bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms and computational analysis of leading edge erosion of wind turbine blades
Authors: Leon Mishnaevsky , Fæster Søren , Doagou Rad Saeed
Published: October 2020

Microstructural characterization and computational simulations are combined to study the micromechanisms of leading edge erosion of two different coating systems. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray tomography investigations were performed and micromechanical models of the two coatings were developed which take their micro- and nanoscale structures into account. The computational unit cell models are compared to the microscopy studies and both show that the heterogeneities, particles and voids in the protective coatings have critical effect on the crack initiation in the coatings under multiple liquid impact.
Micro-mechanical investigation of glass fibre/resin interface failure in mode I and mode II
Authors: Jenkins Peter G , Bryce David , Xypolias Georgios , Thomason James L
Published: October 2020

Fibre reinforced composites are experiencing a period of consistent and significant growth which is predicted to continue, due to the sustained global increase in demand across a number of industrial sectors. One of the critical elements in the success of such composites in both the short and longer term is the interface/interphase between reinforcement fibres and matrix. Poor adhesion will generally lead to composites with insufficient mechanical performance. Degradation of the interface/interphase region during service life will lead to a decrease in performance, eventually to a point where the part can no longer fulfil its intended function. Micro-mechanical test methods can be an advantageous approach to analysing the fibre-matrix interface as they reduce material consumption and simplify the analysis compared with composites. In this paper some of the disadvantages of the commonly used microbond test are discussed, particularly difficulties related to testing of vinyl esters. A new micro-mechanical interface test is introduced which induces failure at the interface in mode I as opposed to the shear failure that occurs with microbond and several other contemporary interface tests.
Characterization of the fiber orientations in non-crimp glass fiber reinforced composites using structure tensor
Authors: Jeppesen N , Dahl V A , Christensen A N , Dahl A B , Mikkelsen L P
Published: October 2020

The mechanical properties of composite fiber materials are highly dependent on the orientation of the fibers. Micro-CT enables acquisition of high-resolution 3D images, where individual fibers are visible. However, manually extracting orientation information from the samples is impractical due to the size of the 3D images. In this paper, we use a Structure Tensor to extract orientation information from a large 3D image of non-crimp glass fiber fabric. We go through the process of segmenting the image and extracting the orientation distribution step-by-step using structure tensor and show the results of the analysis of the studied non-crimp fabric. The Jupyter notebooks and Python code used for the data-analysis are publicly available, detailing the process and allowing the reader to use the method on their own data. The results show that structure tensor analysis works well for determining fiber orientations, which has many useful applications.
X-ray tomography based numerical analysis of stress concentrations in non-crimp fabric reinforced composites - assessment of segmentation methods
Authors: Auenhammer R M , Mikkelsen L P , Asp L E , Blinzler B J
Published: October 2020

In this study two automated segmentation methodologies of an X-ray computer tomography based numerical analysis are compared. These are then assessed based on their influence on the stress distribution results of finite element models of glass fibre reinforced composites made out of non-crimp fabrics. Non-crimp fabrics reinforced composites are commonly used for wind turbine blades due to their high stiffness to weight ratio for the dominating bending load. Finite element modelling based on X-ray computer tomography allows the reduction of the cost and can accelerate the development process of the key material parameters of wind turbine blades. Recent research progress in the last years has laid the basis for such a procedure. Those processes must be easy applicable, fast and accurate. The main challenge in current methodologies is the segmentation part. The segmentation methods applied for this study have overcome this issue by being automated. This allows for a comparatively fast transfer from X-ray computer tomographic data to finite element results.
Observing the evolution of fatigue damage and associated strain fields in a correlative, multiscale 3D time-lapse study of quasi-unidirectional glass fibre composites
Authors: Prajapati Anuj , Chirazi Ali , Mikkelsen Lars P. , Burnett Timothy , Withers Philip J.
Published: October 2020

This research is focused on studying the tension-tension fatigue behaviour of a unidirectional (UD) glass-fibre wind turbine composite. The damage features, their progression and the associated strain fields are tracked in a representative volume by employing a novel correlative approach bringing together x-ray computed tomography (XCT) and digital image correlation (DIC). The focus is on studying ex situ the evolution of damage features (fibre breaks and micro cracks) in an interrupted time-lapse manner. The major drops in stiffness are correlated to the number and location of the damage features in the bulk (XCT) and at the surface (DIC). Results from XCT highlight a localized cluster of fibre breaks and matrix cracks near backing bundles along with axial macro-cracks, while DIC shows that the backing bundles cause regions of higher strain. This highlights the relation between the damage features and strain localisation and their effect on the progressive degradation in stiffness during high cycle fatigue (HCF) cycling.
Effect of backing fibers on the thermoelastic stress analysis of multi-directional glass/epoxy laminates during fatigue loading
Authors: Quinlan A , Dulieu-Barton JM , Castro O
Published: October 2020

A preliminary study was conducted regarding Thermoelastic Stress Analysis (TSA) for use in monitoring stiffness degradation of multi-directional GFRP laminated specimens during tension-tension fatigue loading. The specimens were made from a non-crimp fabric consisting of UD fibers stitched to a layer off-axis backing fiber bundles. The thermoelastic responses of the UD surface and backing fiber surface were compared. It was observed that the thermoelastic response differed between two faces of the fabric and was influenced by the presence of backing fibers on the surface.
DTU’s blade research and demonstration platform
Authors: Haselbach Philipp U , Semenov Sergei , Berring Peter
Published: October 2020

At DTU Wind Energy, a 12.6 m wind turbine rotor blade and the corresponding blade moulds were designed and manufactured to establish a blade research and demonstration platform. The blade research and demonstration platform shall allow manufacturing of a blade or blade segments under controlled conditions, allowing realizing theoretical concepts and testing these in full-scale for materials, manufacturing and design concepts of next generation wind turbines. For this purpose, the entire blade design with detailed airfoil and structural design as well as the manufacturing and test data of the blade will be published. Static tests, fatigue tests, post-fatigue static tests as well as a modal testing of the manufactured rotor blade are planned to characterize the blade response. In this way, the DTU 12.6m wind turbine rotor blade and the blade moulds can serve as a reference rotor blade to benchmark numerical simulations and to test new materials, designs, manufacturing concepts or embedded sensors for future prognostics health management systems. In this article, results of a 3D scan of the blade moulds are presented as well as description of the water-based heating and cooling system and a resistance temperature detectors (RTD) measuring system.
Active management of hyponatraemia and mortality in older hospitalised patients compared with younger patients: results of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Thorpe Owen , Cuesta Martin , Fitzgerald Ciaran , Feely Owen , Tormey William P , Sherlock Mark , Williams David J , Thompson Chris J , Garrahy Aoife
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Hyponatraemia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality; the aetiology and outcomes of hyponatraemia in older patients have not been defined in prospective studies.

Methods

A single-centre 9-month prospective observational study in which clinical outcomes in hospitalised patients ≥ 65 years (older patients with hyponatraemia (OP-HN)) and those <65 years (young patients with hyponatraemia (YP-HN)) with hyponatraemia were analysed, and compared with eunatraemic controls (older patients with normonatraemia (OP-NN) and young patients with normonatraemia (YP-NN)).

Results

In total, 1,321 episodes of hyponatraemia in 1,086 patients were included; 437 YP-HN, median age 54 years (IQR 44,60) and 884 OP-HN, median age 77 years (IQR 71,82). A total of 1,120 consecutive eunatraemic control patients were simultaneously recruited; 690 OP-NN, median age 77 years (IQR 71,83) and 430 YP-NN, median age 52 years (IQR 41,58). Euvolaemic hyponatraemia was the commonest cause of hyponatraemia in both age groups (48% in YP-HN and 46% in OP-HN). Sixty-two percent of OP-HN received hyponatraemia-directed treatment within the initial 48 h, compared with 55% of YP-HN, P = 0.01. Despite the greater treatment rates in OP-HN, younger patients were 24% more likely to be discharged with normal plasma sodium concentration (pNa) compared with older patients, relative risk (RR) 1.24 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12–1.37), P < 0.001.

Using OP-NN as the reference group, the RR of in-hospital death in OP-HN was 2.15 (95% CI 1.3–3.56), P = 0.002. Using YP-NN as the reference group, the RR of in-hospital death in YP-HN was 4.34 (95% CI 1.98–9.56), P < 0.001.

Conclusion

Despite greater rates of HN-targeted treatment, the risk of in-hospital death is increased in older hyponatraemic patients compared with older eunatraemic controls. The impact of hyponatraemia on mortality is even greater in younger patients.
Evaluating the island effect on phenotypic evolution in the Italian wall lizard,Podarcis siculus(Reptilia: Lacertidae)
Authors: Avramo Vasco , Senczuk Gabriele , Corti Claudia , Böhme Wolfgang , Capula Massimo , Castiglia Riccardo , Colangelo Paolo
Published: October 2020

Islands are compelling natural laboratories for studying evolutionary processes. Nevertheless, the existence of general rules underlying morphological evolution on islands remains an unresolved issue. In this study, we investigated the insular phenotypic variability of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) on a large geographical scale, in order to assess the putative existence of an island effect on three morphological head traits: shape, size and degree of sexual dimorphism. A geometric morphometric analysis was performed on 30 island and 24 mainland populations, involving a total of 992 specimens, and we analysed differences in both mean trait values and variances (disparity). We found increased shape disparity in insular lizards with respect to mainland ones. On the other hand, both size disparity and mean head dimensions of males decreased on islands, leading to a reduction in sexual dimorphism. Our results provide evidence for a multidirectional morphological diversification on islands concerning head shape of both sexes, while directional and canalizing selection likely occurred for head size, but only in males. Our findings improve our knowledge on the effect of insularity in Podarcis siculus, and highlight the need for an exstensive sampling scheme and a multi-trait methodological approach.
Discussion of ‘Estimating time-varying causal excursion effects in mobile health with binary outcomes’
Authors: Kim S , Cho H , Bang D , De Marchi D , El-Zaatari H , Shah K S , Valancius M , Zikry T M , Kosorok M R
Published: October 2020

In this discussion, we examine the contributions of Qian et al. (2021) and potential applications of the newly developed estimator for the causal excursion effect in binary outcome data. Specifically, we consider extension of their method to count outcomes and observational data, propose an alternative use of their method for analysing excursion effect trajectories and discuss ways of improving estimator efficiency.
Do Contact Precautions Reduce the Incidence of Intensive Care Unit–Acquired Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections? The DPCPYO (Detection and Contact Precautions for Patients With P. aeruginosa) Cluster-Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Slekovec Céline , Robert Jérôme , Berthelot Philippe , van der Mee-Marquet Nathalie , Rogues Anne-Marie , Derouin Véronique , Cholley Pascal , Bertrand Xavier , Gbaguidi-Haore Houssein ,   DPCPYO Trial Group, Capellier Gilles , Samain Emmanuel , Boyer Alexandre , Dubois Véronique , Gruson Didier , Dumenil Anne-Sylvie , Guillet-Caruba Christelle , Jacobs Fréderic , Arbelot Charlotte , Benmansour Hanaa , Drieux-Rouzet Laurence , Monsel Antoine , Carricajo Anne , Diconne Eric , Grattard Florence , Maillard Nicolas , Morel Jérôme , Pozzetto Bruno , Dos Santos Sandra , Ferrandière Martine , Quentin Roland , Tellier Anne-Charlotte
Published: October 2020

Background

The issue of contact precautions as contributory factors for reducing Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) infections in intensive care units (ICUs) remains questioned. We evaluated the impact of the addition of contact precautions to standard precautions for Pa-positive patients on incidence of ICU-acquired Pa infections.

Methods

In this multicenter, cluster-randomized crossover trial, 10 French ICUs were randomly assigned (1:1) to sequence 0–1 (6-month control period [CP]/3-month washout period/6-month intervention period [IP]) or sequence 1–0 (6-month IP/3-month washout period/6-month CP). A surveillance screening program for Pa was implemented. Competing-risks regression models were built with death and discharge without the occurrence of ICU-acquired Pa infection (the primary outcome) as competing events. Models were adjusted for within-ICU correlation and patient- and ICU-level covariates. The Simpson diversity index (SDI) and transmission index (TI) of Pa isolates were derived from pulsed-field gel electrophoresis typing.

Results

Within recruited ICUs, the cumulative incidence and incidence rate of ICU-acquired Pa infections were 3.38% (55/1625) versus 3.44% (57/1658) and 3.31 versus 3.52 per 1000 patient-days at risk during the CP and IP, respectively. Multivariable models indicated that the intervention did not significantly change the cumulative incidence (subdistribution hazard ratio, .91; 95% confidence interval [CI], .49–1.67; P = .76) or rate (cause-specific hazard ratio, 1.36; 95% CI, .71–2.63; P = .36) of the primary outcome. SDI and TI did not significantly differ between CP and IP.

Conclusions

The addition of contact precautions to standard precautions for Pa-positive patients with a surveillance screening program does not significantly reduce ICU-acquired Pa infections in non-outbreak situations.

Clinical Trials Registration. ISRCTN92710225.
From Limits to Ecocentric Rights and Responsibility: Communication, Globalization, and the Politics of Environmental Transition
Authors: Murphy Patrick D , Castro-Sotomayor José
Published: October 2020

This article provides a comparative map of the outstanding discursive features and shared underpinnings of the Limits and Transition discourses (TDs) by examining how they have been communicated to reshape the public sphere. Though both are deeply implicated in globalization, the formation of these environmental discourses responds to distinct sets of social agents and interests and to different but complementary ontological and epistemological grounds. In the Global North, the Limits discourse challenged the assumption of unmitigated growth yet has remained anthropocentric. Environmental TDs associated with the Global South present more contestatory positions on the notion of growth by problematizing human-centeredness and embracing a radical ethics of care. Limits and TDs represent paradigmatic shifts in the history of environmentalism. Accordingly, communication scholars should consider the lessons that can be taken from these discursive fields to foster regenerative ecocultural identities and animate progressive thinking on environmental governance and its communication practices that serve both human and non-human wellbeing.
An update of KAIKObase, the silkworm genome database
Authors: Yang Ching-chia , Yokoi Kakeru , Yamamoto Kimiko , Jouraku Akiya
Published: October 2020

KAIKObase was established in 2009 as the genome database of the domesticated silkworm Bombyx mori. It provides several gene sets and genetic maps as well as genome annotation obtained from the sequencing project of the International Silkworm Genome Consortium in 2008. KAIKObase has been used widely for silkworm and insect studies even though there are some erroneous predicted genes due to misassembly and gaps in the genome. In 2019, we released a new silkworm genome assembly, showing improvements in gap closure and covering more and longer gene models. Therefore, there is a need to include new genome and new gene models to KAIKObase. In this article, we present the updated contents of KAIKObase and the methods to generate, integrate and analyze the data sets.

Database URL: https://kaikobase.dna.affrc.go.jp
Landscape Composition and Fungicide Exposure Influence Host–Pathogen Dynamics in a Solitary Bee
Authors: Krichilsky Erin , Centrella Mary , Eitzer Brian , Danforth Bryan , Poveda Katja , Grab Heather
Published: October 2020

Both ecosystem function and agricultural productivity depend on services provided by bees; these services are at risk from bee declines which have been linked to land use change, pesticide exposure, and pathogens. Although these stressors often co-occur in agroecosystems, a majority of pollinator health studies have focused on these factors in isolation, therefore limiting our ability to make informed policy and management decisions. Here, we investigate the combined impact of altered landscape composition and fungicide exposure on the prevalence of chalkbrood disease, caused by fungi in the genus Ascosphaera Olive and Spiltoir 1955 (Ascosphaeraceae: Onygenales), in the introduced solitary bee, Osmia cornifrons (Radoszkowski 1887) (Megachilidae: Hymenoptera). We used both field studies and laboratory assays to evaluate the potential for interactions between altered landscape composition, fungicide exposure, and Ascosphaera on O. cornifrons mortality. Chalkbrood incidence in larval O. cornifrons decreased with high open natural habitat cover, whereas Ascosphaera prevalence in adults decreased with high urban habitat cover. Conversely, high fungicide concentration and high forest cover increased chalkbrood incidence in larval O. cornifrons and decreased Ascosphaera incidence in adults. Our laboratory assay revealed an additive effect of fungicides and fungal pathogen exposure on the mortality of a common solitary bee. Additionally, we utilized phylogenetic methods and identified four species of Ascosphaera with O. cornifrons, both confirming previous reports and shedding light on new associates. Our findings highlight the impact of fungicides on bee health and underscore the importance of studying interactions among factors associated with bee decline.
Repeated transcatheter aortic valve implantation for the treatment of a degenerated transcatheter aortic valve implantation valve (valve-in-valve technique): a case report
Authors: Voudris Vassileios , Iakovou Ioannis , Kosmas Ilias , Sbarouni Eftychia
Published: October 2020

Background

Valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a competent alternative for the treatment of degenerated bioprosthetic valves after surgical aortic valve replacement, or during TAVI procedure as a bailout option. Herein, we report a rare case of a self-expandable Medtronic Evolut R valve into a failing Medtronic CoreValve, with the use of modern pre-TAVI imaging screening, suggesting the proper procedural design steps for so complicated implantations.

Case summary

A frail 78-year-old woman with a degenerated Medtronic Core Valve 26 mm bioprosthesis, implanted in 2011 due to severe aortic stenosis, was referred to our hospital due to worsening dyspnoea New York Heart Association III. The screening echocardiography documented severe aortic stenosis, while the classical risk scores were in favour of repeated TAVI (EuroSCORE II 5.67%). Computed tomography measurements and three-dimensional (3D) printing model were of great help for the proper valve selection (Medtronic Evolut R 26 mm), while the use of cerebral protection device (Claret Sentinel) was considered as a necessary part of the procedure. The simultaneous use of fluoroscopy and transoesophageal echocardiogram led to optimal haemodynamic result, confirmed by the discharge echocardiogram, with a significant clinical improvement during the first month follow-up.

Discussion

The main periprocedural concerns remain valve malpositioning, coronary artery obstruction, and high remaining transvalvular gradients. The multimodality pre-TAVI imaging screening may be helpful for precise procedural design. Despite the limited use of 3D models, it is necessary to adopt such tissue-mimicking phantoms to increase the possibility of optimal procedural result.
‘There But For The Grace of God Go I’: Middle-Class Catholic Responses to Ireland’s Great Famine
Authors: Delaney Enda
Published: October 2020

Over the course of the nineteenth century, the Irish Catholic middle class became more powerful in both political and economic terms. It was this group that became the backbone of Irish nationalism as it emerged in the 1870s and 1880s. But how did the Catholic middle classes respond to what was the greatest disaster in Irish history, Ireland’s Great Famine of the 1840s? This article offers an account, based on a wide range of evidence, of the responses to the events of the Famine years, focusing especially on the role of the rural middle classes and the Catholic clergy, two of the most powerful elements within Irish political and social life. The overall argument is that, while it suited later nationalists to underline the universal nature of the catastrophe, suffering during the Great Irish Famine was concentrated in the ranks of the Catholic rural underclass, which was decimated by death and emigration.
Frailty Changes Predict Mortality in 4 Longitudinal Studies of Aging
Authors: Stolz Erwin , Hoogendijk Emiel O , Mayerl Hannes , Freidl Wolfgang
Published: October 2020

Background

Baseline frailty index (FI) values have been shown to predict mortality among older adults, but little is known about the effects of changes in FI on mortality.

Methods

In a coordinated approach, we analyzed data from 4 population-based cohorts: the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), the English Longitudinal Survey of Ageing (ELSA), and the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA), comprising a total of 24 961 respondents (65+), 95 897 observations, up to 9 repeated FI assessments, and up to 23 years of mortality follow-up. The effect of time-varying FI on mortality was modeled with joint regression models for longitudinal and time-to-event data.

Results

Differences (of 0.01) in current FI levels (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.04, 95% credible interval [CI] = 1.03–1.05) and baseline FI levels (HR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.03–1.05) were consistently associated with mortality across studies. Importantly, individuals with steeper FI growth also had a higher mortality risk: An increase in annual FI growth by 0.01 was associated with an increased mortality risk of HR = 1.56 (95% CI = 1.49–1.63) in HRS, HR = 1.24 (95% CI = 1.13–1.35) in SHARE, HR = 1.40 (95% CI = 1.25–1.52) in ELSA, and HR = 1.71 (95% CI = 1.46–2.01) in LASA.

Conclusions

FI changes predicted mortality independently of baseline FI differences. Repeated assessment of frailty and individual’s frailty trajectory could provide a means to anticipate further health deterioration and mortality and could thus support clinical decision making.
Lessons in Resilience: Initial Coping Among Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Fuller Heather R , Huseth-Zosel Andrea
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

In addition to increased physical health risks, older adults may also experience risks to their mental health and social well-being due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Yet, older adults may be uniquely able to cope given their life experiences and coping mechanisms. This study explores older adults’ coping experiences and strategies during the initial weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research Design and Methods

A Midwestern sample of 76 older adults aged 70–97 years completed a phone interview about their experiences with social distancing due to COVID-19. Interviews were conducted during the early weeks of regional social distancing (March 28–April 20, 2020). Participants rated their level of perceived coping and responded to open-ended questions about their daily life and coping.

Results

Mean perceived coping level (on a scale from 1 to 10) was 7.9, with 87% of participants rating their coping positively. Primary themes that emerged included (a) staying busy, (b) seeking social support, and (c) having a positive mindset. These emotion-focused coping strategies appeared adaptive in the early weeks of the pandemic for most older adults.

Discussion and Implications

Contrary to predominant messaging about the vulnerability of older adults, these findings highlight the resilient nature of older adults in terms of their psychological coping and adaptability during COVID-19. Future research should build upon these findings to better understand and promote late-life coping during crises. Practitioners should seek to support older adults’ engagement in such proactive coping, and social policies should be developed to acknowledge the variable needs of older adults.
On the distribution of Verwey transition temperatures in natural magnetites
Authors: Jackson Mike J , Moskowitz Bruce
Published: October 2020

The Verwey transition in magnetite is a crystallographic phase transition occurring in the temperature range 80–125 K and depends on stoichiometry and cation substitution, which may in turn serve as an indicator of the conditions under which magnetite was formed or altered in nature. We have analysed the distribution of Verwey transition temperatures (TV) in a large set of samples (N = 1110) from a wide variety of rocks, sediments, and other natural and synthetic materials containing magnetite, mined from the database of the Institute for Rock Magnetism and from published studies. The analysis is restricted to measurements of remanence while warming through the transition from which TV was determined by the derivative method. Our analysis showed that the TV distribution exhibited a generally bimodal distribution of Verwey transition temperatures, both for the entire data set and for almost all of the lithological subsets. There is a sharp peak for values in the range 118–120 K, and a broad, relatively flat or polymodal distribution from about 98 to 118 K. The upper end of the distribution was sharp, with only a few values exceeding 124 K, and the tail on the lower end extended down to about 80 K. Virtually all of the sample types exhibited polymodal distributions, almost always with one peak near 120 K, and with one or more additional peaks at lower temperatures. Biogenic magnetites produced by magnetotactic bacteria had the lowest modal value of TV (100 K). Loesses (103.5 K) and igneous extrusives (102.5 K) also had low modal transition temperatures and distributions with dominant low-TV peaks. Lithological groups with the highest modal transition temperatures were modern soils (119.5 K), silicate minerals with exsolved magnetite (119 K) and sedimentary rocks (119 K). Numerical experiments confirmed that the derivative method for the determination of TV was reasonably robust and that the observed distributions cannot be explained as an artefact related to the determination of TV from individual thermomagnetic runs but rather is a general characteristic of natural magnetites. The results provide context for studies that interpret TV in particular samples in terms of natural processes or conditions during formation or alteration of magnetite.
A new transdisciplinary research model to investigate and improve the health of the public
Authors: Pineo Helen , Turnbull Eleanor R , Davies Michael , Rowson Mike , Hayward Andrew C , Hart Graham , Johnson Anne M , Aldridge Robert W
Published: October 2020

Transdisciplinary research approaches are being applied to today’s complex health problems, including the climate crisis and widening inequalities. Diverse forms of disciplinary and experiential knowledge are required to understand these challenges and develop workable solutions. We aimed to create an updated model reflective of the strengths and challenges of current transdisciplinary health research that can be a guide for future studies. We searched Medline using terms related to transdisciplinary, health and research. We coded data deductively and inductively using thematic analysis to develop a preliminary model of transdisciplinary research. The model was tested and improved through: (i) a workshop with 27 participants at an international conference in Xiamen, China and (ii) online questionnaire feedback from included study authors. Our revised model recommends the following approach: (i) co-learning, an ongoing phase that recognizes the distributed nature of knowledge generation and learning across partners; (ii) (pre-)development, activities that occur before and during project initiation to establish a shared mission and ways of working; (iii) reflection and refinement to evaluate and improve processes and results, responding to emergent information and priorities as an ongoing phase; (iv) conceptualization to develop goals and the study approach by combining diverse knowledge; (v) investigation to conduct the research; (vi) implementation to use new knowledge to solve societal problems. The model includes linear and cyclical processes that may cycle back to project development. Our new model will support transdisciplinary research teams and their partners by detailing the necessary ingredients to conduct such research and achieve health impact.
‘It’s basically everywhere’: young adults’ perceptions of gambling advertising in the UK
Authors: Torrance Jamie , Roderique-Davies Gareth , Thomas Samantha L , Davies Nyle , John Bev
Published: October 2020

In comparison to jurisdictions, such as Australia, limited research has focused upon the perceptions and reported effects of gambling advertising within the unique gambling environment of the UK. An online qualitative survey was conducted with 62 young adult gamblers in the UK. The survey investigated the place, meaning and influence of gambling advertising within the lives of the participants. Demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with qualitative data interpreted using inductive thematic analysis techniques. Three themes were identified. Firstly, young adults were highly cognizant of UK gambling advertising strategies. Second, young adults were able to describe the influence of gambling advertising including its normalizing effect and proliferation of misleading messages. Finally, young adults perceived that current harm minimization strategies, including responsible gambling messages, were ineffective. Many were supportive of increased regulation of gambling advertising. The findings indicate that young adults are aware of the potential risks associated with gambling advertising and are supportive of regulatory reform. It is important that the views and perspectives of young adults are fully considered by regulators and policy makers in the UK, particularly as they are a potential target demographic for the industry.
Iodine and fertility: do we know enough?
Authors: Mathews Divya M , Johnson Neil P , Sim Robert G , O'Sullivan Susannah , Peart Jane M , Hofman Paul L
Published: October 2020

Iodine is a vital micronutrient and its importance in thyroid function is well established. However, abnormalities in iodine intake may also have other effects. In particular, iodine is taken up avidly by the ovary and endometrium. Iodine deficiency is associated with reduced fertility. The use of high iodine concentration contrast media has recently been shown to improve conception rates in couples with unexplained infertility (UI). We hypothesize that this improvement could be related to the iodine excess and mechanisms independent of its action on thyroid. In this article, the metabolism of iodine and its potential role in fertility will be discussed, including the impact of both iodine deficiency and excess states and the importance of iodine in normal fetal development. This will include insights from animal studies on the effect of iodine in the uterine and ovarian structural environment, hormonal milieu and immunological factors affecting implantation. We speculate that iodine may well have a role as a potential therapy for UI.
Comparison of approaches for incorporating depredation on fisheries catches into Ecopath
Authors: Clavareau Lyndsay , Marzloff Martin P , Trenkel Verena M , Bulman Catherine M , Gourguet Sophie , Le Gallic Bertrand , Hernvann Pierre-Yves , Péron Clara , Gasco Nicolas , Faure Johanna , Tixier Paul
Published: October 2020

Ecosystem-based approaches are increasingly used in fisheries management to account for the direct trophic impacts of fish population harvesting. However, fisheries can also indirectly alter ecosystem structure and functioning, for instance via the provision of new feeding opportunities to marine predators. For instance, marine depredation, where predators feed on fishery catches on fishing gear, is a behaviour developed by many marine species globally. This behaviour can modify both the ecological role of predators and fisheries performance. Yet, these ecosystem-wide effects of depredation are rarely considered holistically. In this study, we explored different ways of incorporating depredation into an Ecopath trophic model. We assessed, through a subantarctic case study, how three alternative model structures can account for depredation effects on fishery catches, predator and non-commercial prey populations, as well as target fish stocks. While none adequately addresses all facets of depredation, the alternative models can to some extent capture how depredation can lead to increased fishing pressure on stocks. As structural specificities of Ecopath prevented us from representing other depredation effects such as provisioning effects for predator populations, we conclude this study with a set of guidance to effectively capture the complex effects of depredation in marine ecosystems and fisheries models.
Coverage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy in four sub-Saharan countries: findings from household surveys
Authors: Pons-Duran Clara , Llach Mireia , Sacoor Charfudin , Sanz Sergi , Macete Eusebio , Arikpo Iwara , Ramírez Máximo , Meremikwu Martin , Mbombo Ndombe Didier , Méndez Susana , Manun’Ebo Manu F , Ramananjato Ranto , Rabeza Victor R , Tholandi Maya , Roman Elaine , Pagnoni Franco , González Raquel , Menéndez Clara
Published: October 2020

Background

Intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is a key malaria prevention strategy in areas with moderate to high transmission. As part of the TIPTOP (Transforming IPT for Optimal Pregnancy) project, baseline information about IPTp coverage was collected in eight districts from four sub-Saharan countries: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Madagascar, Mozambique and Nigeria.

Methods

Cross-sectional household surveys were conducted using a multistage cluster sampling design to estimate the coverage of IPTp and antenatal care attendance. Eligible participants were women of reproductive age who had ended a pregnancy in the 12 months preceding the interview and who had resided in the selected household during at least the past 4 months of pregnancy. Coverage was calculated using percentages and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 3911 women were interviewed from March to October 2018. Coverage of at least three doses of IPTp (IPTp3+) was 22% and 24% in DRC project districts; 23% and 12% in Madagascar districts; 11% and 16% in Nigeria local government areas; and 63% and 34% in Mozambique districts. In DRC, Madagascar and Nigeria, more than two-thirds of women attending at least four antenatal care visits during pregnancy received less than three doses of IPTp.

Conclusions

The IPTp3+ uptake in the survey districts was far from the universal coverage. However, one of the study districts in Mozambique showed a much higher coverage of IPTp3+ than the other areas, which was also higher than the 2018 average national coverage of 41%. The reasons for the high IPTp3+ coverage in this Mozambican district are unclear and require further study.
Revisiting the Emotion–Risk Interaction: Do Anger and Fear Moderate the Impact of Risk on Public Support for War?
Authors: Sakstrup Casper , Hansen Kristina Jessen
Published: October 2020

A key claim in the study of emotions is that anger makes people less responsive to risks, whereas fear makes people more responsive. Although risk is a fundamental concern in the area of military conflict, no studies have directly tested whether anger and fear moderate the impact of risk on public support for war. We test this key claim with casualty risks as our case. Across five experiments (N = 4,559), utilizing well-established treatment material to vary casualty risk and induce emotions, we replicate the central finding that higher casualty risk decreases support for war. Emotions, however, do not moderate the effect of risk. These findings, combined with limitations in existing research, raise debate about the empirical robustness of the prominent emotion–risk interaction as well as widely used emotion inductions.
Connecting the Dots: Translating the Vaginal Microbiome Into a Drug
Authors: Lagenaur Laurel A , Hemmerling Anke , Chiu Charles , Miller Steve , Lee Peter P , Cohen Craig R , Parks Thomas P
Published: October 2020

A Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiota (VMB) has been associated with health and considered an important host defense mechanism against urogenital infections. Conversely, depletion of lactobacilli and increased microbial diversity, amplifies the risk of adverse gynecologic and obstetric outcomes. A common clinical condition that exemplifies dysbiosis is bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is currently treated with antibiotics, but frequently recurs, due in part to persistent dysbiosis and failure of lactobacilli to repopulate the vagina. New treatment options are needed to address BV. The VMB is relatively simple and optimally dominated by one or several species of Lactobacillus. Lactobacillus crispatus is strongly associated with vaginal health and depleted in dysbiosis. Replenishing the dysbiotic VMB with protective L. crispatus CTV-05 is a promising approach to prevent recurrent infections and improve women’s health. Here we discuss confirmation of this approach with the microbiome-based biologic drug, LACTIN-V (L. crispatus CTV-05), focusing on prevention of BV recurrence.
Evaluation of Vitek®2 performance for colistin susceptibility testing for Gram-negative isolates
Authors: Khurana Surbhi , Malhotra Rajesh , Mathur Purva
Published: October 2020

Background

The emerging resistance to the last-resort antimicrobial colistin is being reported globally. Underestimation of the burden of colistin resistance and misinterpretation of colistin susceptibility test results, using suboptimal testing methods, may be causing unexplained treatment failures and even mortality among critically ill patients. Thus, this study was conducted at an apex trauma centre to assess the performance of Vitek®2 for colistin susceptibility testing.

Methods

A total of 910 clinical isolates of Gram-negative bacteria (GNB), including Enterobacterales, Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, were tested and analysed for colistin resistance using Vitek®2. Broth microdilution (BMD) was taken as the reference method. The essential (EA) and categorical (CA) agreements and very major error (VME) and major error (ME) rates were calculated. An MIC correlation was taken to be positive with EA ≥ 90%, CA ≥ 90%, VME ≤ 1.5% and ME ≤ 3.0% rates. Spearman’s coefficient was calculated and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 64% of isolates were MDR. Overall, 196 (21.5%) and 110 (12%) of isolates were resistant to colistin by BMD and Vitek®2, respectively. The automated Vitek®2 method failed to detect the resistance in up to 48.5% of GNB tested. When comparing Vitek®2 colistin interpretive results with reference BMD for all 910 isolates, the CA was 88% (798/910) with 10% (95/910) VMEs and 1% (9/910) MEs.

Conclusions

The Vitek®2 method for colistin susceptibility testing, still in use in some settings; is a suboptimal and unreliable method.
Effects of technology-supported exercise programs on the knee pain, physical function, and quality of life of individuals with knee osteoarthritis and/or chronic knee pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Chen Tianrong , Or Calvin Kalun , Chen Jiayin
Published: October 2020

Objective

The study sought to examine the effects of technology-supported exercise programs on the knee pain, physical function, and quality of life of individuals with knee osteoarthritis and/or chronic knee pain by a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Materials and Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, and the Cochrane Library from database inception to August 2020. A meta-analysis and subgroup analyses, stratified by technology type and program feature, were conducted.

Results

Twelve randomized controlled trials were reviewed, all of which implemented the programs for 4 weeks to 6 months. Telephone, Web, mobile app, computer, and virtual reality were used to deliver the programs. The meta-analysis showed that these programs were associated with significant improvements in knee pain (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.48 to −0.10; P = .003) and quality of life (SMD = 0.25; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.46; P = .02) but not with significant improvement in physical function (SMD = 0.22; 95% CI, 0 to 0.43; P = .053). Subgroup analyses showed that some technology types and program features were suggestive of potential benefits.

Conclusions

Using technology to deliver the exercise programs appears to offer benefits. The technology types and program features that were associated with health values have been identified, based on which suggestions are discussed for the further research and development of such programs.
Life-History Traits and Flight Capacity of Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Using Artificial Diets With Varying Sugar Content
Authors: Su Sha , Wang Xueting , Jian Chengzhi , Ignatus Amedius Dwigo , Zhang Xiaohe , Peng Xiong , Chen Maohua
Published: October 2020

Successful application of the sterile insect technique (SIT), an environmentally friendly control technology, mainly depends on mass-rearing of high-quality and high-performance insects. For mass-rearing of insects, the development of artificial diets is a key component. For optimal insect growth and development, sugar is an essential nutrient as it provides energy for flight. To date, few studies have analyzed the effects of different sugar contents on the biological parameters, including the flight capacity of Grapholita molesta, a globally important economic pest. Artificial diets with different sucrose contents (0, 15, and 30 g) were evaluated in two consecutive generations. The insect flight mill was used to study the G. molesta flight capacity. The larval and pupal periods, adult longevity and pupal weight of the first-generation of G. molesta reared on artificial diets with different sucrose contents were significantly different. Insects of the second-generation had a shorter larval period, greater adult longevity, and heavier larvae and pupae in the treatment with 30 g of sucrose than using 15 g. Among the males, strong, medium, and weak flight capacities were recorded and the weakest one was observed in the diet without sucrose. Results showed that the proportion of insects with highest flight capacity increased with increasing sucrose content in insects of the second generation. It can be concluded that sucrose content is a key determinant in the biological traits, including flight capacity of G. molesta, and should be taken into consideration during the mass-rearing of the pest for SIT.
Analysing Norm-Based Advocacy Strategies to Address Asylum on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Europe
Authors: Schnyder Melissa
Published: October 2020

Whether and under what circumstances forced migrants can claim asylum on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI) are questions that have received much attention in recent years as issues of human security are increasingly considered by scholars, civil society organization (CSO) practitioners, and the international community. Although there is an international institutional framework in place that establishes the bases for claiming asylum, SOGI is not explicitly mentioned, resulting in institutional gaps that potentially expose survivors of SOGI-related human rights violations to the risk of being denied international protection. At the regional level, individual member states within the European Union (EU) can interpret international legislation differently, resulting in inconsistencies in terms of who is granted protection. This situation has mobilized many CSOs to take action and work to create normative change. This article analyses how specific norm-based strategies for change that have been identified in advocacy work addressing other social and political issues are currently being applied to advocate for SOGI as a formal basis for claiming international protection in Europe. The analysis draws upon CSO documents, writings, and discourse in order to identify the norms they criticize and attempt to weaken, and to uncover the alternative norms they promote. Because norms are a key component of both formal and informal institutions, the article sheds light on how CSOs can use norm-based strategies as powerful mechanisms for advancing political and social change.
Ibn Khaldūn Between Legal Theory and Legal Practice
Authors: Laabdi Mourad
Published: October 2020

Modern studies of Ibn Khaldūn (d. 808/1406) have covered several aspects of his thought including historiography, pedagogy, philosophy, economy, urbanism and, most recently, mysticism. However, there remains conspicuously little on the place of the law within his intellectual enterprise despite the fact that the law had played a central role in his career as scholar, teacher, and statesman. This paper reconstructs two expressions of his relationship with the law: his conceptualization of it as a scholar, and his practice of it as a justice administrator. It first examines Ibn Khaldūn’s legal training, writings and performance, with close attention to his role as a Mālikī chief judge in Mamlūk Egypt. Then, it probes his perspective on the development of Islamic law and its institutions through a systematic analysis of his account of fiqh and uṣūl al-fiqh in the Muqaddima. The paper concludes that Ibn Khaldūn’s narrative fulfills two main tendencies: to contribute a critical analysis of the history of Islamic law, and to represent this history in a novel fashion through his theory of society and culture (ʿilm al-ʿumrān).