bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving weight loss through a community-based, telewellness programme: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Backman Desiree R , Kohatsu Neal D , Padovani Andrew J , Dao Crystie , Ritley Dominique , Fleuret Julia E , McCracken Camlyn R
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

To (1) determine the weight-reducing effect of the Koa Family Program (KFP), a community-based, telewellness obesity intervention and (2) examine the impact of the KFP on improving weight-related health indicators.

Design:

Randomised controlled trial.

Setting:

Community-based in Sacramento, California, USA.

Methods:

Seventy women with overweight or obesity (25 ⩽ BMI < 40), aged 21–45 years and with low income (⩽ 185% of the US Federal Poverty Level) were randomly assigned to an intervention ( n = 34) or control ( n = 36) group. Data were collected by phone-administered questionnaire at weeks 0, 18 and 25. The intervention consisted of three components: (1) weekly, health coach-led, health education meetings on Zoom; (2) social media support through texting and private Facebook groups; and (3) a tree planting and stewardship campaign. The treatment effect on outcome measures (95% confidence intervals) was analysed with adjustment for variables including age, race/ethnicity, education and intake of fruit and vegetables.

Results:

The overall treatment effect of the KFP was weight loss at both Week 18 (–7.69 pounds [ p < .000; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −11.97 to −3.41]) and Week 25 (−7.72 pounds [ p = .002; 95% CI = −13.02 to −2.42]) of the study. KFP-associated improvements in diet, physical activity, stages of change and self-efficacy were also observed.

Conclusions:

The KFP resulted in weight loss significant at individual and population levels.
Colonial Governmentality and the Native Intellectual Response: Cultural Plurality, Imperial Education and the Foundations of Democratic Governance in Modern South Asia
Authors: Sanjeev Kumar H.M.
Published: November 2022

This article is premised on the argument that the idea of modern South Asia has been a product of the transformation of the region’s identity from being an exemplar of a cohesive macro-cultural topography in the ancient world to becoming an incohesive social formation today. Such a transformation was impelled by the epistemic rupture that it experienced, owing to the coming of the values of post-Enlightenment Modernity after the advent of the era of colonial transition. However, the emergence of the idea of South Asia, which is inherent with deep-seated sociocultural cleavages, cannot merely be explained by according a singular monovalent emphasis on the role of imported values of European Enlightenment. Rather, it is crucial to locate such a transformation in the context of the contribution of the native intellectual response to the arrival of the values of European Enlightenment. Situating ourselves in this epistemic framework, this article argues that the structuration processes which produced a fractured social cartography in modern South Asia have been a creation of the dialectical epistemic interaction between the forms of colonial knowledge and the native intellectual responses.
Silos and rigid processes: Barriers to the successful implementation of the Older prisoner Health and Social Care Assessment and Plan
Authors: Forsyth K. , Daker-White G. , Archer-Power L. , Senior J. , Edge D. , Webb R.T. , Shaw J.
Published: November 2022

Older adults are the fastest growing sub-group in prisons. They have complex health, social care and custodial needs and often the support they receive is sub-optimal. The Older prisoner Health and Social Care Assessment and Plan (OHSCAP) aimed to better meet these inter-related needs. As part of a wider study, a randomised controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the OHSCAPs effectiveness in meeting older prisoners’ health, social care and custodial needs in comparison to treatment as usual. This article describes the nested qualitative study which aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to the effective implementation of the OHSCAP. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with older adults (n = 14) and staff members t (n = 12). Data was analysed using the framework method. Three overarching key themes were identified. These were: (1) balancing care and custodial requirements; (2) prison, health and social care silos; and (3) rigid prison processes. Prison is an important opportunity to engage residents and improve public health. Cultural and strategic change is required for health, social care and custodial interventions, such as the OHSCAP, to be successfully implemented into prison settings.
The Sociological Power of Methodological Rhetoric
Authors: Katz Jack
Published: November 2022

Taking a sociological view, we can investigate the empirical consequences of variations in the rhetoric of sociological methodology. The standards advocated in Qualitative Literacy divide communities of qualitative researchers, as they are not explicitly connected to an understanding of social ontology, unlike previous qualitative methodologies; they continue the long-growing segregation of the rhetorical worlds of qualitative and quantitative research methodology; and they draw attention to the personal competencies of the researcher. I compare a rhetoric of qualitative methodology that: derives evaluation criteria from perspectives on social ontology that have been developing progressively since the early twentieth century; applies the discipline-wide evaluation criteria of reactivity, reliability, representativeness, and replicability; and asks evaluators to focus on the adequacy of the textual depiction of research subjects.
Initiation and Propagation of Multiple Fractures in the Horizontal Well of Shale Reservoirs Under Pulse Injection Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Xiao Jianfeng , Li Yanchao , Shen Jianguo , Wei Kai , Liu Yulong
Published: November 2022

Pulse injection hydraulic fracturing (HF) can release high-energy peak pressure in a split-second, forming a complex hydraulic fracture network in shale reservoirs. However, the initiation and propagation of multiple fractures in the horizontal well of shale reservoirs under pulse injection HF have been inadequately studied. Hence, in this study, a HF model coupling the fracturing fluid flow along the fracture and the rock deformation was adopted, and the effect of the pulsed injection method on multistage HF of horizontal wells was determined. The results show that the pulsed injection HF can improve the fracturing effect of horizontal wells. However, no matter how the injection displacement and pulse frequency change, the propagation length of cracks at both ends seriously disturbed by stress almost remains unchanged. When the dominant fracture is temporarily shielded, the fluid pressure of the non-dominant fractures at both ends disturbed by stress compression increases, and the non-dominant fractures can be further expanded. Thus, a new composite multistaged HF scheme suitable for horizontal wells with pulse-temporary shielding in shale reservoirs was proposed. The method presented here can be adopted to optimize the fracture growth regime and provide a scientific basis for the fracturing operation of the horizontal well in shale reservoirs.
Associated risk factors for patients undergoing a unique or double Nuss bar placement for pectus excavatum
Authors: Chen Hei Yu Matthew , Cheng Wai Yeung Rechard , Chan Herman , Ng Wing Shun
Published: November 2022

Background

Pectus excavatum is the most common chest wall deformity. Surgical correction via Nuss Procedure is a common approach. Patients with long-segment sternal depression require more than one Nuss bar to be inserted. Complications of Nuss procedure include surgical site infection and bar migration which may necessitate surgical re-intervention. There has been conflicting evidence regarding the safety profile of inserting two Nuss bars. We aim to specifically review the safety profile of two Nuss bar insertion and its complications.

Method

179 consecutive patients who had undergone Nuss procedure between November 2013 and November 2021 were identified. Data analysis was performed on patient's age at time of operation, gender, height, weight, Haller index, pre-existing medical conditions, indication for surgery, duration of operation, numbers of bars placed, length of stay, post-operative pneumothorax, bar migration, superficial and deep infections, need for surgical intervention and mortality.

Result

Patients receiving two Nuss bars were at a significantly higher risk of developing infective complications. Lower weight and Haller index increase the risk of surgical site infection and infection requiring re-operation in this group of patients. A cut-off of 50 kg has a specificity of 92.1% with a sensitivity of 68.8% in regards to surgical site infection.

Conclusion

Patients receiving two Nuss bars as a part of their Nuss procedure are at a significantly higher risk of developing infective complications. Selecting patients more than 50 kg to receive two Nuss bars appear to be a reasonable measure to reduce surgical site infection.
Book review: Sangeeta Dasgupta, Reordering Adivasi Worlds: Representation, Resistance, Memory
Authors: Chatterjee Indrani
Published: November 2022

Sangeeta Dasgupta, Reordering Adivasi Worlds: Representation, Resistance, Memory, Oxford University Press, Delhi, 2022, ₹1695, ISBN 0-19-012791-0
A randomized, crossover study to evaluate α-tocopherol bioavailability via a microemulsion gel or dry tablet delivery in healthy adults
Authors: Stefan Matthew W , Sharp Matthew H , Gheith Raad H , Lowery Ryan P , Wilson Jacob M
Published: November 2022

Background

Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) is an essential micronutrient for human health and optimal physiological function. Inadequacy may be common due to a lack of bioavailability. The use of dietary lipids alongside other emulsification agents may elicit more robust serum concentrations of α-tocopherol via improved bioavailability. Therefore, the aim of the study was to examine oral bioavailability of two delivery methods of α-tocopherol, (1) a microemulsion gel formula composed of dietary lipids and other emulsification agents and (2) a dry solid tablet over 12 hours.

Methods

Twelve participants (age  =  37.3  ±  9.6 years; height  =  173.4  ±  11.8 cm; body mass  =  71.2  ±  10.0 kg) participated in a double-blind, randomized, crossover trial comparing two delivery methods both dosed at 288 mg of α-tocopherol. Serum α-tocopherol concentrations were assessed from blood donated by participants at pre-consumption, 2-, 4-, 8-, and 12-hour post-consumption. Study conditions were separated by a 7-day washout.

Results

The microemulsion gel formula delivery demonstrated significantly greater area under the curve ( p < 0.001) and serum concentration maximums ( p  =  0.003) for serum α-tocopherol compared to the tablet delivery. No significant differences were detected between conditions for the time to reach concentration maximums ( p  =  0.375).

Conclusion

We conclude that a mixture of dietary lipids and emulsification agents in the form of a microemulsion gel formula was able to significantly improve bioavailability of serum α-tocopherol compared to a tablet by yielding higher serum α-tocopherol maximum concentrations and area under the curve over a 12-hour study period despite dosage being matched.
Measurement properties of outcome measures used in neurological telerehabilitation: A systematic review using COSMIN checklist
Authors: Brito Sherindan Ayessa Ferreira de , Scianni Aline Alvim , Peniche Paula da Cruz , Faria Christina Danielli Coelho de Morais
Published: November 2022

Objective

To summarize the measurement properties (reliability, validity, and responsiveness) and the clinical utility of measurement tools used in telerehabilitation in individuals with neurological conditions.

Design

Systematic review.

Subjects

Individuals with neurological conditions.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main measures

The methodological quality of the studies using the COSMIN Risk of Bias Checklist, the quality of the measurement properties using the criteria for good measurement properties, and the clinical utility of the measurements using the Tyson & Connell scale.

Results

From the 22,188 identified studies, 47 were included. Forty-three measurement tools were identified. The main modes of administration were telephone and videoconference. Studies involved mostly individuals with stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. Criterion validity and reliability were the most investigated measurement properties. None of the tools had their responsiveness investigated. Twenty-two measurement tools have at least one measurement property evaluated as “sufficient” in a study with appropriate methodological quality (“very good” or “adequate”). Nineteen measurement tools showed adequate clinical utility. Eight measurement tools, investigated in individuals with stroke, spinal cord injury or Alzheimer's disease, all administered by telephone, were recommended.

Conclusion

The present results can be used to assist in choosing appropriate measurement tools, both in research and clinical practice, during telerehabilitation in individuals with neurological conditions. Measurement error, content validity, structural validity, and responsiveness need to be further investigated. In addition, the measurement properties of tools used in telerehabilitation in other neurological conditions, such as Huntington's disease, should also be investigated.

Registration number

CRD42021257662.
TF and TCF4 gene polymorphisms are linked to autism spectrum disorder: a case–control study
Authors: Azmerin Maria , Hussain Md. Saddam , Aziz Md. Abdul , Barek Md. Abdul , Begum Mobashera , Sen Niloy , Rahman Md. Abdur , Shahriar Mohammad , Baeesa Saleh Salem , Ashraf Ghulam Md , Islam Mohammad Safiqul
Published: November 2022

Objective

Although the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing, appropriate diagnosis and prevention strategies are still lacking. This case–control study was designed to explore the association between ASD and the rs1867503 and rs9951150 polymorphisms of the TF and TCF4 genes, respectively.

Methods

Ninety-six children with ASD and 118 healthy children were recruited and polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was applied for genotyping.

Results

The frequencies of the mutant allele G were 48% and 44% for the rs1867503 and rs9951150 polymorphisms, respectively. In our analysis, both TF and TCF4 polymorphisms were associated with an increased risk of developing ASD. AG heterozygotes (OR = 3.18), GG mutant homozygotes (OR = 2.62), AG + GG combined genotypes (OR = 2.98), and G mutant alleles of TF rs1867503 (OR = 1.94) were associated with a significantly elevated risk of ASD. Likewise, AG heterozygotes (OR = 2.92), GG mutant homozygotes (OR = 2.36), AG + GG combined genotypes (OR = 2.72), and G minor alleles of TCF4 rs9951150 (OR = 1.92) were associated with a significantly elevated risk of ASD.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that TF rs1867503 and TCF4 rs9951150 polymorphisms may be strongly associated with the development of ASD in Bangladeshi children.
‘This is just a little flu’: analysing medical populist discourses on the Covid-19 pandemic in Brazil
Authors: Persson Erik , Ferlie Ewan , Baeza Juan
Published: November 2022

This paper explores the concept of medical populism to examine how Brazil has responded to the Covid-19 pandemic. Recognising the centrality of discourses in framing health policy, we employ Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to identify and analyse (1) what were the main discursive frames that characterised medical populism in Brazil’s Covid-19 crisis? and (2) how were these frames constructed, legitimated and reproduced in discursive meanings, structures and schemes of argumentation? Our study is an effort to inform the literature about medical populism and, more broadly, public health policymaking, administration and governance of health crises. Specifically, we seek to uncover the underlying discursive features of medical populism and expose how they frame public health policy. Our case study shows ample evidence that the main discursive frames underpinning medical populism during the Covid-19 crisis in Brazil reflected the most widely agreed attributes of populism as a strategic political discourse, notably an antagonistic depiction of the health problem, overpoliticisation and moral interpretation of political actors. However, our findings challenge some theoretical assumptions of extant conceptualisations of medical populism, thus providing greater insights into the concept of medical populism by demonstrating how this type of political discourse may incorporate different discursive meanings, structures and schemes of argumentation into its populist repertoire. This can help us anticipate patterns of action and narratives for preparing responses to future public health emergencies in an era of increasing post-truth politics, as populist discourses seem likely to influence public policy and governance for some time.
A recursive inverse dynamics algorithm for robotic manipulators with elastic joints and its application to control
Authors: Jing Xin , Chen Zhengsheng , Gao Haibo , Wang Yaobing
Published: November 2022

High-order inverse dynamics is important for the trajectory tracking control of the elastic-joint manipulators. Usually it is undesirable to establish third-order or fourth-order inverse dynamics through the symbolic Lagrangian method, because of its complicated customization and higher computational complexity, which is not suitable for real-time control for multi-joint [Formula: see text] manipulators. Based on the Subsystem of Newton-Euler formulation and the recently proposed elastic joint Newton-Euler algorithm (EJNEA), a novel recursive algorithm (Sub-EJNEA) is proposed in this paper. The Sub-EJNEA obtains a linear complexity [Formula: see text], and has a more compact form and clear physical meaning. Based on the Sub-EJNEA, a recursive control method is proposed, which can be seen as an enhancement of the feedback linearization (FL-E) control method. When facing with friction and external disturbances, a combined controller FL-E-RISE is proposed. Finally, to verify the correctness of the recursive algorithm and the effectiveness of the proposed control schemes, simulation results with the Baxter manipulator are presented.
Predicting sugarcane quality using a portable visible near infrared spectrometer and a benchtop near infrared spectrometer
Authors: Aparatana Kittipon , Naomasa Yumika , Sano Morito , Watanabe Kenta , Mitsuoka Muneshi , Ueno Masami , Kawamitsu Yoshinobu , Taira Eizo
Published: November 2022

Sugar quality (Brix and Pol) is the key index to evaluate the value of sugarcane. Hence, a rapid, accurate, and time-efficient method is needed to determine the sugar quality. This study develops a two-point sugarcane quality model that uses a benchtop near infrared (NIR) spectrometer and a portable visible–near infrared (Vis-NIR) spectrometer to measure the sugarcane juice and stalk spectra, respectively. GT two experiments for developing a two-point sugarcane quality model. In the first, a model to calibrate the sugar quality as measured by a polarimeter and refractometer, and also by the benchtop NIR spectrometer. In the second, we developed a model to calibrate the sugar quality predicted from the calibration model developed in the first experiment, by measuring the sugarcane stalk absorption spectra using a portable Vis-NIR spectrometer. The results of the first experiment showed that the standard normal variate (SNV) spectral pretreatment was the most effective method for Brix calibration, with a coefficient of determination of prediction ([Formula: see text]) of 0.99 and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.2%. In the case of Pol, second derivatives were the best spectral pretreatment for effective calibration (r2 = 0.99, RMSEP = 0.3%). The results of the second experiment showed that the multiple linear regression model developed using the stalk spectra with the second derivative was the best model for Brix calibration (r2 = 0.70, RMSEP = 1.4%). The second derivative with the SNV pretreatment was best for Pol calibration (r2 = 0.70, RMSEP = 1.4%). Our study showed that a sugar quality regression model can be developed for a portable Vis-NIR spectrometer using the data from the sugar quality predicted by a benchtop NIR spectrometer.
A Note on the Implications of Automation and Artificial Intelligence for International Trade
Authors: Hazari Bharat , Lai Jennifer T. , Mohan Vijay
Published: November 2022

Using the production function suggested by Jones and Manuelli (1990) , this article explores the consequences of introducing automation and artificial intelligence (A&AI) into a trade theoretic framework. An immediate implication is the possibility of a reversal of the trade patterns predicted by standard Heckscher–Ohlin theory, leading to Leontief paradox-type outcomes. We show that the Jones–Manuelli production function is capable of generating factor intensity reversals; consequently, our analysis suggests that factor intensity reversals may have a more prominent role to play in trade theory in the future when AI becomes prevalent.

JEL: F10, O30
Boy, You Fight like a Woman … Representations of Defeated Enemies, Boys and Male Nudity in the Late Bronze Age Aegean Iconography and Their Role in the Expression of Masculinity
Authors: Franković Filip , Matić Uroš
Published: November 2022

This paper examines depictions of male nudity, flaccid penises and phalli (erect penises) attested in the representations of boys, defeated warriors and figures of authority in late Bronze Age Aegean (ca. 1700–1050 BCE). It is argued that, similarly to ancient Egyptian iconography, the flaccid penis, as a sign of weakness and the lack of developed masculinity, was contrasted to the phallus, as a sign of masculine strength and sexual virility. Moreover, the paper argues that there was a gradual change in the depictions of male nudity around 1420/1400 BCE. In the period between ca. 1700–1420/1400 BCE, male nudity was restricted to representations of boys and defeated warriors. After ca. 1420/1400 BCE, most depictions of male nudity represented figures of power and authority with erect penises/phalli. We believe that the depictions of male nudity in combination with phalli were used to accentuate masculinity of such figures.
Comparison between radiocephalic and brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula in octogenarians: A retrospective single center study
Authors: Kim Seong Mok , Park Pyoung Jae , Kim Hyo Kee
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

The number of older patients who need vascular access for end-stage renal disease is rapidly increasing. However, determining the optimal vascular access for older patients is difficult. We aimed to compare the outcomes of radiocephalic (RC) and brachiocephalic (BC) arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in patients aged >80 years.

Methods:

This study included 94 patients undergoing hemodialysis who underwent the procedure for the first time between 2013 and 2019 in Korea University Guro Hospital. The primary outcomes were primary patency (PP) and cumulative patency (CP). The secondary outcome was maturation failure and death with functional vascular access.

Results:

Of the 94 patients (mean age, 83.9 ± 2.97 years), 66 (70.2%) and 28 (29.8%) patients belonged to the RC and BC AVF groups, respectively. One-year PP was worse in the RC AVF group than in the BC AVF group (59.6% vs. 87.4%, p = 0.013). However, no significant difference was observed in 1-year CP between the groups (87.4% vs. 91.2%, p = 0.441). The unassisted maturation rate was higher in the BC AVF group than in the RC AVF group (74.2% vs. 96.4%, p = 0.011). During follow-up (649 ± 612 days), only 6 (6.4%) patients required secondary fistula placement. Eighteen patients (19.1%), all of whom had functional AVF, died.

Conclusion:

BC AVF showed better PP and a smaller number of interventions than RC AVF in octogenarians. Therefore, BC AVF could be a primary choice of vascular access in the octogenarian patient. However, further research is warranted to confirm these findings.
Food insecurities and dependencies: Indigenous food responses to COVID-19
Authors: Alabi Babatunde Olusola , Robin Tabitha
Published: November 2022

Food sovereignty is a relatively new concept in the literature that has evolved as a way to address widespread food-related issues for many Indigenous communities around the world. One of the many crucial lessons we have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic is the importance of this concept in ensuring food sufficiency in Indigenous communities in Canada. In this article, we provide a commentary on food insecurity in Indigenous communities in Canada and how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated it. We also highlight the government’s response to mitigating hunger and spotlight how Indigenous peoples are navigating the pandemic’s impact through food sovereignty.
Low Expression of AGPAT5 Is Associated With Clinical Stage and Poor Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer and Contributes to Tumour Progression
Authors: Zang Jia , Sun Juanjuan , Xiu WenChao , Liu Xiaoshuang , Chai Yunsheng , Zhou Yanyan
Published: November 2022

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high prevalence and poor prognosis. This study aimed to identify biomarkers related to the clinical stage (I-IV) of CRC.

Methods:

The LinkedOmics database was used as the discovery cohort, and two Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases (GSE41258 and GSE422848) served as validation cohorts. The trend test of genes related to clinical stage (I-IV) of CRC patients was identified by the Jonckheere-Terpstra test. The cBioPortal database, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and PrognoScan databases were used to explore the expression change and prognostic value of clinical stage-related genes in CRC patients. CRC cells overexpressed AGPAT5 were constructed and used for cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), flow cytometric, and wound healing assays in vitro.

Results:

We identified four clinical stage-related genes, GSR, AGPAT5, CRLF1, and NPR3, in CRC. The CNA frequencies of GSR, CRLF1, AGPAT5, and NPR3 occurred in 11%, 2.4%, 13%, and 3% of patients, respectively. The expression of GSR and AGPAT5 tended to decrease with CRC stage (I-IV) progression, and the expression of CRLF1 and NPR3 tended to increase with CRC stage (I-IV) progression. Compared with the normal group, AGPAT5 expression was markedly decreased in stage IV CRC. Higher GSR and AGPAT5 expression levels were associated with better overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in CRC patients. Lower CRLF1 and NPR3 expression levels were associated with better OS and DFS in CRC. GSR, CRLF1, AGPAT5, and NPR3 expression were related to CRC progression, microsatellite instability, and tumour purity in CRC. Furthermore, AGPAT5 was downregulated in CRC cell lines, and overexpression of AGPAT5 inhibited cell proliferation and migration and promoted cell apoptosis in CRC cells.

Conclusion:

Low AGPAT5 expression may serve as a poor prognostic factor and clinical stage biomarker in CRC. In addition, AGPAT5 acts as a tumour suppressor in CRC progression.
Assessing the Effect of Directional Bremsstrahlung Splitting on the Output Spectra and Parameters Using BEAMnrc Monte Carlo Simulation Package
Authors: Babapour Hamed , Semyari Somayeh , Yadollahi Masoumeh , Majdaeen Mehrsa , Abedi-Firouzjah Razzagh , Ataei Gholamreza
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

EGSnrc software package is one of the computational packages for Monte Carlo simulation in radiation therapy and has several subset codes. Directional bremsstrahlung splitting (DBS) is a technique that applies braking radiations in interactions in this software. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of this technique on the simulation time, uncertainty, particle number of phase-space data, and photon beam spectrum resulting from a medical linear accelerator (LINAC).

Materials and methods:

The gantry of the accelerator, including the materials and geometries of different parts, was simulated using the BEAMnrc code (a subset code in the EGSnrc package). The phase-space data were recorded in different parts of the LINAC. The DBS values (1, 10, 100, and 1000) were changed, and their effects were evaluated on the simulation parameters and output spectra.

Results:

Increasing the DBS value from 1 to 1000 resulted in an increase in the simulation time from 1.778 to 11.310 hours, and increasing the number of particles in the phase-space plane (5 590 732-180 328 382). When the DBS had been picked up from 1 to 100, the simulation uncertainty decreased by about 1.29%. In addition, the DBS increment value from 100 to 1000 leads to an increase in uncertainty and simulation time of about 0.71% and 315%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Although using the DBS technique reduces the simulation time or uncertainty, increasing the DBS from a specific value, equal to 100 in our study, increases simulation uncertainties and times. Therefore, we propose considering a specific DBS value as we obtained for the Monte Carlo simulation of photon beams produced by linear accelerators.
How serious is Nigeria about climate change mitigation through gas flaring regulation in the Niger Delta?
Authors: Afinotan Urenmisan
Published: November 2022

Nigeria currently contributes significantly to the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) produced in Africa through unabated emissions from its oil and gas industry in the Niger Delta, making the country an important player in global climate change mitigation efforts. Gas flaring is the major medium by which Nigeria contributes to the global percentage of deleterious GHGs released into the atmosphere. Therefore, regulatory efforts at the cessation of gas flaring in the country is important within the wider context of global climate change mitigation, and is worthy of analysis. The recent ‘code red’ warning by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) about the clear and present danger unmitigated climate change currently poses to the planet, together with Nigeria's recent pledge at COP26 to eliminate GHG emissions by 2060, makes this analysis even more necessary. Accordingly, this article generally assesses the efforts of Nigeria at eliminating gas flaring within the context of its international commitments on battling climate change. The first part of the article explores the history and current status of gas flaring in Nigeria. The second part critically analyses the guiding policy, regulatory, legislative, and judicial efforts at ending gas flaring in Nigeria with the view to determining the seriousness of the country in domestically matching its international commitments towards mitigating climate change through the phasing out of GHG emissions.
Own My Life Today
Authors: Ndlovu Duduzile S.
Published: November 2022

This poem explores mental health from the perspective that victims/survivors of violence’s ability to narrate, make meaning of, their experiences and have them acknowledged is central to healing. Violence continues to plague the world in different ways from socio-political ethnic wars, terrorist attacks, structural and racial violence, to gender-based violence. In places with a history of socio-political violence, truth and reconciliation commissions have been set up in different contexts to mediate these transitions and give space to victims to tell their stories. The premise is that speaking out about the atrocities of the past is psychologically beneficial for the victims and to create a new world where perpetrator and victims can coexist. Victims’ ability to own the narrative for their lives and have it acknowledged is thus important not only for healing but also to ensure that victims/survivors hold the power to craft their future lives. As a Black woman, my ability to speak about and name experiences of exclusion and silencing has been central to taking up space, power, and resisting the gendered, racial, and structural violence that I encounter in academic institutions and the world at large.To view the original version of this poem, see the supplemental material section of this article online.
ACTION.
Authors: Livingston Donovan A.
Published: November 2022

When it comes to the piano, the term “action” describes the mechanism that causes hammers to strike the strings when a key is pressed. Every piano has its own action; it’s what gives the instrument a unique voice and sonic impact. My grandmother, a self-taught musician, born at the height of the Great Depression in a Jim Crow south, relentlessly harnessed her hope and heart in every note. Although she is no longer with us on this side of the heavens she prayed to, her ability to transgress, to disrupt, to agitate, to express joy through music, transcends the ethereal boundary between life and death. This poem is emblematic of the voice and sonic impact of Black women, who, when pressed like those ivory keys, emit a song of liberation; a set of instructions for symbolic remembrance, (re)centering joy as an act of resistance. Such an action is an antecedent to healing that which has been broken within the self, and the systems that particular self inhabits.To view the original version of this poem, see the supplemental material section of this article online.
QEEG Predictors of Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder- A Replication Study from Northwest India
Authors: Singh Akashdeep , Arun Priti , Singh Gurvinder Pal , Kaur Damanjeet , Kaur Simranjit
Published: November 2022

Background: Predicting treatment response with antidepressant is a challenging task for clinicians and researchers. An important limitation of an antidepressant trial is the increased time spent before an adequacy of trial can be decided. Quantitative Electroencephalography has shown some evidence in identifying early changes seen with antidepressants. No data has been reported from Indian population on its predictive capabilities. Aim: To examine whether early changes in frontal and prefrontal theta value in QEEG could predict antidepressant treatment response. Methods: Structured clinical assessments were conducted at baseline and after one week in a sample of treatment-seeking adults with major depressive disorder (n = 50). Patients were started on SSRI (Escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine or sertraline) and followed for 8 weeks. QEEG recordings were carried out at baseline and week 1 and its parameters (relative theta power and cordance) were assessed to identify its predictive value for treatment response. Treatment response was assessed using Hamilton depression rating scale with 50% reduction after 8 weeks being considered as response. Results: Mean age of the sample was 39 ± 10 years and majority of them were females (64%). A significant reduction was found in relative frontal theta value (p = 0.021) from baseline to one week in responders. However, linear regression revealed that this change could not predict the treatment response (p = 0.37). Conclusions: QEEG changes are observed in initial phase of antidepressant treatment but these changes can't predict the treatment response.
Wireless Cystoscope the Future of Cystoscopy (With Video)
Authors: Chatzipapas Ioannis K. , Kathopoulis Nikolaos I. , Siemou Panagiota T. , Protopapas Athanasios K.
Published: November 2022

Background: The first modern cystoscope was developed with the invention of rod lens and optical fibers in the 1960s. Since then, many advances have been made in functionality and camera image analysis. The cost of purchasing equipment and volume of the endoscopic tower remains a challenge and a barrier to the spread of cystoscopy. Urinary tract injury is a significant complication in women undergoing gynecologic surgery. Selective intraoperative cystoscopy at laparoscopic hysterectomy or complex pelvic surgery is valuable for recognizing lower urinary tract injuries. We have developed a novel wireless cystoscope for performing diagnostic and operative cystoscopy. Methods: The new wireless cystoscopic setup consists of a rigid cystoscope 4 mm, 30° that joins a modified action camera to a c-mount adapter f 18-35 mm and a portable led light source. Results: The new setup has so far been effectively used in more than 50 diagnostic cystoscopies and pigtail catheter replacements without complications. Two cases performed with the new setup are presented in the video. Conclusions: The new cystoscopic setup has the advantage of a wireless video camera, 4K ultraHD, and is easy setup. Due to its low cost and portability, the wireless cystoscope is easy to obtain and use. Also, it is invaluable and ergonomic in managing the integrity or pathology of the bladder, urethra, and ureters.
Study on the influence of different tire cord structures on tire grounding characteristics
Authors: Zhou Shuiting , Chen Luwen , Li Yue , Sun Pengfei , Su Guoyun , Meng Junling
Published: November 2022

The influence of different tire skeleton structural parameters on tire grounding characteristics was investigated. Using a 225/60R18 100H radial tire as the research object, the experiment and simulation were carried out by changing the diameter of the belt steel wire, the angle of the belt layer, and the number of carcass plies. Using the model parameters obtained from the rubber physical test, the finite element model of the tire was created in Abaqus for static loading simulations, the relevant data such as tire pattern impression and sinkage were analyzed, and the validity of the model was investigated. The influence of skeleton material on tire structure was deduced by determining the amount of stored strain energy of tire. The results showed that the belt angle in the grounding area had the greatest influence on the belt stress and presented a second-order change. However, the number of carcass cord layers and the diameter of the belt steel wire had little effect on the corresponding skeleton stress. The number of carcass layers had the greatest influence on the stored strain energy of the tires. The diameter of the bundled steel wire and the angle of the bundle had little influence.
Characterization and evaluation of multiple biological activities of phytosynthesized gold nanoparticles using aqueous extract ofEuphorbia dendroides
Authors: Abd El-Moaty Heba Ibrahim , Ismail Eman H. , Abu-Khudir Rasha , Soliman Nadia A. , Sabry Dina Y. , Al Abdulsalam Najla K. , Sorour Wafaa A. , Khalil Mostafa M.H.
Published: November 2022

Novel metallic nanoparticles (NPs), such as biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have been extensively studied because of their wide applications. Consequently, the present investigation aimed at the biosynthesis, characterization, and comparative assessment of biological activities of AuNPs. Biosynthesized AuNPs (ED-AuNPs) were synthesized using aqueous extract of Euphorbia dendroides ( E. dendroides) aerial parts (EDAE), which functions as a reducing and stabilizing agent by its nature. Presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides/or carbohydrates, steroids, and terpenes was revealed by the qualitative phytochemical analysis of EDAE. Characterization of the biosynthesized AuNPs was attained by UV-Visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), XRD, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The cytotoxic effects of ED-AuNPs and EDAE were assessed in vitro against HepG2 and HCT-116 cancer cells. The MTT assay revealed a significant cytotoxic effect of ED-AuNPs and EDAE on HepG2 (IC50= 41.72 ± 1.26 and 55.26 ± 2.25 μg mL−1) as well as HCT-116 (IC50= 44.96 ± 3.23 and 69.83 ± 0.96 μg mL−1) cells, thus indicating their potential anticancer activity. Furthermore, ED-AuNPs exhibited potent anti-diabetic activity, with an IC50value of 19.8 ± 1.97 µg mL−1, pointing to their plausible use as therapeutics in the treatment of diabetes, as well as a promising antimicrobial activity against H. pylori.
Classic psychedelics, health behavior, and physical health
Authors: Simonsson Otto , Hendricks Peter S. , Chambers Richard , Osika Walter , Goldberg Simon B.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Preliminary evidence suggests that classic psychedelics may be effective in the treatment of some psychiatric disorders, yet little remains known about their effects on health behavior and physical health.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to investigate associations of lifetime classic psychedelic use and psychological insight during one’s most insightful classic psychedelic experience with health behavior and physical health.

Methods:

Using data representative of the US population with regard to sex, age, and ethnicity ( N = 2822), this study examined associations of lifetime classic psychedelic use and psychological insight with health behavior and physical health.

Results:

Lifetime classic psychedelic use was associated with more healthy tobacco-related and diet-related behavior ( β = 0.05 and 0.09, respectively). Among lifetime classic psychedelic users ( n = 613), greater Psychological Insight Questionnaire (PIQ) total scale, PIQ Avoidance and Maladaptive Patterns (AMP) subscale, and PIQ Goals and Adaptive Patterns (GAP) subscale scores were each associated with higher odds of more healthy exercise-related behavior [adjusted odds ratios (aOR) (95% confidence interval, CI = 1.38 (1.13–1.68), 1.38 (1.13–1.68), and 1.32 (1.10–1.60), respectively] and higher odds of having a healthy body mass index (BMI) [aOR (95% CI) = 1.32 (1.07–1.63), 1.36 (1.10–1.69), and 1.23 (1.01–1.50), respectively], and greater GAP subscale scores were associated with more healthy diet-related behavior ( β = 0.10). All PIQ scales were positively associated with some health behavior improvements (overall, diet, exercise) attributed to respondents’ most insightful classic psychedelic experience ( β = 0.42, 0.18, and 0.17; β = 0.40, 0.19, and 0.17; and β = 0.40, 0.15, and 0.15, respectively), but only PIQ total scale and AMP subscale scores were positively associated with alcohol-related health behavior improvements ( β = 0.13 and 0.16, respectively).

Conclusion:

Although these results cannot demonstrate causality, they suggest that psychological insight during a classic psychedelic experience may lead to positive health behavior change and better physical health in some domains, in particular in those related to weight management.
Development of a Mental Health Application: A Formative Evaluation
Authors: Cho Moon-Heum , Chang Yunjeong , Lee Dong Hun , Kim Yejin
Published: November 2022

Although numerous mental health applications (apps) are available to the public, the process behind their development is unclear. Many researchers doubt the validity of the mental health content in existing apps and have criticized the lack of evidence-based content regarding the targeted mental health issues, such as trauma, anxiety, and depression. The purpose of this study is to systematically describe the entire process of designing, developing, and evaluating a mental health app in South Korea. Using an instructional systems model, we describe the entire mental health app design and development process through five phases: analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation (ADDIE). Using those phases, we conducted expert reviews and usability tests and examined whether the mental health app helped to improve the emotional and psychological issues of users. Overall, participants were highly satisfied with the mental health app, specifically for low- and medium-risk conditions. Our mental health app demonstrated its potential to cultivate mental health literacy and reach a large Korean audience. Further implications are discussed.
Quick immersions and the study of Middle East politics
Authors: Wheeler Deborah L
Published: November 2022

This study uses “quick immersions” in Middle East politics to investigate the role that a short, yet immersive fieldwork stay can play in generating social scientific and pedagogic insights. Using three “quick immersions” in Middle East politics, this article argues that although having an extended amount of time in the field is ideal, especially when committed to obtaining “an ethnographic sensibility,” a quick immersion is better than no immersion. A quick immersion is not a substitute for an extended field stay. Its primary advantage is making fieldwork possible when time, finances, logistics, and other contextual, professional, or personal constraints prohibit a longer stay. A quick immersion is an adaptation to the constraints that might lead scholars to forego fieldwork otherwise. This study aims to dispel disparaging notions that short fieldwork trips equate with mere academic tourism, by considering the outcomes of three short immersive fieldwork trips to the Middle East: six months in UAE (2013), two months in Qatar (2013), and one month in Lebanon (2017). Although the immersion in UAE was three times longer than the immersion in Qatar, and six times longer than the immersion in Lebanon, the insights yielded from all three case studies were equally meaningful for understanding Middle East politics in ways not possible without fieldwork.
Return to Driving After Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Assaf Roy , Mitchnik Ilan , Beer Yiftah , Agar Gabriel , Tamir Eran , Lindner Dror , Gilat Ron
Published: November 2022

Background:

Hip arthroscopy is an increasingly common procedure; however, recommendations for safely returning to driving after hip arthroscopy vary among surgeons.

Purpose:

To systematically review and analyze the current available evidence on the optimal time to safely return to driving after hip arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Two authors independently conducted a literature search throughout August 2021 using the PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane databases. A total of 1425 articles were reviewed, and 5 articles were included. All included articles used brake reaction time (BRT) as an observer-reported outcome measure. A meta-analysis was performed to compare pre- and postoperative BRT values. Study sample sizes and mean BRT values were collected per each included study. First, data were analyzed for the right and left hips combined; then, a subgroup analysis stratified by laterality was performed. The BRT values were divided according to time periods of measurement: preoperatively and 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks postoperatively.

Results:

The included studies evaluated safety to return to driving after hip arthroscopy in 160 patients. Of these, 142 patients were treated for femoroacetabular impingement, while 18 patients underwent hip arthroscopy for other diagnoses. The mean weighted age was 33.7 ± 9.0 years, 47.5% of the patients were female, and the right hip was affected in 71.2%. The preoperative range of BRT was 566 to 1960 ms, and postoperative BRT range was 567 to 1840 ms at 1 to 2 weeks and 523 to 1860 ms at 3 to 12 weeks. Meta-analysis found the studies to be moderately heterogenic ( P = .06). There were no statistically significant differences in BRT between the preoperative period and at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Return to driving is likely safe as early as 2 to 4 weeks after right-sided hip arthroscopy, and 2 weeks after a left-sided procedure, as driving performance returns to the preoperative level.

Registration:

CRD42021274460 (PROSPERO identifier).