bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the association between post–critical incident intervention preferences and self‐reported coping self‐efficacy among firefighters
Authors: Sarabia Joselyn R. , Dellor Elinam , Freisthler Bridget , Kieninger Katherine 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCritical incident stress debriefing (CISD) is a commonly utilized intervention in the fire service that aims to minimize psychological harm and adverse mental health outcomes after a potentially traumatic incident. This study aimed to explore firefighter preferences regarding CISD and alternative post–critical incident interventions in relation to firefighter coping self‐efficacy (FFCSE) and trauma coping self‐efficacy (CSE‐T). Firefighters (N = 241) completed an online survey and provided complete data. Most participants were White (n = 203, 84.2%), non‐Hispanic (n = 221, 91.7%) men (94.2%; n = 227). CISD was the most preferred intervention among firefighters (n = 113, 46.9%) as compared to informal peer support (n = 31, 12.9%), formal one‐on‐one counseling (n = 29, 12.0%), and no intervention (n = 68, 28.2%). Firefighters who preferred CISD had statistically significant lower levels of FFCSE, R2 = .033–.044, ps = .012–.030, and CSE‐T, R2 = .035–.061 ps = .017–.024, compared to those who preferred no intervention. Firefighters who preferred formal one‐on‐one counseling had statistically significantly lower levels of FFCSE, R2 = .033–.044, ps = .003–.011, and CSE‐T, R2 = .035–0.061, p < .001–p = .002, compared to those who preferred no intervention. The findings from this study may guide future research to increase knowledge on firefighter intervention preferences and the association between preference and coping self‐efficacy.
Normalized solutions to nonlinear Schrödinger equations with competing Hartree‐type nonlinearities
Authors: Bhimani Divyang , Gou Tianxiang , Hajaiej Hichem 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we consider solutions to the following nonlinear Schrödinger equation with competing Hartree‐type nonlinearities,
under the ‐norm constraint
where , , and appearing as Lagrange multiplier is unknown. First, we establish the existence of ground states in the mass subcritical, critical, and supercritical cases. Then, we consider the well‐posedness and dynamical behaviors of solutions to the Cauchy problem for the associated time‐dependent equations.
Convexity properties of Yoshikawa–Sparr interpolation spaces
Authors: Aleksandrowicz Karol , Prus Stanisław 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe study stability of the three geometric properties: uniform convexity, nearly uniform convexity, and property under the Yoshikawa–Sparr interpolation method when the resulting interpolation space is considered with various equivalent norms. We give an example which shows that interpolation spaces obtained by the discrete and continuous versions of the method need not be isometric and present a method of transferring geometric properties from the discrete case to the continuous one.
Microglial Activation and Progression of Nigrostriatal Dysfunction in Isolated REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Authors: Stær Kristian , Iranzo Alex , Stokholm Morten Gersel , Hvingelby Victor S. , Danielsen Erik Hvid , Østergaard Karen , Serradell Mónica , Otto Marit , Svendsen Kristina B. , Garrido Alicia , Vilas Dolores , Santamaria Joan , Møller Arne , Gaig Carles , Brooks David J. , Borghammer Per , Tolosa Eduardo , Pavese Nicola 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundUsing 11C‐(R)‐PK11195‐PET, we found increased microglia activation in isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) patients. Their role remains to be clarified.ObjectivesThe objective is to assess relationships between activated microglia and progression of nigrostriatal dysfunction in iRBD.MethodsFifteen iRBD patients previously scanned with 11C‐(R)‐PK11195 and 18F‐DOPA‐PET underwent repeat 18F‐DOPA‐PET after 3 years. 18F‐DOPA Ki changes from baseline were evaluated with volumes‐of‐interest and voxel‐based analyses.ResultsSignificant 18F‐DOPA Ki reductions were found in putamen and caudate. Reductions were larger and more widespread in patients with increased nigral microglia activation at baseline. Left nigral 11C‐(R)‐PK11195 binding at baseline was a predictor of 18F‐DOPA Ki reduction in left caudate (coef = −0.0426, P = 0.016).ConclusionsSubjects with increased baseline 11C‐(R)‐PK11195 binding have greater changes in nigrostriatal function, suggesting a detrimental rather than protective effect of microglial activation. Alternatively, both phenomena occur in patients with prominent nigrostriatal dysfunction without a causative link. The clinical and therapeutic implications of these findings need further elucidation. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Fog climatology at Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Authors: Hao Ran , Lyu Rui , Hao Xue , Yi Jun , Wang Weijie , Cheng Tiantao , Xu Bo 
Published: March 2024

AbstractUsing 22‐year ground observations on meteorological variables, we conducted a statistical analysis to reveal fog characteristics at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (SPIA). Fog events were classified by fog types using an objective method. Two types of advection fogs are dominant in fog events at SPIA, followed by radiation fogs. Different fogs have evident annual and monthly variations in frequency. Advection fog mostly appear from February to April, while radiation fog is mainly between November and February. Six synoptic patterns associated with fogs were determine by a self‐organizing maps cluster method, two of which, namely ‘west of marine high pressure’ and ‘inverted trough’, are most favourable for the formation of advection fogs, whereas ‘bottom of weak cold high‐pressure’ is favourable for radiation fogs. The frequency of advection fog occurrence exhibits temporal fluctuations with distinct peaks occurring 2–3 h after sunset, around midnight, and 1–2 h before sunrise, while almost all radiation fog occur in the second half of the night, and favourable conditions for fog onset become more effective with the length of the night. Radiation fog exhibits a longer duration than advection fog and tends to result in lower visibility. The prevalent wind direction for the formation of advection fog is generally from the east to the southeast, whereas radiation fog is typically associated with westerly winds. The temperature and air pressure during the formation of both advection and radiation fogs follow a normal distribution in most seasons. More fog characteristics were categorized by fog types and seasons.
Assessing gambling disorder using frequency‐ and time‐based response options: A Rasch analysis of the gambling disorder identification test
Authors: Molander Olof , Wennberg Peter , Dowling Nicki A. , Berman Anne H. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractObjectivesThe Gambling Disorder Identification Test (GDIT) is a recently developed self‐report measure. The GDIT includes items with multiple response options that are either based on frequency or time, and item response theory evaluations of these could yield vital knowledge on its measurement performance.MethodsThe GDIT was evaluated using Rasch analysis in a study involving 597 Swedish gamblers.ResultsIn a three‐dimensional Rasch model, the item response difficulty range extended from −1.88 to 4.06 and increased with higher time‐ and frequency‐based responses. Differential item functioning showed that some GDIT items displayed age and gender‐related differences. Additionally, person‐separation reliability indicated the GDIT could reliably be divided into three to four diagnostic levels.ConclusionsThe frequency‐ and time‐based item response options of the GDIT offer excellent measurement, allowing for elaborate assessment across both lower and higher gambling severity. The GDIT can be used to detect DSM‐5 Gambling Disorder, thereby holding significance from both epidemiological and clinical standpoints. Notably, the 3‐item GDIT Gambling Behavior subscale also shows potential as a brief screening tool for identifying at‐risk gambling behavior.
Neuromuscular consequences of spinal cord injury: New mechanistic insights and clinical considerations
Authors: Debenham Mathew I. B. , Franz Colin K. , Berger Michael J. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe spinal cord facilitates communication between the brain and the body, containing intrinsic systems that work with lower motor neurons (LMNs) to manage movement. Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can lead to partial paralysis and dysfunctions in muscles below the injury. While traditionally this paralysis has been attributed to disruptions in the corticospinal tract, a growing body of work demonstrates LMN damage is a factor. Motor units, comprising the LMN and the muscle fibers with which they connect, are essential for voluntary movement. Our understanding of their changes post‐SCI is still emerging, but the health of motor units is vital, especially when considering innovative SCI treatments like nerve transfer surgery. This review seeks to collate current literature on how SCI impact motor units and explore neuromuscular clinical implications and treatment avenues. SCI reduced motor unit number estimates, and surviving motor units had impaired signal transmission at the neuromuscular junction, force‐generating capacity, and excitability, which have the potential to recover chronically, yet the underlaying mechanisms are unclear. Furthermore, electrodiagnostic evaluations can aid in assessing the health lower and upper motor neurons, identify suitable targets for nerve transfer surgeries, and detect patients with time sensitive injuries. Lastly, many electrodiagnostic abnormalities occur in both chronic and acute SCI, yet factors contributing to these abnormalities are unknown. Future studies are required to determine how motor units adapt following SCI and the clinical implications of these adaptations.
Fast explicit time integration schemes for parabolic problems in mechanics
Authors: Oñate Eugenio , Zárate Francisco , Gimenez Juan M. , Lohner Rainald , Idelsohn Sergio R. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe present a family of fast explicit time integration schemes of first, second and third order accuracy for parabolic problems in mechanics solved via standard numerical methods that have considerable higher computational efficiency versus existing explicit methods of the same order. The derivation of the new explicit schemes is inspired on the finite increment calculus (FIC) procedure used for obtaining stabilized numerical schemes in fluid and solid mechanics. The new (so‐called) explicit FIC‐Time (EFT) schemes allow considerable larger time steps than the standard first order forward Euler (FE) scheme and the second and third order Adams–Bashforth schemes. The comparison with Runge–Kutta schemes also favors the FIC‐Time schemes in terms of the limit time step size (for second order schemes) and the total number of matrix‐vector multiplications per time step (for second and third order schemes). The new first order explicit schemes have a faster convergence to steady‐state than the FE scheme. The accuracy and efficiency of the new EFT schemes are verified in examples of application to the transient heat conduction equation using the finite element method.
Synthesis of Mono‐, Di‐, Tri‐, and Tetra‐cationic Pyridinium and Vinylpyridinium Modified [2.2]Paracyclophanes: Modular Receptors for Supramolecular Systems
Authors: Wang Yichuan , Li Yuting , Fuhr Olaf , Nieger Martin , Hassan Zahid , Bräse Stefan 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this report, a new series of mono‐, di‐, tri‐, and tetra‐cationic pyridinium and vinyl pyridinium‐modified [2.2]paracyclophanes as useful molecular tectons for supramolecular systems are described. Regioselective functionalization at specific positions, followed by resolution step and successive transformations through Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura and Mizoroki‐Heck cross‐coupling chemistry furnish a series of modular PCP scaffolds. In our proof‐of‐concept study, on N‐methylation, the PCPs bearing (cationic) pyridyl functionalities were demonstrated as useful molecular receptors in host‐guest supramolecular assays. The PCPs on grafting with light‐responsive azobenzene (−N=N−) functional core as side‐groups impart photosensitivity that can be remotely transformed on irradiation, offering photo‐controlled smart molecular functions. Furthermore, the symmetrical PCPs bearing bi‐, and tetra‐pyridyl functionalities at the peripheries have enormous potential to serve as ditopic and tetratopic 3D molecular tectons for engineering non‐covalent supramolecular assemblies with new structural and functional attributes.
Gender discrimination and merit‐based selection: A case study of Mexico
Authors: Chudnovsky Mariana , Castañeda Farill Carmen E. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDoes the merit‐based selection process help to reduce gender discrimination in public administrations? To answer this question, we conducted an in‐depth case study in Mexico and built two original databases for analysis. First, we measure vertical and horizontal discrimination, and second, we examine merit‐based competitions for access to upper management levels of the Mexican public administration to explore their role in reproducing gender discrimination. We find the existence of both vertical and horizontal segregation, and the analysis of merit‐based competition results shows that women have difficulty winning competitions for the highest hierarchical levels and traditionally male sectors. Based on these findings, we explore the role of merit‐based competitions in reproducing gender discrimination. Finally, we urge for the inclusion of a gender perspective in public service reforms in Latin America.
ZnO nanoparticles: A sustainable fabrication enhanced by eggshell waste and its germicidal, anti‐proliferative, and photodecomposition properties
Authors: Vijayakumar S. , Pandidurai S. , Wadaan Mohammad Ahmad , Mythili R. , Santhosh D. , Balamurali N. , Vidhya E. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractRecently, there has been a lot of interest in the fabrication of metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) due to the growing importance of developing recyclable assets, affordable methods, sustainable substances, and safe compounds. The current study demonstrates the environmentally friendly fabrication of ZnO NPs through the use of an aqueous extract derived from discarded eggshells. The analysis of ZnO NPs involved the use of UV, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) with EDX techniques. The anti‐germs effects of fabricated NPs on pathogens were investigated using the agar diffusion technique. The cell‐damaging effects were assessed using the MTT assay, whereas the photodecomposition capacity was examined with Congo red and methylene blue dye. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed the existence of tetragonal crystal morphology. The generated ZnO NPs have a crystallite size of 17.6 nm. According to FE‐SEM examination, the created sample's average grain size has been determined to be between 20 and 30 nm. The sustainable production of ZnO NPs showed remarkable anti‐germs properties against human pathogenic organisms and had good efficacy in damaging Osteosarcoma cell lines (MG‐63) during the experiment. Additionally, it emerged that the manifestation of remarkable catalytic efficiency fell by 78.1% after 60 min for methylene blue. Based on the findings, it has been determined that sustainable production of ZnO NPs shows great potential across multiple fields such as anti‐germs, anti‐proliferative, and photodecomposition properties.
Medicine utilization studies in Australian individual‐level dispensing data: A blinded, multi‐center replicated analysis
Authors: Gillies Malcolm B. , Bharat Chrianna , Camacho Ximena , Daniels Benjamin , Hall Kelly , Kelly Thu‐Lan , Kelty Erin , Lin Jialing , Litchfield Melisa , Lopez Derrick , Noghrehchi Firouzeh , Raubenheimer Jacques , Varney Bianca , Pratt Nicole 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPurposeMedicine dispensing data require extensive preparation when used for research and decisions during this process may lead to results that do not replicate between independent studies. We conducted an experiment to examine the impact of these decisions on results of a study measuring discontinuation, intensification, and switching in a cohort of patients initiating metformin.MethodsFour Australian sites independently developed a HARmonized Protocol template to Enhance Reproducibility (HARPER) protocol and executed their analyses using the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme 10% sample dataset. Each site calculated cohort size and demographics and measured treatment events including discontinuation, switch to another diabetes medicine, and intensification (addition of another diabetes medicine). Time to event and hazard ratios for associations between cohort characteristics and each event were also calculated. Concordance was assessed by measuring deviations from the calculated median of each value across the sites.ResultsGood agreement was found across sites for the number of initiators (median: 53 127, range: 51 848–55 273), gender (56.9% female, range: 56.8%–57.1%) and age group. Each site employed different methods for estimating days supply and used different operational definitions for the treatment events. Consequently, poor agreement was found for incidence of discontinuation (median 55%, range: 34%–67%), switching (median 3.5%, range: 1%–7%), intensification (median 8%, range: 5%–12%), time to event estimates and hazard ratios.ConclusionsDifferences in analytical decisions when deriving exposure from dispensing data affect replicability. Detailed analytical protocols, such as HARPER, are critical for transparency of operational definitions and interpretations of key study parameters.
Physicomechanical, water absorption and thermal properties and morphology of Paederia foetida fiber–Al2O3 powder hybrid‐reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Herlina Sari Nasmi , Suteja Suteja , Pruncu Catalin Iulian , Setyawan Indra , Ilyas Rushdan Ahmad , Lamberti Luciano 
Published: March 2024

AbstractHybridization of natural fibers with ceramic materials for reinforcing composites allows the optimization of the properties of these materials. For this reason, the present study aims to investigate physical, mechanical, water absorption, swelling and thermal properties as well as morphological characteristics of a hybrid Paederia foetida fibers–alumina powder (PFs–Al2O3)‐reinforced epoxy composite. Epoxy resin served as the matrix, while PFs and Al2O3 were employed as reinforcement. Five types of composites were fabricated using the hot‐pressing technique. The corresponding ratios of PFs:Al2O3 volume fractions (%) considered here were 0:40 (SFA), 10:30 (SFB), 20:20 (SFC), 30:10 (SFD) and 40:0 (SFE). The results reveal that the density of the hybrid PFs–Al2O3 composites decreased for increasing volume fractions of PFs: from 2.173 g cm−3 of SFA to 1.042 g cm−3 of SFE. The highest values of tensile strength (i.e. 49.085 MPa), tensile elastic modulus (i.e. 1.431 GPa) and impact strength (24 kJ m−2) were obtained for the SFD composite material with 30% volume fraction of PFs and 10% volume fraction of Al2O3: this happened because interface bonds between PFs, Al2O3 and epoxy phases achieved their optimal configuration. Overall, mechanical properties of the hybrid PFs–Al2O3‐reinforced epoxy composites were superior to those of composites reinforced only by PF fibers or only by Al2O3. Water absorption and swellability reached their maximum values at the steady state occurring after tested samples remained immersed in water for 820 h. The SFE composite reinforced only by PFs presented the highest water absorption and swelling (i.e. 6.034% and 5.81%, respectively) while for all other hybrid composites (SFD, SFC and SFB) these two quantities remained below 5%. Density and volume fraction of voids of hybrid PFs–Al2O3‐reinforced composites were consistent with the corresponding properties of the composites reinforced only by Al2O3 or PFs. SFD was also the most thermally stable material. Scanning electron microscopy observations of fractured surfaces indicated that the microstructure of the PFs–Al2O3‐reinforced epoxy composites presents several voids, fiber pullouts and transverse fibers, which together optimize the mechanical response of the composite material. Remarkably, the SFD composite material was highly competitive with the most recently developed hybrid composites employing natural reinforcements. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Optimal sample size allocation for two‐arm superiority and non‐inferiority trials with binary endpoints
Authors: Kirchner Marietta , Schüpke Stefanie , Kieser Meinhard 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe sample size of a clinical trial has to be large enough to ensure sufficient power for achieving the aim the study. On the other side, for ethical and economical reasons it should not be larger than necessary. The sample size allocation is one of the parameters that influences the required total sample size. For two‐arm superiority and non‐inferiority trials with binary endpoints, we performed extensive computations over a wide range of scenarios to determine the optimal allocation ratio that minimizes the total sample size if all other parameters are fixed. The results demonstrate, that for both superiority and non‐inferiority trials the optimal allocation may deviate considerably from the case of equal sample size in both groups. However, the saving in sample size when allocating the total sample size optimally as compared to balanced allocation is typically small.
Effects of silymarin supplementation on liver and kidney functions: A systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Shooka , Ashtary‐Larky Damoon , Asbaghi Omid , Farrokhi Vida , Jadidi Yasaman , Mofidi Fatemeh , Mohammadian Mehrnaz , Afrisham Reza 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIt is suggested that supplementation with silymarin (SIL) has beneficial impacts on kidney and liver functions. This systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis assessed the impact of SIL administration on certain hepatic, renal, and oxidative stress markers. A systematic search was conducted in various databases to identify relevant trials published until January 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of SIL on kidney and liver markers were included. A random‐effects model was used for the analysis and 41 RCTs were included. The pooled results indicated that SIL supplementation led to a significant reduction in serum levels of alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, creatinine, and aspartate aminotransferase, along with a substantial elevation in serum glutathione in the SIL‐treated group compared to their untreated counterparts. In addition, there was a nonsignificant decrease in serum levels of gamma‐glutamyl transferase, malondialdehyde (MDA), total bilirubin, albumin (Alb), total antioxidant capacity, and blood urea nitrogen. Sub‐group analyses revealed a considerable decline in MDA and Alb serum values among SIL‐treated participants with liver disease in trials with a longer duration (≥12 weeks). These findings suggest that SIL may ameliorate certain liver markers with potential hepatoprotective effects, specifically with long‐term and high‐dose supplementation. However, its nephroprotective effects and impact on oxidative stress markers were not observed. Additional high‐quality RCTs with longer durations are required to determine the clinical efficacy of SIL supplementation on renal and oxidative stress markers.