bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress‐Strain Calculation Method of Composite Lining considering the Creep Characteristics of Tunnel Surrounding Rock
Authors: Gu Shuancheng , He Hengwei , Huang Rongbin
Published: October 2021

Tunnels are generally designed for a sustained usage of 80 to 100 years, during which the safety of tunnel structures must be guaranteed. A common supporting form utilized in contemporary tunnel engineering is composite lining. To derive applicable parameters of the supporting form and therefore ensure the long‐term safety of the tunnel structure, it is imperative to determine the extra acting force exerted onto the composite lining by the creep of the rock surrounding the tunnel and to calculate the stress‐strain characteristics of composite lining. In the current study, this paper proposes an approach termed surrounding reinforcement, which is based on the homogenization method. Specifically, this paper defined the bolt force as the internal force of the surrounding rock, analyzed their viscoelastic‐plastic properties using the unified strength theory, and derived an equation for calculating the stress‐strain relationship of the composite lining. To further validate the method in tunnel structures, this paper applied the derived equation to a representative instance. The results of this paper show that the initial support force has also increased during the creep process of the surrounding rock, indicating that engineers should pay close attention to the coordination between the strength of initial support and the secondary lining and thus ensure an optimal distribution of the pressure from the surrounding rock when designing composite lining tunnel within weak strata. This paper proposes that the initial support not only would guarantee the tunnel safety during the construction stage but also could cooperate with the secondary lining to brace the stress caused by the creep, ensuring that the supporting structure stays stable across the whole period of tunnel operation. This paper provides an alternative to previous methods that is more comprehensive, with simpler calculations, and more applicable to the composite lining supporting design within weak strata.
Target Tracking Algorithm of Basketball Video Based on Improved Grey Neural Network
Authors: Wang You Jun , Huang Guo
Published: October 2021

Considering the limitation of tracking range on sports video target tracking in basketball games, there are some problems, such as poor tracking effect, low accuracy, low anti-interference ability, and being time-consuming. Therefore, this study proposes a target tracking algorithm of basketball video based on improved grey neural network. According to the pixel grey difference of the target image in basketball video, this study applies the adaptive threshold algorithm in order to segment the target image of basketball video and obtain the target area of basketball video. This algorithm can normalize the grey level of the target area, build the generating sequence of the target area, and collect the target data of the basketball video. It obtains the feature output matrix of basketball video target based on the geometric dispersion of the target image and extracts the key feature points of basketball video target by single frame visual difference analysis. In addition, it makes use of the improved grey neural network to track and locate the feature points of basketball video target and reconstruct the basketball video target image with superresolution to realize basketball video target tracking. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has good target tracking effect of basketball video, can effectively improve the target tracking accuracy and anti-interference ability, and can shorten the target tracking time.
Practical SM2-Based Multisignature Scheme with Applications to Vehicular Networks
Authors: Hou Lin , Liu Wei , Yao Lisha , Liang Xiaojian , Zeng Guo-Qiang
Published: October 2021

In vehicular networks, the increasing value of transportation data and scale of connectivity also brings many security and privacy concerns. Peer authentication and message integrity are two vital security requirements to ensure safe transportation system. Because of the constrained resources of the units performing the cryptographic components, the proposed security-enhancing schemes should be lightweight and scalable. In this paper, we present a multisignature scheme derived from the SM2 signature which enables a group of parties to collaboratively sign a message and generate a compact joint signature at the end. Our scheme requires no preprocessing or interactions among the parties before signing, and its performance matches or surpasses known ones in terms of signing time, verification time, and signature size. Therefore, our scheme is also suitable for vehicular networks, with the goal to enhance security with small computation and storage cost.
Real‐Time Monitoring of Timber‐Surface Crack Repair Using Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Meng Huien , Yang Wenwei , Yang Xia
Published: October 2021

Real‐time assessment of timber‐surface crack repair is crucial to the stability and safety of timber structures. Epoxy resin was used to repair timber cracks, and the active sensing technique using piezoelectric ceramics was applied to monitor the repair process of timber surface cracks in real time. Sixteen wood samples were designed for axial compression tests and active monitoring tests. A pair of lead zirconate titanate patches was pasted on the surface of the timber specimens as actuators and sensors for signal transmission and reception, through wavelet packet analysis, the variations in the signal amplitude, and wavelet coefficients. The relationship between the wavelet packet energy of the monitoring signal and the ultimate bearing capacity of the specimens at different periods after grouting was established. Based on the root‐mean‐square deviation, the damage index, DI, was introduced to evaluate the repair degree of timber surface cracks quantitatively. The results showed that the active sensing method can evaluate the strength development in timber‐surface crack repair in real time.
Structural Reliability Analysis via the Multivariate Gegenbauer Polynomial-Based Sparse Surrogate Model
Authors: Dong Yixuan , Wang Shijie
Published: October 2021

Structural reliability analysis is usually realized based on a multivariate performance function that depicts failure mechanisms of a structural system. The intensively computational cost of the brutal-force Monte-Carlo simulation motivates proposing a Gegenbauer polynomial-based surrogate model for effective structural reliability analysis in this paper. By utilizing the orthogonal matching pursuit algorithm to detect significant explanatory variables at first, a small number of samples are used to determine a reliable approximation result of the structural performance function. Several numerical examples in the literature are presented to demonstrate potential applications of the Gegenbauer polynomial-based sparse surrogate model. Accurate results have justified the effectiveness of the proposed approach in dealing with various structural reliability problems.
Quantitative Characterization of Pore Space for the Occurrence of Continental Shale Oil in Lithofacies of Different Types: Middle Jurassic Lianggaoshan Formation in Southeastern Sichuan Basin of the Upper Yangtze Area
Authors: Wei Xiangfeng , Zhang Kun , Li Qianwen , Hu Dongfeng , Wei Zhihong , Liu Ruobing , Liu Zhujiang , Liu Jiayi
Published: October 2021

In addition to marine and marine-continental transitional strata, the continental ones are also widely distributed in various oil and gas-bearing basins in China. The continental shale generally provides favorable material bases for hydrocarbon generation, such as wide distribution, large thickness, multiple series of strata, high TOC content, nice organic matter type, and moderate thermal evolution. Part of such shale contains shale oil, but the pore space characteristics for the occurrence of this oil are not thoroughly studied. In order to accurately and quantitatively characterize the pore space where the continental shale oil in different types of lithofacies occurs, we sampled the rock cores from the Middle Jurassic Lianggaoshan Formation in the southeastern Sichuan Basin of the Upper Yangtze Area. The TOC content and mineral composition were analyzed, and we also carried out experiments on CO2 and N2 adsorptions, high-pressure mercury injection, and wash oil. Results show significant differences in pore space characteristics for the occurrence of shale oil in different types of lithofacies. In organic-rich mixed and clayey mudstones with the highest TOC content, the free shale oil, occupying the largest reservoir space, mainly occurs in macropores and mesopores, and the adsorbed shale oil, occupying the largest reservoir space, mainly occurs in mesopores. In the organic-bearing clayey mudstone, which has a higher TOC content, the free shale oil takes a larger reservoir space and mainly occurs in macropores, followed by mesopores, and the absorbed one, occupying a larger reservoir space, mostly occurs in micropores and then the mesopores. The organic-bearing mixed mudstone has a moderate TOC content, in which the free shale oil occupies a smaller reservoir space and primarily occurs in mesopores, followed by macropores, and the absorbed one, which takes a larger reservoir space, all occurs in mesopores. In the fine sandstone, the free shale oil occupies a smaller reservoir space and primarily occurs in mesopores, while the absorbed one occupies a smaller reservoir space and all occurs in mesopores.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: The Magnitude and Risk Factors among Patients Admitted to Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Tamire Tewodros , Eticha Temesgen , Gelgelu Temesgen Bati
Published: October 2021

Background. In healthcare facilities, a gradual increase in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections has been seen over the past 2 decades. Similarly, it has been responsible for the most frequent and invasive pathogens associated with admitted patient infection. Currently, it is considered an urgent threat to public health and classified as one of the top-priority antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. This study aimed to determine the magnitude and associated risk factors of MRSA infection among admitted patients. Methods. A facility-based cross-sectional examination was led on 413 patients admitted to Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital from January 2018 to January 2019. A convenient sampling technique was used. Clinical specimens of pus and blood were collected from admitted patients who developed the infection after 48 hours of admission. Gram stain, culture media preparations, and biochemical tests were conducted to identify and isolate the causative agent. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were identified as MRSA strains after having a zone of inhibition less than or equal to 21 mm to the cefoxitin (30 ug) disc. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed. The odds ratio, along with 95% CI, was estimated to identify associated risk factors for MRSA infection. Results. Out of 413 collected specimens, 38.7% had coagulase-positive S. aureus of which 35.6% (95% CI: 28.2%–43.0%) were MRSA. Being within the age group of 19–29 years and 30–39 years with AOR = 5.02 and 95% CI: 1.24–20.35 and AOR = 6.65 and 95% CI: 1.78–24.78, respectively, admitting in the hematology ward and the pediatric ward with AOR = 7.80 and 95% CI: 1.82–33.49 and AOR = 10.54 and 95% CI: 1.78–62.42, respectively, and experiencing poor prognosis with AOR = 10.97 and 95% CI: 4.57–26.36 were significantly associated with MRSA infection. Conclusion and Recommendation. The significant magnitude of MRSA was found among patients admitted to this hospital. Therefore, identified risk factors should be considered when executing hospital-acquired infection prevention programs. We also suggest that healthcare providers should consider the identified risk factors while prescribing the antibiotic.
ZIP9 Is a Druggable Determinant of Sex Differences in Melanoma
Authors: Aguirre-Portolés Cristina , Payne Riley , Trautz Aspen , Foskett J. Kevin , Natale Christopher A. , Seykora John T. , Ridky Todd W.
Published: October 2021

Melanoma and most other cancers occur more frequently and have worse prognosis in males compared with females. Although sex steroids are thought to be involved, classical androgen and estrogen receptors are not detectable in most melanomas. Here we show that testosterone promotes melanoma proliferation by activating ZIP9 (SLC39A9), a zinc transporter that is widely expressed in human melanoma but not intentionally targeted by available therapeutics. This testosterone activity required an influx of zinc, activation of MAPK, and nuclear translocation of YAP. FDA-approved inhibitors of the classical androgen receptor also inhibited ZIP9, thereby antagonizing the protumorigenic effects of testosterone in melanoma. In male mice, androgen receptor inhibitors suppressed growth of ZIP9-expressing melanomas but had no effect on isogenic melanomas lacking ZIP9 or on melanomas in females. These data suggest that ZIP9 might be effectively targeted in melanoma and other cancers by repurposing androgen receptor inhibitors that are currently approved only for prostate cancer.

Significance:

Testosterone signaling through ZIP9 mediates some of the sex differences in melanoma, and drugs that target AR can be repurposed to block ZIP9 and inhibit melanoma in males.
Axonal Injury Partially Mediates Associations Between Increased Left Ventricular Mass Index and White Matter Damage
Authors: Moore Elizabeth E. , Khan Omair A. , Shashikumar Niranjana , Pechman Kimberly R. , Liu Dandan , Bell Susan P. , Nair Sangeeta , Terry James G. , Gifford Katherine A. , Anderson Adam W. , Landman Bennett A. , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Hohman Timothy J. , Carr John Jeffrey , Jefferson Angela L.
Published: October 2021

Background and Purpose:

Left ventricular (LV) mass index is a marker of subclinical LV remodeling that relates to white matter damage in aging, but molecular pathways underlying this association are unknown. This study assessed if LV mass index related to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of microglial activation (sTREM2 [soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2]), axonal injury (NFL [neurofilament light]), neurodegeneration (total-tau), and amyloid-β, and whether these biomarkers partially accounted for associations between increased LV mass index and white matter damage. We hypothesized higher LV mass index would relate to greater CSF biomarker levels, and these pathologies would partially mediate associations with cerebral white matter microstructure.

Methods:

Vanderbilt Memory and Aging Project participants who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance, lumbar puncture, and diffusion tensor imaging (n=142, 72±6 years, 37% mild cognitive impairment [MCI], 32%
APOE
-ε4 positive, LV mass index 51.4±8.1 g/m
2
, NFL 1070±588 pg/mL) were included. Linear regressions and voxel-wise analyses related LV mass index to each biomarker and diffusion tensor imaging metrics, respectively. Follow-up models assessed interactions with MCI and
APOE
-ε
4
. In models where LV mass index significantly related to a biomarker and white matter microstructure, we assessed if the biomarker mediated white matter associations.

Results:

Among all participants, LV mass index was unrelated to CSF biomarkers (
P
>0.33). LV mass index interacted with MCI (
P
=0.01), such that higher LV mass index related to increased NFL among MCI participants. Associations were also present among
APOE
-ε4 carriers (
P
=0.02). NFL partially mediated up to 13% of the effect of increased LV mass index on white matter damage.

Conclusions:

Subclinical cardiovascular remodeling, measured as an increase in LV mass index, is associated with neuroaxonal degeneration among individuals with MCI and
APOE
-ε4. Neuroaxonal degeneration partially reflects associations between higher LV mass index and white matter damage. Findings highlight neuroaxonal degeneration, rather than amyloidosis or microglia, may be more relevant in pathways between structural cardiovascular remodeling and white matter damage.
Uncertainties and Controversies in the Management of Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack Patients With Patent Foramen Ovale
Authors: Kasner Scott E. , Lattanzi Simona , Fonseca Ana Catarina , Elgendy Akram Y.
Published: October 2021

Multiple randomized clinical trials have demonstrated the benefit of patent foramen ovale closure over medical therapy alone for patients who have had a stroke that has been attributed to the patent foramen ovale. Nevertheless, there are many areas of uncertainty and controversy related to patient selection, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. We summarize the available data on these challenging topics and attempt to provide some clarity and future directions for clinicians and investigators.
The Challenges of Coal Phaseout: Coal Plant Development and Foreign Finance in Indonesia and Vietnam
Authors: Gao Xue , Davidson Michael , Busby Joshua , Shearer Christine , Eisenman Joshua
Published: October 2021

Global coal use must be phased out if we are to minimize temperature increases associated with climate change. Most new coal plants are being built in the Asia Pacific and rely on overseas finance, with Indonesia and Vietnam the leading recipients. However, the politics of coal plant finance are changing, with many projects cancelled in recent years. This article explores the factors that led to coal plant cancellations in Vietnam and Indonesia. Based on new data of coal plant finance and elite interviews, we find fuel switching, public opposition, and national planning were the dominant reasons for cancellations in Vietnam, while Indonesia’s reasons were more diverse. Vietnam also had a larger number of cancellations than Indonesia, which has a more entrenched domestic coal mining sector. These findings suggest that Vietnam is farther along the coal phaseout agenda than Indonesia. We further provide provisional explanations for these patterns.
The Temporal Dynamics of Spontaneous Emotional Brain States and Their Implications for Mental Health
Authors: Kragel Philip A. , Hariri Ahmad R. , LaBar Kevin S.
Published: October 2021

Temporal processes play an important role in elaborating and regulating emotional responding during routine mind wandering. However, it is unknown whether the human brain reliably transitions among multiple emotional states at rest and how psychopathology alters these affect dynamics. Here, we combined pattern classification and stochastic process modeling to investigate the chronometry of spontaneous brain activity indicative of six emotions (anger, contentment, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise) and a neutral state. We modeled the dynamic emergence of these brain states during resting-state fMRI and validated the results across two population cohorts—the Duke Neurogenetics Study and the Nathan Kline Institute Rockland Sample. Our findings indicate that intrinsic emotional brain dynamics are effectively characterized as a discrete-time Markov process, with affective states organized around a neutral hub. The centrality of this network hub is disrupted in individuals with psychopathology, whose brain state transitions exhibit greater inertia and less frequent resetting from emotional to neutral states. These results yield novel insights into how the brain signals spontaneous emotions and how alterations in their temporal dynamics contribute to compromised mental health.
Viscum meyeri (Viscaceae)—a new name for Viscum anceps, an old-established mistletoe species endemic to southern Africa
Authors: SOSNOVSKY YEVHEN , KRASYLENKO YULIYA , NACHYCHKO VIKTOR
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we propose a new replacement name “Viscum meyeri” for a southern African endemic species currently known as V. anceps E.Mey. ex Sprague. The latter name is unavailable for use, being illegitimate as a later homonym of V. anceps Spreng.—the basionym for the presently accepted name Phoradendron anceps (Spreng.) M.Gómez. In addition, the second-step lectotypification of the new and replaced names is conducted. One collection from K is designated here as a lectotype of V. meyeri (≡ V. anceps E.Mey. ex Sprague), and eight more collections from FR, HAL, HBG, K, P, and S are considered as isolectotypes.
A preliminary research and notes on Orthoptera (Insecta) Fauna of Hakkari Province
Authors: TAYLAN MEHMET SAİT , ŞİRİN DENİZ , SEVGİLİ HASAN , YEŞİLYURT FATİH
Published: October 2021

To date several studies have been carried out on Orthoptera fauna throughout Anatolia; however, there is no comprehensive study on the Orthoptera fauna of Hakkari Province. This study is a preliminary comprehensive research that deals with the less known Orthoptera (Insecta) fauna of Hakkari Province. In this respect, the records and possible localities were examined between the years 2018–2020 (except Kurdia uvarovi) for the Hakkari Province. Specimens were collected with the help of an insect sweep net or by hand. As a result of the field studies and literature research, it has been determined that the Orthoptera fauna in the province is represented by 51 genera and 69 species/subspecies belonging to 19 subfamilies in 8 families. In the study, 24 new records were noted for Hakkari Orthoptera fauna and Isophya iraca Maran, 1977 (syn. n), which is established as a new synonym of I. hakkarica Karabag, 1962. According to our preliminary research, the Orthoptera fauna of Hakkari includes 32 Ensiferan and 37 Caeliferan members. In the Ensifera suborder (long antennae katydids, crickets and allies), 25 species belonging to the Tettigoniidae, 5 species belonging to Gryllidae, and one species for the each of Myrmecophilidae and Gryllotalpidae families have been identified. Caelifera suborder includes 26 species belonging to the Acrididae, 9 species belonging to the Pamphagidae, and one species for each of the Pyrgomorphidae and Tetrigidae families. During the field studies, it was observed that the Uvarovistia satunini (Uvarov, 1916), Uvarovistia zebra (Uvarov, 1916) and, Bradyporus (Callimenus) latipes (Stål, 1875) species have high population densities. They “swarm” and damage the agricultural areas especially in the Durankaya, Bayköy, Bağışlı, and Kırıkdağ regions. For this reason, it is suggested that the populations of these species should be routinely monitored in agricultural areas.
Pandemic rage: Everyday frustrations in times of the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Kubacka Małgorzata , Luczys Piotr , Modrzyk Ariel , Stamm Agnieszka
Published: October 2021

In this study, the authors use data from qualitative research to examine the phenomenon of pandemic rage in everyday life. They define pandemic rage as an emotional reaction to feelings of anger, frustration and helplessness resulting from the conviction that fundamental rules have been violated during a pandemic, which is perceived (by the person experiencing pandemic rage) as provocation, impertinence, insolence, and crossing boundaries. The article takes a closer look at the relations between space, normative order, behaviours and pandemic rage. It first introduces the linkages between the occurrence of pandemic rage and the experience of spatial compression in the private and public spheres, situations of feeling ‘condensed’ and ‘condemned’ in the presence of others, and proxemic disturbances. Then the article discusses endogenous and exogenous catalysts of pandemic rage. The last section provides a summary with interpretations and conclusions.
COVID-19’s Impact on Substance Use and Well-Being of Younger Adult Cannabis Users in California: A Mixed Methods Inquiry
Authors: Fedorova Ekaterina V. , Wong Carolyn F. , Conn Bridgid M. , Ataiants Janna , Iverson Ellen , Lankenau Stephen E.
Published: October 2021

Few qualitative studies have examined the impact of COVID-19 on cannabis and alcohol use, and overall well-being among cannabis users. Cannabis users (aged 26-32) were surveyed quantitatively (n=158) and interviewed qualitatively (n=29) in April 2020–May 2021 in Los Angeles. 63.3% of the quantitative sample reported increasing use of either cannabis (29.1%) or alcohol (15.2%) or both (19.0%) following the COVID-19 outbreak. Qualitative data revealed that increases in cannabis and alcohol use were largely attributed to changes in employment and staying at home resulting in fewer impediments and boredom. Themes of loneliness and utilization of various coping strategies were more pronounced among those who increased cannabis and/or alcohol use. For some, increases in cannabis/alcohol use were temporary until participants adjusted to “a new normal” or embraced more adaptive coping strategies. Results suggest monitoring cannabis/alcohol use trends and identifying coping strategies to reduce the pandemic’s impact on substance use and mental health.
Perimenopause and the Use of Fertility Tracking: 3 Case Studies
Authors: Meyers Maria G. , Vitale Lauren , Elenchin Kathryn
Published: October 2021

Perimenopause is a time in a woman's life where fertility may vary depending upon her age and her reproductive stage and has been defined as the transition period prior to menopause that is characterized by irregular menses, hormonal changes, vasomotor symptoms, and declining fertility (Casper, 2020). Fertility tracking during this time in a woman's reproductive stage has not been widely studied. Employing the use of Luteinizing Hormone Urine Assay sticks, an electronic hormonal monitor device or mucus, we propose a set of guidelines to determine the potentially fertile times of a woman's cycle based on staging according to the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) criteria and illustrate their application with three case reports.
Migrants’ Remittances, the Fiscal Contract and Tax Attitudes in Africa and Latin America
Authors: López García Ana Isabel , Maydom Barry
Published: October 2021

How does the receipt of remittances shape recipients’ attitudes towards taxation? We argue that remittances are likely to reduce support for the fiscal contract of taxes in exchange for public services because recipients rely less on the national economy and the state for their well-being. Remittance recipients can use the money sent by friends or family overseas to obtain public services in the private market instead of, or in addition to, tax-funded welfare services. In doing so, remittance recipients become detached from the national political community and develop a transactional relationship with the state whereby they pay licence fees, taxes and bribes to protect investment goods procured with remittances, making them less willing to support general taxation and more likely to approve of tax evasion and avoidance. We find strong support for our theory in analysis of survey data from Africa and Latin America. Our article contributes to knowledge of the micro-foundations of the fiscal contract and the political-economic effects of emigration and remittances on migrants’ homelands.
Determinants of Racial Disparities in Female Incarceration Rates, 2000–2018
Authors: Myers Samuel L. , Sabol William J. , Xu Man
Published: October 2021

In The Growth of Incarceration in the United States, the National Research Council documents the large and persistent racial disparities in imprisonment that accompanied the more than quadrupling of the U.S. incarceration rate since the 1980s. Largely unnoticed by policy makers and opinion leaders in recent years is an unprecedented decrease in the number of African American women incarcerated at the same time that the number of white women in prison has grown to new heights. The result of these recent changes is a near convergence in black-white female incarceration rates from 2000 to 2016. In some states, the changes occurred abruptly and almost instantaneously. In other states, the convergence has been gradual. We find that changes in the population composition—the fraction of the population that is black—was the major contributor to the decline in the disparity among women. We also find that race-specific differences in drug overdose deaths stemming from the recent increases in opioid use lowered the disparity by increasing the white female imprisonment rate and lowering it for black women.
The Constitution’s Guarantee of Legal Accountability for Jurisdictions
Authors: Hammond Emily
Published: October 2021

This article argues that the Constitution’s entrenched provision for judicial review may be understood as a guarantee of legal accountability for a specific class of governmental powers, namely, powers whose exercise has a legal effect on rights and obligations (‘jurisdictions’). The paper’s argument is prompted by the observations in Kaldas v Barbour (2017) 350 ALR 292; [2017] NSWCA 275 on the class of administrative actions that are amenable to entrenched judicial review of State powers. The article shows that the application of this understanding to entrenched review of Commonwealth powers has significant explanatory value. It casts new light on two puzzling features of entrenched review of Commonwealth powers: The discrimen between executive and judicial power that underpins a separation of powers rationale for entrenched review of Commonwealth executive action and the demarcation between s 75(iii) and s 75(v) injunctions against Commonwealth officers. Viewing entrenched review as a guarantee of legal accountability for jurisdictions prompts new insights into its constitutional rationale and its specific contribution to government under law.
A large-scale dataset for indoor visual localization with high-precision ground truth
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Gao Wei , Hu Zhanyi
Published: October 2021

This article presents a challenging new dataset for indoor localization research. We have recorded the whole internal structure of Fengtai Wanda Plaza which is an area of over 15,800 m2 with a Navvis M6 device. The dataset contains 679 RGB-D panoramas and 2,664 query images collected by three different smartphones. In addition to the data, an aligned 3D point cloud is produced after the elimination of moving objects based on the building floorplan. Furthermore, a method is provided to generate corresponding high-resolution depth images for each panorama. By fixing the smartphones on the device using a specially designed bracket, six-degree-of-freedom camera poses can be calculated precisely. We believe it can give a new benchmark for indoor visual localization and the full dataset can be downloaded from http://vision.ia.ac.cn/Faculty/wgao/data_code/data_indoor_localizaiton/data_indoor_localization.htm
Hospital to Home: Supporting the Transition From Hospital to Home for Older Adults
Authors: Barber Brittany , Weeks Lori , Steeves-Dorey Lexie , McVeigh Wendy , Stevens Susan , Moody Elaine , Warner Grace
Published: October 2021

Background

An increasing proportion of older adults experience avoidable hospitalizations, and some are potentially entering long-term care homes earlier and often unnecessarily. Older adults often lack adequate support to transition from hospital to home, without access to appropriate health services when they are needed in the community and resources to live safely at home.

Purpose

This study collaborated with an existing enhanced home care program called Home Again in Nova Scotia, to identify factors that contribute to older adult patients being assessed as requiring long-term care when they could potentially return home with enhanced supports.

Methods

Using a case study design, this study examined in-depth experiences of multiple stakeholders, from December 2019 to February 2020, through analysis of nine interviews for three focal patient cases including older adult patients, their family or friend caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

Results

Findings indicate home care services for older adults are being sought too late, after hospital readmission, or a rapid decline in health status when family caregivers are already experiencing caregiver burnout. Limitations in home care services led to barriers preventing family caregivers from continuing to care for older adults at home.

Conclusions

This study contributes knowledge about gaps within home care and transitional care services, highlighting the importance of investing in additional home care services for rehabilitation and prevention of rapidly deteriorating health.
Multi-objective optimization of vehicle seat suspension with friction under random excitation
Authors: Luo Rongkang , Wu Peibao , Luo Jiabin , Hou Zhichao , He Le , Wang Fengquan
Published: October 2021

A seat suspension contributes greatly to vehicle ride comfort as a result of direct contact with the human body. Friction in a seat suspension produces strong non-smooth nonlinearity in seat dynamics, which makes the simulation-based optimization on the seat suspension’s performance time-consuming. This study tries to address parameter optimization on a vehicle seat suspension with the friction force in an analytical approach. A two degrees of freedom model is firstly established for the human body-seat system with friction and subjected to bandlimited random excitation. The nonlinear model is converted into an equivalent linear model by using Gaussian linearization. The dynamic responses of the linear model have then derived analytically and validated by Monte Carlo simulations. Based on the analytical solution, a multi-objective optimization strategy is proposed for the seat suspension. The acceleration of the human body and the suspension travel are chosen as the objective indexes to evaluate seat performance. Simulation results show that the proposed optimization strategy is efficient, where a global optimum is guaranteed owing to the analytical expression of the objective function. The optimization approach taking advantage of model linearization can be applied to similar mechanical systems with friction.
Brain Circuits Underlying Narcolepsy
Authors: Pintwala Sara Katherine , Peever John
Published: October 2021

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder manifesting symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness and often cataplexy, a sudden and involuntary loss of muscle activity during wakefulness. The underlying neuropathological basis of narcolepsy is the loss of orexin neurons from the lateral hypothalamus. To date numerous animal models of narcolepsy have been produced in the laboratory, being invaluable tools for delineating the brain circuits of narcolepsy. This review will examine the evidence regarding the function of the orexin system, and how loss of this wake-promoting system manifests in excessive daytime sleepiness. This review will also outline the brain circuits controlling cataplexy, focusing on the contribution of orexin signaling loss in narcolepsy. Although our understanding of the brain circuits of narcolepsy has made great progress in recent years, much remains to be understood.
Effects of Lifestyle Intervention on Inflammatory Markers and Waist Circumference in Overweight/Obese Adults With Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Rahimi Gholam Rasul Mohammad , Yousefabadi Heidar Alizaei , Niyazi Arghavan , Rahimi Nasser Mohammad , Alikhajeh Yaser
Published: October 2021

Background:

Physical inactivity and an imbalanced diet could lead to some cardio metabolic risk factors.

Objective:

The objective of this meta-analysis was to investigate the effects of lifestyle modification on inflammatory indicators and waist circumference (WC) in overweight/obese subjects with metabolic syndrome (MS)

Data sources:

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and Web of Science.

Study selection:

The selection criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of lifestyle interventions on inflammation and WC from inception to 20 December 2020. The weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) between interventions were computed using a random or fixed-effects model.

Results:

Six RCTs (including 1246 MS patients who had, on average, overweight/obesity) met all inclusion criteria. Interventions lasted 6 to 12 months (2–5 sessions per week). Lifestyle intervention significantly reduced C-reactive protein (WMD: −0.52 mg/ml, 95% CI: −0.72, −0.33), IL-6 (WMD: −0.50 pg/ml, 95% CI: −0.56, −0.45), and increased adiponectin (WMD: 0.81 µg/ml, 95% CI, 0.64, 0.98). Moreover, lifestyle modification significantly decreased WC (WMD: −3.12 cm, 95% CI, −4.61, −1.62).

Conclusion:

Our findings provide evidence that lifestyle alterations, including physical activity and diet, can lead to significant improvement in abdominal obesity, measured by WC and some inflammation markers among overweight/obese individuals with MS. Further high-quality research is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying the effect of such interventions on this population’s inflammatory markers.
A Case of New-Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus With Serositis in a Maintenance Hemodialysis Patient
Authors: Kosugi Shotaro , Yoshida Tadashi , Yoshimoto Norifumi , Itoh Hiroshi , Oya Mototsugu
Published: October 2021

A 61-year-old woman with a 4-year history of maintenance hemodialysis due to end-stage renal disease of unknown cause was admitted because of a recurrent fever and abdominal pain lasting for 3 months. She had rheumatoid arthritis as a complication and had taken sulfasalazine for over 4 years. Laboratory data revealed thrombocytopenia, hypocomplementemia, a high C-reactive protein level, and positivity for antinuclear antibody and anti-double strand DNA antibody. Gallium scintigraphy showed pericarditis, pleuritis, and peritonitis. Nonscarring alopecia was also noted. She was diagnosed as having systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Drug-induced lupus elicited by sulfasalazine was ruled out because the symptoms did not improve even after the discontinuation of the drug upon admission. Oral prednisolone treatment markedly improved her symptoms and laboratory data. However, she later died of sepsis arising from proctitis on day 71 of admission. This report underscores the necessity of considering new-onset SLE in patients with unexplained fever and serositis, including pleuritis, peritonitis, or pericarditis, even if they are receiving maintenance dialysis.
The well-being impacts of tourism: Long-term and short-term effects of tourism development on residents’ happiness
Authors: Godovykh Maksim , Ridderstaat Jorge , Fyall Alan
Published: October 2021

Well-being is considered one of the highest values in human life. Although previous studies have discussed the tourists’ well-being outcomes, the impact of tourism on residents’ happiness has received less empirical attention in tourism research. This study aims to explore the effects of tourism development on residents’ happiness in a group of countries by using panel data analysis. The results demonstrate that tourism arrivals negatively influence residents’ happiness in the short term and have positive effects on residents’ happiness in the long term. These findings contribute to describing the well-being impacts of tourism, differentiating between long- and short-term outcomes, and providing recommendations for destination management and tourism authorities.
Psychological Characteristics of Recipients Pretransplantation in the Dallas UtErus Transplant Study (DUETS)
Authors: Warren Ann Marie , McMinn Kenleigh , Testa Giuliano , Wall Anji E. , Saracino Giovanna , Waddimba Anthony C. , Johannesson Liza
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Uterus transplantation is now a viable option for fertility treatment for women with absolute uterine factor infertility. Psychological assessment is recommended as a part of the perioperative evaluation process.

Research Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the psychological characteristics and mental health history of the 20 women who participated in the Dallas UtErus Transplant Study (DUETS) trial.

Design

This retrospective observational descriptive study was part of a prospective clinical trial. Prior to transplant, 20 women completed a clinical psychological interview, 19 of whom also completed psychological assessment measures including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire 9 item, Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 item, PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, 36-Item Short Form, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale 10 item, and Dyadic Adjustment Scale.

Results

Women who participated in the trial had high health-related quality of life and minimal psychological history, with most reporting psychological distress associated with their initial infertility diagnosis (N = 13). None of the participants endorsed psychological distress to meet clinical concerns on the psychological measures used. Satisfaction with relationship adjustment with their partners was also high.

Conclusions

Women with absolute uterine factor infertility who underwent uterus transplant demonstrated low psychological distress on assessment measures, were resilient, had high health related quality of life, and strong satisfaction with the quality of relationships with their partners. Although some women reported either current or past psychological diagnosis, most reported psychological distress that occurred at the time of the infertility diagnosis and appeared to resolve over time.
Muslim Americans’ Views on Making Organ Donation Decisions in the Department of Motor Vehicles Setting
Authors: Craig Megan , Quinn Michael , Saunders Milda R. , Padela Aasim I.
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Organ donation-related education is offered, and decisions are made at state Department of Motor Vehicles; however, little is known about Muslim Americans’ attitudes toward these common practices. Research Questions: Are participants comfortable learning about deceased organ donation in the Department of Motor Vehicles setting? Are participants prepared to make deceased organ donation-related decisions at the Department of Motor Vehicles? Design: A survey of Muslim Americans attending an educational workshop at 4 mosques in two US cities. Primary study outcomes were self-reported (a) preparedness to make deceased donation-related decisions and (b) comfort with receiving organ donation education in the license renewal setting. We calculated Pearson product-moment correlations between these primary outcomes and participant characteristics including sociodemographic descriptors, religiosity and religious coping measures, and discrimination measures. Results: Most respondents indicated they were not prepared to make organ donation-related decisions at the Department of Motor Vehicles (79.6%). Preparedness did not vary by age, gender, country of origin or US residency duration, nor by religiosity, negative religious coping, or experiences of discrimination. However, higher scores on positive religious coping were associated with lower ratings of preparedness. A slight majority (58.9%) of respondents were comfortable receiving organ donation education. Conclusions: Muslim Americans are comfortable with learning about organ donation while at the Department of Motor Vehicles but are ill-prepared to make deceased donation-related decisions in the same setting. Further research is required to understand whether changes to the license renewal setting would improve decision-making outcomes in this population.
I Am a Nurse, Not a Martyr: Qualitative Investigation of Nurses’ Experiences During Onset of the Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Jun Jin , Rosemberg Marie-Anne S.
Published: October 2021

Nurses have always played an essential role during epidemics, risking their lives caring for sick and dying patients. However, the unprecedented nature of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has left organizations and healthcare professionals ill-prepared and under-equipped to manage the severity, manifestations, and acute and long-term implications. While COVID-19 has presented profound physical and mental health implications for nurses, we know little about nurses’ professional experiences within their organizational context. Thus, this qualitative descriptive study fills that gap through in-depth exploration of nurses’ shared professional experiences working in hospitals during the first surge of COVID-19 in the United States. Twenty-two nurses were interviewed via telephone during April and May 2020. Through thematic analysis four main themes emerged: (1) fear, (2) collective resilience through shared trauma, (3) uncharted territory, and (4) perceived disposability. Nurses felt ill-praepared for the rapid changes wrought by COVID-19; yet they also felt proud with a renewed sense of meaning in their work. While unit colleagues were a great source of strength, nurses still reported disappointment, even feeling abandoned by their organizations. Our study indicates that nurses relied on one another to cope and find meaning. These findings are invaluable for policy development and the establishment of preventive and early intervention strategies. Done right, such efforts could better support nurses by encouraging team building, protection, and rewards to maintain nurses’ wellbeing during such outbreaks and in their aftermath. Organizations also ought to make nurses’ health and wellbeing a priority by streamlining communication, transparency, and leadership visibility.
Virtual Reality Treatment Displaying the Missing Leg Improves Phantom Limb Pain: A Small Clinical Trial
Authors: Ambron Elisabetta , Buxbaum Laurel J. , Miller Alexander , Stoll Harrison , Kuchenbecker Katherine J. , Coslett H. Branch
Published: October 2021

Background

Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a common and in some cases debilitating consequence of upper- or lower-limb amputation for which current treatments are inadequate.

Objective

This small clinical trial tested whether game-like interactions with immersive VR activities can reduce PLP in subjects with transtibial lower-limb amputation.

Methods

Seven participants attended 5–7 sessions in which they engaged in a visually immersive virtual reality experience that did not require leg movements (Cool! TM), followed by 10–12 sessions of targeted lower-limb VR treatment consisting of custom games requiring leg movement. In the latter condition, they controlled an avatar with 2 intact legs viewed in a head-mounted display (HTC Vive TM). A motion-tracking system mounted on the intact and residual limbs controlled the movements of both virtual extremities independently.

Results

All participants except one experienced a reduction of pain immediately after VR sessions, and their pre session pain levels also decreased over the course of the study. At a group level, PLP decreased by 28% after the treatment that did not include leg movements and 39.6% after the games requiring leg motions. Both treatments were successful in reducing PLP.

Conclusions

This VR intervention appears to be an efficacious treatment for PLP in subjects with lower-limb amputation.