies.ConclusionThe use of causal model tools, such as DAGs, allows researchers to carefully and thoughtfully select statistical controls and avoid presenting distorted findings; however, limitations of this approach are discussed.
Coalition‐building and the forging of solidarity across difference and inequality
Authors: Gawerc Michelle I. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractDiverse coalitions hold great potential for social movements, but they also face tremendous challenges. In this article, I review the literature on diverse alliances with a focus on how trust, commitment, and ultimately, solidarity can be developed and sustained across divides. The article begins by discussing the needs of diverse alliances to build trust and commitment, and the coalitional characteristics deemed vital for doing so, with a focus on shared neutral space, ongoing interaction, and social ties and bridgebuilders. Five coalitional processes and practices are identified and discussed that have been empirically found or theorized to be imperative for cultivating solidarity across difference and inequality. These processes include (a) uniting around shared principles while engaging difference; (b) acknowledging and managing inequalities; (c) making space for each other; (d) attention to managing conflicts; and (e) actions that confirm the shared commitments and negotiated identity. I conclude by evaluating the state of research on developing and sustaining alliances across divides.
The Transferability of Out‐Group Contact: Does Knowing a Member of the LGBT Community Improve Feelings Toward Racial Minorities, Muslims, and Immigrants?
Authors: Lindsay Spencer 
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveThis article seeks to establish a positive relationship between in‐group contact with members of one particular out‐group and affect toward all out‐groups. I hope to provide early evidence that contact with one specific out‐group may have a transferable effect on feelings toward all out‐groups.MethodsUsing data from the American National Election Study, I use a series of regression models to estimate the effect of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual (LGBT) contact on authoritarianism, social dominance orientation, and ethnocentrism as well as feeling thermometers toward Muslims, undocumented immigrants, Latinos, Asian Americans, and blacks. I also analyze the effect of LGBT contact on political issues that affect other out‐groups.ResultsI find that contact with a member of the LGBT community is negatively associated with ethnocentrism, authoritarianism, and social dominance orientation. It is also positively associated with feelings toward Muslims, undocumented immigrants, and racial minorities. It also seems to be correlated with political positions that affect these groups, though these results are less robust.ConclusionsThis article provides preliminary support for the hypothesis that out‐group contact has transferable effects. It suggests that contact with members of one out‐group may affect how in‐group members see all out‐groups.
Impact-Induced Cortical Strain Concentrations at the Sulcal Base and Its Implications for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Ashley , Xu Sheng , Frei Hanspeter , Banton Rohan , Piehler Thuvan , Petel Oren E. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This study investigated impact-induced strain fields within brain tissue surrogates having different cortical gyrification. Two elastomeric surrogates, one representative of a lissencephalic brain and the other of a gyrencephalic brain, were drop impacted in unison at four different heights and in two different orientations. Each surrogate contained a radiopaque speckle pattern that was used to calculate strain fields. Two different approaches, digital image correlation (DIC) and a particle tracking method, enabled comparisons of full-field and localized strain responses. The DIC results demonstrated increased localized deviations from the mean strain field in the surrogate with a gyrified cortex. Particle tracking algorithms, defining four-node quadrilateral elements, were used to investigate the differences in the strain response of three regions: the base of a sulcus, the adjacent gyrus, and the internal capsule of the surrogates. The results demonstrated that the strains in the cortex were concentrated at the sulcal base. This mechanical mechanism of increased strain is consistent with neurodegenerative markers observed in postmortem analyses, suggesting a potential mechanism of local damage due to strain amplification at the sulcal bases in gyrencephalic brains. This strain amplification mechanism may be responsible for cumulative neurodegeneration from repeated subconcussive impacts. The observed results suggest that lissencephalic animal models, such as rodents, would not have the same modes of injury present in a gyrencephalic brain, such as that of a human. As such, a shift toward representative mild traumatic brain injury animal models having gyrencephalic cortical structures should be strongly considered.
Lattice Structure Optimization With Orientation-Dependent Material Properties
Authors: Sharpe Conner , Seepersad Carolyn C. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Advances in additive manufacturing (AM) techniques have enabled the production of parts with complex internal geometries. However, the layer-based nature of additive processes often results in mechanical properties that vary based on the orientation of the feature relative to the build plane. Lattice structures have been a popular design application for additive manufacturing due to their potential uses in lightweight structural applications. Many recent works have explored the modeling, design, and fabrication challenges that arise in the multiscale setting of lattice structures. However, there remains a significant challenge in bridging the simplified computational models used in the design process and the more complex properties actually realized in fabrication. This study develops a design approach that captures orientation-dependent material properties that have been observed in metal AM processes, while remaining suitable for use in an iterative design process. Exemplar problems are utilized to investigate the potential design changes and performance improvements that can be attained by taking the directional dependence of the manufacturing process into account in the design of lattice structures.
No ring fracture in Mono Basin, California
Authors: Hildreth Wes , Fierstein Judy , Ryan-Davis Juliet 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn Mono Basin, California, USA, a near-circular ring fracture 12 km in diameter was proposed by R.W. Kistler in 1966 to have originated as the protoclastic margin of the Cretaceous Aeolian Buttes pluton, to have been reactivated in the middle Pleistocene, and to have influenced the arcuate trend of the chain of 30 young (62–0.7 ka) rhyolite domes called the Mono Craters. In view of the frequency and recency of explosive eruptions along the Mono chain, and because many geophysicists accepted the ring fracture model, we assembled evidence to test its plausibility. The shear zone interpreted as the margin of the Aeolian Buttes pluton by Kistler is 50–400 m wide but is exposed only along a 7-km-long set of four southwesterly outcrops that subtend only a 70° sector of the proposed ring. The southeast end of the exposed shear zone is largely within the older June Lake pluton, and at its northwest end, the contact of the Aeolian Buttes pluton with a much older one crosses the shear zone obliquely. Conflicting attitudes of shear structures are hard to reconcile with intrusive protoclasis. Also inconsistent with the margin of the ovoid intrusion proposed by Kistler, unsheared salients of the pluton extend ∼1 km north of its postulated circular outline at Williams Butte, where there is no fault or other structure to define the northern half of the hypothetical ring. The shear zone may represent regional Cretaceous transpression rather than the margin of a single intrusion. There is no evidence for the Aeolian Buttes pluton along the aqueduct tunnel beneath the Mono chain, nor is there evidence for a fault that could have influenced its vent pattern. The apparently arcuate chain actually consists of three linear segments that reflect Quaternary tectonic influence and not Cretaceous inheritance. A rhyolitic magma reservoir under the central segment of the Mono chain has erupted many times in the late Holocene and as recently as 700 years ago. The ring fracture idea, however, prompted several geophysical investigations that sought a much broader magma body, but none identified a low-density or low-velocity anomaly beneath the purported 12-km-wide ring, which we conclude does not exist.
Impact of in-season injury on quality of life and sleep duration in female youth volleyball athletes: a prospective study of 2073 players
Authors: Watson Andrew , Biese Kevin , Kliethermes Stephanie A , Post Eric , Brooks M Alison , Lang Pamela J , Bell David R , Haraldsdottir Kristin , McGuine Timothy 
Published: February 2021

ObjectivesThe psychological impacts of injuries in youth athletes remain poorly defined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of injury on quality of life (QOL) and sleep in female high school volleyball athletes.Methods2073 female high school volleyball players (15.6±1.1 years) completed the Pediatric Quality of Life survey (total QOL, physical, social, school, emotional and psychosocial function) and reported average sleep duration at the start and end of the season. Injury data were collected by school athletic trainers. Mixed effects linear regression models were used to compare changes in QOL and sleep duration during the season between (1) injured and uninjured athletes and (2) injured athletes who did or did not suffer a season-ending injury.ResultsTime-loss injuries were reported in 187 athletes with complete preseason and postseason data. During the season, injured athletes demonstrated a greater decrease in total QOL (β=−1.3±0.5, p=0.012), as well as physical function (β=−1.6±0.6, p=0.012), school function (β=−2.0±0.76, p=0.01) and psychosocial function domains (β=−1.2±0.6, p=0.039) compared with uninjured athletes. Athletes who sustained a season-ending injury had a significantly greater decrease in total QOL (β=−6.8±2.0, p=0.006) and physical function (β=-17±2.9, p<0.001) compared with injured athletes who were able to return to play during the season.ConclusionIn-season injuries are associated with significant decreases in total QOL as well as physical and psychosocial function. Healthcare providers should consider the impacts of injuries on QOL and sleep in youth athletes in order to optimise management and improve overall health.
Multilevel clustering approach driven by continuous glucose monitoring data for further classification of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Tao Rui , Yu Xia , Lu Jingyi , Shen Yun , Lu Wei , Zhu Wei , Bao Yuqian , Li Hongru , Zhou Jian 
Published: February 2021

IntroductionMining knowledge from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data to classify highly heterogeneous patients with type 2 diabetes according to their characteristics remains unaddressed. A refined clustering method that retrieves hidden information from CGM data could provide a viable method to identify patients with different degrees of dysglycemia and clinical phenotypes.Research design and methodsFrom Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, we selected 908 patients with type 2 diabetes (18–83 years) who wore blinded CGM sensors (iPro2, Medtronic, California, USA). Participants were clustered based on CGM data during a 24-hour period by our method. The first level extracted the knowledge-based and statistics-based features to describe CGM signals from multiple perspectives. The Fisher score and variables cluster analysis were applied to fuse features into low dimensions at the second level. The third level divided subjects into subgroups with different clinical phenotypes. The four subgroups of patients were determined by clinical phenotypes.ResultsFour subgroups of patients with type 2 diabetes with significantly different statistical features and clinical phenotypes were identified by our method. In particular, individuals in cluster 1 were characterized by the lowest glucose level factor and glucose fluctuation factor, and the highest negative glucose factor and C peptide index. By contrast, cluster 2 had the highest glucose level factor and the lowest C peptide index. Cluster 4 was characterized by the greatest degree of glucose fluctuation factor, was the most insulin-sensitive, and had the lowest insulin resistance. Cluster 3 ranked in the middle concerning the CGM-derived metrics and clinical phenotypes compared with those of the other three groups.ConclusionA novel multilevel clustering approach for knowledge mining from CGM data in type 2 diabetes is presented. The results demonstrate that subgroups are adequately distinguished with notable statistical and clinical differences.
Glucolipotoxicity and GLP-1 secretion
Authors: Hong Jung-Hee , Kim Dae-Hee , Lee Moon-Kyu 
Published: February 2021

IntroductionThe concept of glucolipotoxicity refers to the combined, deleterious effects of elevated glucose and/or fatty acid levels.Research design and methodsTo investigate the effects of chronic glucolipotoxicity on glucagon-like peptide-1-(7-36) amide (GLP-1) secretion, we generated glucolipotoxic conditions in human NCI-H716 enteroendocrine cells using either 5 or 25 mM glucose with or without 500 µM palmitate for 72 hours. For in vivo study, we have established a chronic nutrient infusion model in the rat. Serial blood samples were collected for 2 hours after the consumption of a mixed meal to evaluate insulin sensitivity and β-cell function.ResultsChronic glucolipotoxic conditions decreased GLP-1 secretion and the expressions of pCREB, pGSK3β, β-catenin, and TCF7L2 in NCI-H716 cells. Glucolipotoxicity conditions reduced glucose transporter expression, glucose uptake, and nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) levels in L-cells, and increased triglyceride accumulation. In contrast, PPARα and ATP levels were reduced, which correlated well with decreased levels of SUR1 and Kir6.2, cAMP contents and expressions of pCAMK2, EPAC and PKA. We also observed an increase in reactive oxygen species production, UCP2 expression and Complex I activity. Simultaneous treatment with insulin restored the GLP-1 secretion. Glucolipotoxic conditions decreased insulin secretion in a time-dependent manner in INS-1 cells, which was recovered with exendin-4 cotreatment. Glucose and SMOFlipid infusion for 6 hours decreased GLP-1 secretion and proglucagon mRNA levels as well as impaired the glucose tolerance, insulin and C-peptide secretion in rats.ConclusionThese results provide evidence for the first time that glucolipotoxicity could affect GLP-1 secretion through changes in glucose and lipid metabolism, gene expressions, and proglucagon biosynthesis and suggest the interrelationship between glucolipotoxicities of L-cells and β-cells which develops earlier than that of L-cells.
Scoping and testing rural acute care at home: a simulation analysis
Authors: Levine David M , Desai Meghna P , Ross Joseph B , Como Natalie , Holley Steve 
Published: February 2021

PurposeHospital-level care provided at home improves patient outcomes, yet nearly all programmes function in urban environments. It remains unknown whether rural home hospital care can be feasibly delivered.MethodsBased on prior stakeholder learning and detailed landscape analyses of various rural areas across the country, we re-engineered the workflows, personnel and technology needed to respond to many of the challenges of delivering acute care in rural homes. We performed a preliminary ‘mock admission’ in a simulation laboratory with actor feedback, followed by mock admissions in rural homes in Utah of chronically ill patients who feigned acute illness. We employed rapid cycle feedback from clinicians, patients and their caregivers and qualitative analysis of participant feedback.FindingsFollowing rapid cycle feedback in the simulation laboratory and rural homes, mock admission, daily rounds and discharge were successfully conducted. Technology performed to laboratory-determined specifications but presented challenges. Patients noted significant comfort with and preference for rural home hospital care, while clinicians also preferred the model with the caveat that proper patient selection was paramount. Patients and clinicians perceived rural home hospital as safe. Clinicians noted rural home hospital workflows were feasible after streamlining remote and in-home roles.ConclusionsRural home hospital care is technically feasible, well-received and desired. It requires testing with acutely ill adults in rural settings.
Parents’ willingness to pay for children’s spectacles in Cambodia
Authors: Burnett Anthea , Paudel Prakash , Massie Jessica , Kong Neath , Kunthea Ek , Thomas Varghese , Fricke Tim R , Lee Ling 
Published: February 2021

Background/aimTo determine willingness to pay for children’s spectacles, and barriers to purchasing children’s spectacles in Cambodia.MethodsWe conducted vision screenings, and eye examinations as indicated, for all consenting children at 21 randomly selected secondary schools. We invited parents/guardians of children found to have refractive problems to complete a willingness to pay for spectacles survey, using a binary-with-follow-up technique.ResultsWe conducted vision screenings on 12 128 secondary schoolchildren, and willingness to pay for spectacles surveys with 491 parents/guardians (n=491) from Kandal and Phnom Penh provinces in Cambodia. We found 519 children with refractive error, 7 who had pre-existing spectacles and 14 recommended spectacles for lower ametropias. About half (53.2%; 95% CI 44.0% to 62.1%) of parents/guardians were willing to pay KHR70 000 (US$17.5; average market price) or more for spectacles. Mean willingness-to-pay price was KHR74 595 (US$18.6; 95% CI KHR64 505 to 86 262; 95% CI US$16.1 to US$21.6) in Phnom Penh and KHR55 651 (US$13.9; 95% CI KHR48 021 to 64 494; 95% CI US$12.0 to US$16.1) in Kandal province. Logistic regression suggested parents/guardians with college education (OR 6.8; p<0.001), higher household incomes (OR 8.0; p=0.006) and those wearing spectacles (OR 2.2; p=0.01) were more likely to be willing to pay ≥US$17.5. The most common reasons for being unwilling to pay US$17.5 were related to cost (58.8%). The most common barrier to spectacle wear was fear that spectacles weaken children’s eyes (36.0%).ConclusionsWith almost half of parents/guardians unwilling to pay for spectacles at the current average market price, financial support through a subsidised spectacle scheme might be required for children to access spectacles in Cambodia.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 infectivity of upper respiratory specimens from COVID-19 patients by virus isolation using VeroE6/TMPRSS2 cells
Authors: Yamada Souichi , Fukushi Shuetsu , Kinoshita Hitomi , Ohnishi Makoto , Suzuki Tadaki , Fujimoto Tsuguto , Saijo Masayuki , Maeda Ken 
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAn outbreak of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)-associated respiratory infectious diseases (COVID-19) emerged in 2019 and has spread rapidly in humans around the world. The demonstration of in vitro infectiousness of respiratory specimens is an informative surrogate for SARS-CoV-2 transmission from patients with COVID-19; accordingly, viral isolation assays in cell culture are an important aspect of laboratory diagnostics for COVID-19.MethodsWe developed a simple and rapid protocol for isolating SARS-CoV-2 from respiratory specimens using VeroE6/TMPRSS2 cells, a cell line that is highly susceptible to the virus. We also investigated a correlation between isolation of SARS-CoV-2 and viral load detected by real-time RT-PCR (rRT-PCR) using N2 primer/probe set that has been developed for testing of COVID-19 in Japan.ResultsThe SARS-CoV-2 isolation protocol did not require blind passage of inoculated cells and yielded the results of viral isolation within 7 days after inoculation. Specimens with cycle threshold (Ct) values of <20.2, determined by rRT-PCR, were predicted to be isolation-positive. On the other hand, 6.9% of specimens with Ct values >35 were virus isolation-positive, indicating that low viral loads (high Ct values) in upper respiratory specimens do not always indicate no risk of containing transmissible virus.ConclusionIn combination with rRT-PCR, the SARS-CoV-2 isolation protocol provides a means for assessing the potential risk of transmissible virus in upper respiratory specimens.
Quantification of the effect of body mass index on cricothyroid membrane depth: a cross-sectional analysis of clinical CT images
Authors: Ghaffar Sadia , Blankenstein Tom Nicholas , Patel Dilip , Theodosiou Catherine , Griffith David 
Published: February 2021

ObjectivesThe recommended front of neck access procedure in can’t intubate, can’t oxygenate scenarios relies on palpation of the cricothyroid membrane (CTM), or dissection of the neck down to the larynx if CTM is impalpable. CTM palpation is particularly challenging in obese patients, most likely due to an increased distance between the skin and the CTM (CTM depth). The aims of this study were to measure the CTM depth in a representative clinical sample, and to quantify the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and CTM depth.MethodsThis is a retrospective analysis of 355 clinical CT scans performed at a teaching hospital over an 8-month period. CTM depth was measured by two radiologists, and mean CTM depth calculated. Age, gender, height and weight were recorded, and BMI calculated. Linear relationships between patient characteristics and CTM depth were assessed in order to derive a predictive equation for calculating CTM depth. The variables included for this model were those with a strong association with CTM depth, that is, a p value of 0.10 or less.ResultsMean CTM depth was 8.12 mm (IQR 6.36–11.70). There was no association between CTM depth and sex (β −0.33, 95% CI −1.33 to 0.68, p=0.53), height (cm) (β 0.01, 95% CI −0.05 to 0.06, p=0.79) or age (years) (β −0.01, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.15, p=0.62). Increasing weight (kg) (β 0.12, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.15, p<0.001) and BMI (kg/m3) (β 0.52, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.60, p<0.001) were strongly associated with CTM depth. Predicted CTM depth increased from 6.4 mm (95% CI 4.9 to 8.1) at a BMI of 20 kg/m2to 16.8 (95% CI 13.7 to 20.1) at BMI 40 kg/m2.ConclusionCTM depth was strongly associated with BMI in a retrospective analysis of patients having clinical CT scans.