bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neighborhood Greenspace and Socioeconomic Risk are Associated with Diabetes Risk at the Sub-neighborhood Scale: Results from the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) Study
Authors: Walker Blake Byron , Brinkmann Sebastian Tobias , Große Tim , Kremer Dominik , Schuurman Nadine , Hystad Perry , Rangarajan Sumathy , Teo Koon , Yusuf Salim , Lear Scott A.
Published: May 2022

Greenspace and socioeconomic status are known correlates of diabetes prevalence, but their combined effects at the sub-neighborhood scale are not yet known. This study derives, maps, and validates a combined socioeconomic/greenspace index of individual-level diabetes risk at the sub-neighborhood scale, without the need for clinical measurements. In two Canadian cities (Vancouver and Hamilton), we computed 4 greenspace variables from satellite imagery and extracted 11 socioeconomic variables from the Canadian census. We mapped 5125 participants from the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology Study by their residential address and used age- and sex-dependent walking speeds to estimate individual exposure zones to local greenspace and socioeconomic characteristics, which were then entered into a principal component analysis to derive a novel diabetes risk index (DRI-GLUCoSE). We mapped index scores in both study areas and validated the index using fully adjusted logistic regression models to predict individual diabetes status. Model performance was then compared to other non-clinical diabetes risk indices from the literature. Diabetes prevalence among participants was 9.9%. The DRI-GLUCoSE index was a significant predictor of diabetes status, exhibiting a small non-significant attenuation with the inclusion of dietary and physical activity variables. The final models achieved a predictive accuracy of 75%, the highest among environmental risk models to date. Our combined index of local greenspace and socioeconomic factors demonstrates that the environmental component of diabetes risk is not sufficiently explained by diet and physical activity, and that increasing urban greenspace may be a suitable means of reducing the burden of diabetes at the community scale.
Influence of Strain Rate Sensitivity on Cube Texture Evolution in Aluminium Alloys
Authors: Cantergiani Elisa , Falkinger Georg , Mitsche Stefan , Theissing Moritz , Klitschke Silke , Roters Franz
Published: May 2022

The influence of strain rate sensitivity on development of Cube texture and on the morphology of Cube-oriented grains is often neglected in simulations approaches. Therefore, crystal plasticity simulations and experiments were performed up to 73 pct of thickness reduction for cold rolling on Al 6016. It is found, that low values of strain rate sensitivity promote Cube grains fragmentation and avoid formation of transition bands already at 50 to 55 pct thickness reduction. High values of strain-rate sensitivity cause formation of Cube transition bands leaving thin Cube grains in the microstructure and delay their fragmentation. Other texture components are affected by changes in strain rate sensitivity as well. The Copper volume fraction in the final texture diminishes as the strain rate sensitivity decreases, while Brass and S components of the beta fiber show a moderately higher volume fraction when the strain rate sensitivity increases. The final volume fraction of Goss is highest when the strain rate sensitivity is 10−2 but low if the strain rate sensitivity is 10−3 or raises up to 10−1. Recrystallization texture components (P, Q) are not affected by strain rate sensitivity, while the invGoss fraction decreases for high values of strain rate sensitivity. The results found in cold rolling crystal plasticity simulations were compared with experimentally determined Cube distribution and texture components obtained through thickness for Al6016 rolled at 80 m/min and 600 m/min. Further crystal plasticity simulations were performed to predict the influence of strain rate sensitivity during several hot rolling conditions where activity of non-octahedral slip systems was included in the simulations. During hot rolling, high values of strain rate sensitivity contribute to Cube stabilization and promote formation of Copper texture and delay Brass and S.
A Review of Thermally Sprayed Polymer Coatings
Authors: Koivuluoto Heli
Published: May 2022

Thermal spraying of polymer coatings has been applied for many decades. Initially, the focus was primarily on corrosion and wear protection. Manufacturing was performed with traditional methods, such as flame and plasma spraying. Later, thermal spray technologies were developed, and interest increased in producing polymer or polymer-composite coatings from different polymer materials with advanced spray processes. Additionally, novel application fields were studied, such as the use of thermally sprayed polymer coatings for anti-icing and anti-fouling purposes. This review summarizes thermally sprayed polymer coatings from the standpoints of materials, processes used and selected latest application fields.
Influence of Silver Nanoferrite and Nanochromite on Physical Properties for High-Frequency and Biomedical Applications
Authors: El-Bassuony Asmaa.A. H. , Gamal W. M. , Abdelsalam H. K.
Published: May 2022

In this work, the effects of silver nanoferrite and nanochromite (Ag2Fe2O2, Ag2Cr2O4) were studied using the flash auto-combustion technique. Numerous physical properties were clarified from the different structures determined from the x-ray examination such as lattice parameter the cation dispersion, oxygen parameter, hopping length, and interatomic distance. Among antimicrobial properties, Ag addition to both samples showed high efficacy against both types of tested bacteria (gram-positive and gram-negative); however, they showed moderate effect against Candida albicans fungus. No activity appeared against Aspergillus flavus fungus for both samples. The switching field and high-frequency response of Ag2Fe2O4 and Ag2Cr2O4 nanoparticles were studied from the magnetic properties. Ag2Cr2O4 nanoparticles are expected to be used for high-frequency applications more than Ag2Fe2O4 ones. As a result of all previous analyses, the applications of this study promote the use of Ag2Fe2O4 nanoferrite and Ag2Cr2O4 nanochromite for high-frequency, switching field, and biomedical applications as antimicrobial nanomaterials.
Refugee Women’s Receptiveness for Virtual Engagement on Reproductive Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Thiel de Bocanegra Heike , Goliaei Zahra , Khan Nossin , Banna Sereen , Behnam Rawnaq , Mody Sheila K
Published: May 2022

Background

Refugee women who leave their country due to persecution and violence have multiple barriers to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. The COVID-19 pandemic added an additional barrier to in-person reproductive health education, dialogue, and clinical care. This study aimed to assess the potential of using virtual group meetings as a forum for refugee women to learn about and discuss reproductive health concerns such as cervical cancer screening, family planning, childbirth, and postpartum care.

Method

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 36 refugee women and stakeholders to assess factors that impact refugee women’s receptiveness for virtual platforms to obtain information and engage in discussions on reproductive health. Thematic analysis was conducted using the software Dedoose.

Results

Openness to engage in virtual platforms varied by refugee community, women’s demographic, and life experience. The women’s involvement with local refugee groups facilitated their engagement with virtual platforms. Furthermore, individuals’ family structure and marital relationship, along with literacy and English proficiency, and access to and familiarity with technology impacted engagement. Virtual groups needed to mirror confidentiality and women expressed a strong preference that groups were all-women.

Conclusion

Refugee women are receptive to virtual groups on SRH when they are offered in a culturally appropriate manner that considers the living situations and access to technology after arrival to the USA. Findings from this study provide a framework to develop and tailor effective virtual or hybrid virtual-in-person programs for women in refugee communities.
Prediction of Microstructure for AISI316L Steel from Numerical Simulation of Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Abrami Maria Beatrice , Tocci Marialaura , Obeidi Muhannad Ahmed , Brabazon Dermot , Pola Annalisa
Published: May 2022

Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) success in the industrial scenario strongly depends on the ability to manufacture components without defects and with high building rates, but also on the ability to effectively control the microstructure to gain the required properties in the final component. In this regard, the recently developed numerical simulation software of L-PBF technologies can represent an effective tool, since many of them provide solidification data (i.e. temperature gradient and cooling rate) useful for microstructure prediction. In this work, a numerical model was applied to simulate the processing of four single scan tracks of 316L stainless steel processed with different parameters. Temperature and cooling rate around the melt pool were extracted from the numerical model and used to estimate the microstructure cellular arm spacing and the microhardness. Experimental measurements were then compared with the estimated values revealing good agreement. The good agreement between experimental and estimated values shows the advantages of the proposed method for microstructure and microhardness prediction based on numerical modelling as a useful resource for process optimization according to the required final microstructural features.

Graphical Abstract
A Short Note on the Aftershock Duration of Strong to Major Himalayan Earthquakes
Authors: Gupta Harsh K. , Rekapalli Rajesh
Published: May 2022

Earthquakes of M ≥ 5 tend to be locally damaging, specifically when these are the aftershocks of larger earthquakes, as the main shock would have weakened the structures. For the rescue operations and general well-being of the local residents, it is helpful if an estimate is available as to how long M ≥ 5 aftershocks would continue to occur. Earthquakes M ≥ 6.5 tend to be followed by aftershocks of M ≥ 5. In this study, aftershock sequences of seven earthquakes of magnitude M ≥ 6.5 were analyzed. Six among these are in the Himalayan region and the remaining one is in the near vicinity in China. The analysis suggests that the number of M ≥ 5 aftershocks and the duration of their occurrence decrease with the decrease of the mainshock magnitude. For the 2008 Sichuan earthquake of M 7.9 there were 136 M ≥ 5 aftershocks, while for 1975 Kinnaur earthquake of M 6.8 there were only 9. The aftershock duration of the Himalayan region earthquakes obeys the exponential law T = AecM, where the A and c are constants associated with regional fault settings. This relation is helpful in providing an estimate of the time for which M ≥ 5 aftershock activity would continue after the occurrence of a M ≥ 6.5 earthquakes.
Reserves and Resources of Iron Ores of India – A Perspective
Authors: Krishnamurthy K. V.
Published: May 2022

With a total resource of 22,487 million tonnes of haematite (Fe2O3) and 10,789 million tonnes of magnetite (Fe3O4), India ranks seventh among the countries to possess abundant iron ore resources, in the world. India is not only one of the leading producers of iron ore but also at present second largest manufacturer of steel in the world (2021). Though the country can boast of huge good quality iron ore resources, the percentage of reserves to total resources is quite dismal as only 5,422 million tonnes (24%) of haematite and mere 53 million tonnes (0.49%) of magnetite resources are categorised as reserves as on 1.4.2015 as per UNFC categorisation. It is a matter of great concern that with rapid expansion in the steel manufacturing capacity, there will be unprecedented demand for iron ore for domestic consumption, since it is estimated that by the year 2030 India is likely to produce 300 m.t. of steel to meet the ever-growing domestic demand. Besides, India is likely to continue its iron ore export to keep the structural balance in the international market. In such a situation, can India equip itself to meet the surging demand for iron ore and what should be the strategy for the country not only to augment its iron ore resources but also to enhance its reserve base to a respectable level. This paper attempts to analyse the existing iron ore resources vis-a-vis demand-supply balance of iron ore for the year 2029-30, considering the pros and cons of the existing government policies.
Application of the Compound Factor for Runoff Potential in Sub-watersheds Prioritisation Based on Quantitative Morphometric Analysis
Authors: Shaikh Mohamedmaroof , Yadav Sanjaykumar , Manekar Vivek
Published: May 2022

Accurate watershed delineation and drainage system extraction are critical tasks for the hydrological and geomorphological model. Watershed morphology evaluation is very important for flood control and recovery planning. It is beneficial for understanding the basin’s hydrology. In this study, the Rel river basin was selected, located in Gujarat, India. This study deals with the runoff potential in the semi-gauged Rel river basin depending on the detailed morphometric study. The Survey of India (SOI) topographic sheet (1:50000) and geographical information system (GIS) tools have been used for the detailed study in the evaluation of morphometric parameters. For accuracy in flat terrain, a topographic sheet has been used instead of DEM. Manually digitise the drainage from the SOI topographic sheet to precisely divide the watershed boundary; after that, the Rel basin has been divided into five sub-watersheds (SWs), namely, SW1 SW2, SW3, SW4 and SW5. Twenty-eight morphometric parameters have been calculated for each sub-watershed (SW). For runoff potential, twenty-one effective morphometric parameters have been selected based on previous studies.A compound factor (CF) model has been used for the SWs prioritisation. Twenty-one effective morphometric parameters have been considered in the CF model. The model results indicated that SW2 has a very-high runoff potential, and SW3 has a very-low runoff potential. The methodology developed and the results presented here will be critical in developing a comprehensive sub-watershed management plan. The work’s results can better understand the topography, nature of the basin, and the delineation of a suitable soil conservation site and mitigate flash floods in the flat region.
Understanding the Contaminant Chemistry of Water Resources at Urban Solid Waste Disposal Site, Hyderabad, India
Authors: Peddi Nageswara Rao , Adlagunvan Sugrive Reddy , Gumma Ravi Kumar
Published: May 2022

The Hyderabad urban solid waste dump site, though located on a rocky hillock, has a highly weathered mantle apart from an interconnected network of fractures. These hydrological features favored massive dissipation of contaminants into the surface as well as sub-surface water resources. The surface water bodies in the vicinity turned into leachate pools and groundwater in the zone of influence is not fit for any use. Both surface (15) and groundwater (79) samples were collected during 2011 and 2012 hydrological cycles and tested for major parameters. A few samples (15) of 2012 were also analyzed to determine TOC, BOD, and COD. The general order of abundance of prominent ion species in groundwater was Cl-, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, HCO3- and SO42-. A very high and similar Clconcentration in surface water (37 meq/l) and contaminated groundwater (40 mq/l) establish that solid waste stockpile was the point source through leachate. The presence of high (>200 mg/l) TOC, BOD, and COD in many surface and groundwater samples supports the inference. Modified Piper plots display the Ca-Mg-Cl and Ca-Mg-HCO3 were the dominant hydrochemical facies in groundwater, whereas many surface water and few groundwater samples belong to Na-Cl/SO4 type. A good correlation (~0.90) between Cl- - Ca2+, TH, Na+, and Mg2+ points out that these ion species were from the same source. Gibbs plots, positive CAI-1 and 2, together with >2 ratios of Ca2+/Mg2+, Cl-/Na+ in many samples divulge water-rock interaction and ion exchange were also controlling the hydrochemistry. The low HCO3-/Cl-, TA/TH and SO42-/HCO3- values indicate an insufficient influx of freshwater and non-lithogenic sources altered the groundwater chemistry. Favorable hydrochemistry in the form of alkaline water, high TH, Cl- and prevailing redox conditions as well as methanogenic phase of dump yard might have spurred up ion enrichment activity within the zone of influence of point source.
SS18-SSX drives CREB activation in synovial sarcoma
Authors: Cyra Magdalene , Schulte Miriam , Berthold Ruth , Heinst Lorena , Jansen Esther-Pia , Grünewald Inga , Elges Sandra , Larsson Olle , Schliemann Christoph , Steinestel Konrad , Hafner Susanne , Simmet Thomas , Wardelmann Eva , Kailayangiri Sareetha , Rossig Claudia , Isfort Ilka , Trautmann Marcel , Hartmann Wolfgang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Synovial sarcoma (SySa) is a rare soft tissue tumor characterized by a reciprocal t(X;18) translocation. The chimeric SS18-SSX fusion protein represents the major driver of the disease, acting as aberrant transcriptional dysregulator. Oncogenic mechanisms whereby SS18-SSX mediates sarcomagenesis are incompletely understood, and strategies to selectively target SySa cells remain elusive. Based on results of Phospho-Kinase screening arrays, we here investigate the functional and therapeutic relevance of the transcription factor CREB in SySa tumorigenesis.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry of phosphorylated CREB and its downstream targets (Rb, Cyclin D1, PCNA, Bcl-xL and Bcl-2) was performed in a large cohort of SySa. Functional aspects of CREB activity, including SS18-SSX driven circuits involved in CREB activation, were analyzed in vitro employing five SySa cell lines and a mesenchymal stem cell model. CREB mediated transcriptional activity was modulated by RNAi-mediated knockdown and small molecule inhibitors (666-15, KG-501, NASTRp and Ro 31-8220). Anti-proliferative effects of the CREB inhibitor 666-15 were tested in SySa avian chorioallantoic membrane and murine xenograft models in vivo.

Results

We show that CREB is phosphorylated and activated in SySa, accompanied by downstream target expression. Human mesenchymal stem cells engineered to express SS18-SSX promote CREB expression and phosphorylation. Conversely, RNAi-mediated knockdown of SS18-SSX impairs CREB phosphorylation in SySa cells. Inhibition of CREB activity reduces downstream target expression, accompanied by suppression of SySa cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis invitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our data underline an essential role of CREB in SySa tumorigenesis and provides evidence for molecular targeted therapies.
Clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients treated with remdesivir: a retrospective analysis of a large tertiary care center in Germany
Authors: Marx Kathrin , Gončarova Ksenija , Fedders Dieter , Kalbitz Sven , Kellner Nils , Fedders Maike , Lübbert Christoph
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The benefits of antiviral treatment with remdesivir in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 remain controversial. Clinical analyses are needed to demonstrate which patient populations are most likely to benefit.

Methods

In a retrospective monocentric analysis, patients with COVID-19 treated between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021 at Hospital St. Georg, Leipzig, Germany were evaluated. The primary endpoint was time to clinical improvement, and the secondary endpoint was 28-day mortality. Propensity score matching was used for the endpoint analysis.

Results

A total of 839 patients were fully evaluated, 68% of whom received specific COVID-19 drug therapy. Remdesivir was used in 31.3% of the patients, corticosteroids in 61.7%, and monoclonal antibodies in 2.3%. While dexamethasone administration was the most common therapeutic approach during the second pandemic wave, combination therapy with remdesivir and corticosteroids predominated during the third wave. Cox regression analysis revealed that combination therapy was not associated with faster clinical improvement (median: 13 days in both matched groups, HR 0.97 [95% CI 0.77–1.21], P = 0.762). By contrast, 28-day mortality was significantly lower in the corticosteroid-remdesivir group (14.8% versus 22.2% in the corticosteroid group, HR 0.60 [95% CI 0.39–0.95], P = 0.03) in the low-care setting. This effect was also demonstrated in a subgroup analysis of patients with remdesivir monotherapy (n = 44) versus standard of care (SOC).

Conclusion

In COVID-19 patients with only mild disease (low-flow oxygen therapy and treatment in a normal ward) who received corticosteroids and/or remdesivir in addition to SOC, early administration of remdesivir was associated with a measurable survival benefit.
Self-ball milling strategy to construct high-entropy oxide coated LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 with enhanced electrochemical performance
Authors: Yuan Kai , Tu Tianzhe , Shen Chao , Zhou Lin , Liu Jixuan , Li Jing , Xie Keyu , Zhang Guojun
Published: May 2022

High-entropy oxides (HEOs) are a new class of emerging materials with fascinating properties (such as structural stability, tensile strength, and corrosion resistance). High-entropy oxide coated Ni-rich cathode materials have great potential to improve the electrochemical performance. Here, we present a facile self-ball milling method to obtain (La0.2Nd0.2Sm0.2Eu0.2Gd0.2)2Zr2O7 (HEO) coated LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811). The HEO coating endows NCM811 with a stable surface, reduces the contact with the external environment (air and electrolyte), and inhibits side reactions between cathode and electrolyte. These favorable effects, especially when the coating amount is 5 wt%, result in a significant reduction of the battery polarization and an increase in the capacity retention from 57.3% (NCM811) to 74.2% (5HEO-NCM811) after 300 cycles at 1 C (1 C = 200 mA·h·g−1). Moreover, the morphology and spectroscopy analysis after the cycles confirmed the inhibitory effect of the HEO coating on electrolyte decomposition, which is important for the cycle life. Surprisingly, HEO coating reduces the viscosity of slurry by 37%–38% and significantly improves the flowability of the slurry with high solid content. This strategy confirms the feasibility of HEO-modified Ni-rich cathode materials and provides a new idea for the design of high-performance cathode materials for Li-ion batteries.
Steering resilience in coastal and marine cultural heritage
Authors: Flannery Wesley , Ounanian Kristen , Toonen Hilde , van Tatenhove Jan , Murtagh Brendan , Ferguson Laura , Delaney Alyne , Kenter Jasper , Azzopardi Elaine , Pita Cristina , Mylona Dimitra , Witteveen Loes , Hansen Carsten Jahn , Howells Matt , Macias Jordi Vegas , Lamers Machiel , Sousa Lisa , da Silva Ana Margarida Ferreira , Taylor Steve , Roio Maili , Karro Krista , Saimre Tanel
Published: May 2022

Coastal and marine cultural heritage (CMCH) is at risk due to its location and its often indefinable value. As these risks are likely to intensify in the future, there is an urgent need to build CMCH resilience. We argue that the current CMCH risk management paradigm narrowly focuses on the present and preservation. This tends to exclude debates about the contested nature of resilience and how it may be achieved beyond a strict preservationist approach. There is a need, therefore, to progress a broader and more dynamic framing of CMCH management that recognises the shift away from strict preservationist approaches and incorporates the complexity of heritage’s socio-political contexts. Drawing on critical cultural heritage literature, we reconceptualise CMCH management by rethinking the temporality of cultural heritage. We argue that cultural heritage may exist in four socio-temporal manifestations (extant, lost, dormant, and potential) and that CMCH management consists of three broad socio-political steering processes (continuity, discontinuity, and transformation). Our reconceptualisation of CMCH management is a first step in countering the presentness trap in CMCH management. It provides a useful conceptual framing through which to understand processes beyond the preservationist approach and raises questions about the contingent and contested nature of CMCH, ethical questions around loss and transformation, and the democratisation of cultural heritage management.
Are Distressed Black Women Also Depressed? Implications for a Mental Health Paradox
Authors: Robinson Millicent N. , Erving Christy L. , Thomas Tobin Courtney S.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Recent research suggests the determinants of and links between psychological distress and psychiatric disorder are distinct among Black Americans. Yet, these associations have not been explored among Black women, despite the unique social experiences, risks, and mental health patterns they face. The present study assessed the sociodemographic and psychosocial determinants of distress and disorder and evaluated the distress–disorder association, including whether it was conditional on sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics among Black women.

Methods

Data were from 328 Black women in the Nashville Stress and Health Study, a cross-sectional community epidemiologic survey of Blacks and Whites in Nashville, Tennessee, and was used to assess the correlates of distress (CES-D depressive symptoms scale) and major depressive disorder (MDD; based on the CIDI). Multinomial logistic regression models estimated the extent to which greater distress was associated with higher risk of “chronic” or “resolved MDD”.

Results

Stress exposure and marital status were associated with greater distress, while stress exposure and childhood SES were associated with elevated disorder risk. Although increased distress was associated with greater disorder risk, significant interactions indicated these associations depend on differences in age and adult socioeconomic status within this population.

Conclusions

This study identifies distinct correlates of distress and disorder and shows that the distress–disorder association varies among subgroups of Black women. Results have important implications for public health research and practice, as they highlight the factors that matter most for the mental health outcomes of Black women.
Family Climate and Social Adaptation of Adolescents in Community Samples: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kurock Ricarda , Gruchel Nicole , Bonanati Sabrina , Buhl Heike M.
Published: May 2022

The family plays an important role in adolescents’ social development. Yet there is little information about the impact of family climate on adolescents’ social adaptation, and the term “family climate” is seldom clearly defined and is usually related to other concepts, such as family systems or family environments. To understand the core of family climate, this study conducted a systematic review to analyze research about family climate associated with adolescents’ social adaptation in community samples. A search of empirical research published over the last 20 years identified 12 relevant studies. The studies revealed that family climate can mainly be described in terms of cohesion, conflict, organization, adaptability, and expressiveness. Family climate was shown to be a good predictor of both problem-solving skills and violence in relationships and exhibited further associations with other aspects of social adaptation. This review revealed a need for more systematic and longitudinal research on family climate in community samples.
Religious policing: how religion and level of religiosity shape officer’s interaction with minority groups
Authors: Miles-Johnson Toby
Published: May 2022

Like other Western nations, policing in Australia is considered a secular practice. Whilst policing in Australia is meant to be free from the influence of religious ideals and religious doctrine, it is unknown whether Australian police officers are influenced by the social practices, morals, beliefs, cultural practices, and laws fortified by religious ideologies. Arguably religious beliefs may influence police officers’ adherence to retributive policing practices, police prejudice towards certain groups, and intergroup anxiety, but research examining this is missing from the extant Australian policing literature. As such, this study determines how Australian officers’ religious identity and individual level of religiosity (religious belief, religious knowledge, religious experience, religious practice, and religious consequence) may shape policing of people from minority groups during police–citizen interaction. Using a logistic regression, the results from this research conducted with police officers from one Australian state police organisation (N = 1172) indicate that many officers with high levels of religiosity perceive that they are likely to follow their religion's teachings and doctrines closely and will apply them in different contexts at work, which may also shape their judgement of people from minority groups during police–citizen interaction.
Biomarkers and Disease Trajectories Influencing Women’s Health: Results from the UK Biobank Cohort
Authors: Yang Haomin , Pawitan Yudi , Fang Fang , Czene Kamila , Ye Weimin
Published: May 2022

Women’s health is important for society. Despite the known biological and sex-related factors influencing the risk of diseases among women, the network of the full spectrum of diseases in women is underexplored. This study aimed to systematically examine the women-specific temporal pattern (trajectory) of the disease network, including the role of baseline physical examination indexes, and blood and urine biomarkers. In the UK Biobank study, 502,650 participants entered the cohort from 2006 to 2010, and were followed up until 2019 to identify disease incidence via linkage to the patient registers. For those diseases with increased risk among women, conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs), and the binomial test of direction was further used to build disease trajectories. Among 301 diseases, 82 diseases in women had ORs > 1.2 and p < 0.00017 when compared to men, involving mainly diseases in the endocrine, skeletal and digestive systems. Diseases with the highest ORs included breast diseases, osteoporosis, hyperthyroidism, and deformity of the toes. The biomarker and disease trajectories suggested estradiol as a risk predictor for breast cancer, while a high percentage of reticulocyte, body mass index and waist circumference were associated with an increased risk of upper-limb neuropathy. In addition, the risk of cholelithiasis was increased in women diagnosed with dyspepsia and diaphragmatic hernia. In conclusion, women are at an increased risk of endocrine, skeletal and digestive diseases. The biomarker and disease trajectories in women suggested key pathways to a range of adverse outcomes downstream, which may shed light on promising targets for early detection and prevention of these diseases.
Collaboration and partnerships between South African higher education institutions and stakeholders: case study of a post-apartheid University
Authors: Bidandi Fred , Anthony Ambe Nofor , Mukong Claudia
Published: May 2022

In this paper we attempt to locate collaboration and partnerships between higher education institutions and their stakeholders. These include the state, students, teaching and administrative staff, the community and corporate entities. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the contribution of stakeholders to the developmental trajectory and sustenance of higher education institutions using the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town, South Africa as the case study. The paper analyses existing scholarship to understand the importance of stakeholders and their impact on higher education institutions. The study first examines the stakeholders’ concept in the post-apartheid period, the concept of stakeholder in relation to HEIs, UWC and collaborations and partnership with stakeholders from a theoretical perspective, and the stakeholder collaborations and partnership from UWC perspective. The study adopted a qualitative approach utilising existing data from literature and interviews with participants. Conceptual analysis was used to analyse the data. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key participants. In total, 10 participants participated in the interviews.
Safety and Efficacy of Elective Switch from Nilotinib to Imatinib in Newly Diagnosed Chronic Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ibrahim Ali , Moukalled Nour , Mahfouz Rami , El Cheikh Jean , Bazarbachi Ali , Abou Dalle Iman
Published: May 2022

The treatment of newly diagnosed chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with nilotinib has resulted in a higher rate of major molecular (MMR) and complete cytogenetic response (CCyR) at 12 months compared to imatinib but at a higher cumulative cost and increased risk of serious adverse events. To maintain long-term efficacy and minimize both toxicity and costs, we aimed at evaluating in a prospective single-center trial the efficacy and safety of a response-directed switch from nilotinib to imatinib after 12 months in patients newly diagnosed with chronic phase CML. Thirteen adult patients were enrolled. Twelve patients started on nilotinib 300 mg twice daily. Eleven patients completed one year of nilotinib and were switched to imatinib 400 mg daily as per protocol. At 3 months, all patients achieved a complete hematologic response, with 7 (58%) patients had early molecular response. At 12 months, all patients achieved CCyR, of whom 5 (42%) and 4 (33%) patients achieved MMR and MR4.5, respectively. Three (27%) patients switched back to nilotinib after 18, 24, and 51 months respectively: 1 patient because of loss of CCyR after 18 months, and 2 patients because of imatinib intolerance. At last follow-up, all patients (n = 12) were alive and in MMR, 6 (50%) of them in continuous MR4.5. These findings suggest that response directed switch from nilotinib to imatinib at 12 months is capable of maintaining long-term response, with manageable side effects. This approach warrants further exploration with larger prospective trials. Clinical trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01316250, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=&term=NCT01316250&cntry=&state=&city=&dist=.
EU Law and Governance
Authors: Dawson Mark , de Witte Floris
Published: May 2022

What is the EU for? In light of the current state of European integration, EU law cannot meaningfully be appreciated without understanding the political, social and cultural context within which it operates. This textbook proposes a fresh, accessible and interdisciplinary take on the subject that is suitable for one-semester and introductory courses wishing to engage the reader with the wider context of the EU project. It situates the institutions, legal order and central policy domains of the EU in their context and offer students the tools to critically analyse and reflect on European integration and its consequences. With pedagogical features such as further reading, class questions and essay/exams questions to support learning, this textbook enables students to form their own informed opinion on whether the EU offers an appropriate answer to the many questions that it is asked.
Regulating Transnational Sustainability Regimes
Authors: Partiti Enrico
Published: May 2022

The book studies emergence and consolidation of voluntary sustainability standards (VSS); private standards defining sustainability-related product features. The book takes stock of their success and their potential in mediating between economic and non-economic concerns of global production. Despite their private and voluntary nature, VSS generate profound consequences for the producers seeking certification, for the consumers purchasing certified products, and for others affected by their standards. VSS are used by public authorities in the EU as a functional complement to public measures regulating global value chains. At this juncture of market proliferation and public use of private regimes, this book studies how public authority can control, coordinate and review VSS. It studies how the regulation of VSS could unfold through substantive and procedural legal requirements in the domain of European Union law and World Trade Organisation law, as well as through the incentives offered by VSS employment in public measures.
On the multi-fidelity approach in surrogate-based multidisciplinary design optimisation of high-aspect-ratio wing aircraft
Authors: Lobo do Vale J. , Sohst M. , Crawford C. , Suleman A. , Potter G. , Banerjee S.
Published: May 2022

The reduction of computational costs in the context of the Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation of a typical medium-range aircraft was investigated through an assessment of active constraints and the use of multi-fidelity models-based estimation of drag and structural stress. The results show that for this problem, from the set of considered constraints that includes flutter boundary, the active constraint is a 2.5g pull up Maximum Take Off Weight. Results show that the multi-fidelity approach reduced the required high-fidelity aerodynamic number of evaluations, for both drag assessment and stress assessment with sufficient level of accuracy for the former and conservatively for the latter. Further computational cost reduction can be achieved using a surrogate model based Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation. The best configuration attained shows an Aspect Ratio increase of 16%, a reduction of 4.5% in fuel consumption and wing structural weight increase of 2.7% relative to a predefined baseline configuration.
Effects of religion on the course of suicidality among geriatric patients with mood disorders
Authors: Rosmarin David H. , Pirutinsky Steven , Park Soohyun , Drury Mia , Harper David , Forester Brent P.
Published: May 2022

Background

A growing volume of research suggests that religion protects against late-life suicide, but it remains unclear whether effects are relevant to clinical samples, which facets of religion are most relevant, and variations over the course of mood disorders (e.g. during periods of euthymia, depression, and/or heightened suicidality).

Method

Eighty adults aged 55–85 years with mood disorders completed assessments of religion (affiliation, service attendance, importance of religion, belief and faith in God), depression, and suicidality over time (M = 7.31 measurements over M = 727 days). We computed metrics to identify mean and maximum levels of depression and suicidality, and the number of episodes of significant depression and suicidality experienced by each participant.

Results

Religious affiliation and importance of religion, but not service attendance, belief, or faith in God, were associated with lower mean and maximum depression. Conversely, all facets of religion predicted significantly lower mean and maximum levels of suicidality (rs ranging from −0.24 to −0.39), and substantially less likelihood of experiencing significant suicidality during the study (ORs ranging from 0.19 to 0.33). Service attendance, belief, and faith in God predicted less suicidality even among individuals who did not affiliate with a religious group.

Conclusions

Religious factors, particularly faith in God, are associated with substantially less suicidality over time among older adults with mood disorders, irrespective of religious affiliation.
Testing transactional processes between parental support and adolescent depressive symptoms: From a daily to a biennial timescale
Authors: Boele Savannah , Nelemans Stefanie A. , Denissen Jaap J. A. , Prinzie Peter , Bülow Anne , Keijsers Loes
Published: May 2022

Transactional processes between parental support and adolescents’ depressive symptoms might differ in the short term versus long term. Therefore, this multi-sample study tested bidirectional within-family associations between perceived parental support and depressive symptoms in adolescents with datasets with varying measurement intervals: Daily (N = 244, Mage = 13.8 years, 38% male), bi-weekly (N = 256, Mage = 14.4 years, 29% male), three-monthly (N = 245, Mage = 13.9 years, 38% male), annual (N = 1,664, Mage = 11.1 years, 51% male), and biennial (N = 502, Mage = 13.8 years, 48% male). Preregistered random-intercept cross-lagged panel models (RI-CLPMs) showed negative between- and within-family correlations. Moreover, although the preregistered models showed no within-family lagged effect from perceived parental support to adolescent depressive symptoms at any timescale, an exploratory model demonstrated a negative lagged effect at a biennial timescale with the annual dataset. Concerning the reverse within-family lagged effect, increases in adolescent depressive symptoms predicted decreases in perceived parental support 2 weeks and 3 months later (relationship erosion effect). Most cross-lagged effects were not moderated by adolescent sex or neuroticism trait level. Thus, the findings mostly support adolescent-driven effects at understudied timescales and illustrate that within-family lagged effects do not generalize across timescales.
Psychometric properties of the Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Scale for Children and Young People (CBTS-CYP) in a Turkish sample
Authors: Gormez Vahdet , Çakıroğlu Süleyman , Bıkmazer Alperen , Stallard Paul
Published: May 2022

Background:

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) training is highly demanded by clinicians; however, a standardized competence assessment for professionals working with children and young people (CYP) can be problematic. Psychometric tools used for this purpose are typically adult oriented measures.

Aim:

The present study provides psychometric properties of the Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Scale for Children and Young People (CBTS-CYP) derived from a comparative analysis with the Cognitive Therapy Scale (CTS).

Method:

The CBTS-CYP was used alongside CTS in a CBT supervision training course, consisting of a cohort of 51 therapists. A total of 36 audio/video recorded full CBT sessions were assessed for the purpose of determining CBT competence and adherence to the theory and model. The training involved a total of 80 hours of supervision in 10 meetings via an online videoconferencing platform between July 2020 and February 2021.

Results:

Face validity and inter-rater reliability of CBTS-CYP were high, with the intraclass correlation values being good (0.60–0.74) or excellent (0.74 and above); the correlations of each CBTS-CYP and CTS items were significant; internal consistency of the scale showed that Cronbach alpha values for total-scale and its two subdimensions were above .93. For a cut-off score of 55 out of 90, sensitivity reached 90.73% and specificity 90.73%. A score of 2 points or above from any single item could be considered as the second minimum criterion for competence.

Conclusions:

CBTS-CYP offers a valid and reliable scale to evaluate the competence and adherence quality of CBT sessions with children and adolescents.
Rice blast resistance gene profiling of Thai, Japanese and international rice varieties using gene-specific markers
Authors: Teerasan Wattanaporn , Moonsap Pattaraborn , Longya Apinya , Damchuay Katanyutita , Ito Shin-ichi , Tasanasuwan Piyama , Kate-Ngam Sureeporn , Jantasuriyarat Chatchawan
Published: May 2022

Rice blast disease, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae, is one of the most damaging diseases of rice worldwide. Cultivation of rice varieties carrying resistance genes is the most economic and successful strategy to control the disease. In this study, 451 rice varieties from around the world including 363 Thai landrace rice varieties, 21 Thai improved rice varieties, 43 Japanese rice varieties and 24 worldwide rice varieties were screened by PCR technique using gene-specific markers for 10 rice blast resistance genes: Pi9, Piz-t, Pi50, Pigm(t), Pid2, Pid3, Pia, Pik, Pi54 and Pita. The results showed that 382 (99.48%) Thai rice varieties have at least one resistance gene and two rice varieties, ‘Hom’ and ‘Bak muay’, contained eight out of ten screened rice blast resistance genes. 320 rice varieties (83.33%) contained three or more rice blast resistance genes. The frequency of the rice blast resistance gene ranges from 87.76–9.64 per cent, of which the Pid3 gene has the highest frequency and the Pi54 gene has the lowest frequency. Two major resistance genes, found in Japanese rice varieties, are the Pik gene (76.74%) and the Pi9 gene (72.09%). While two major resistance genes, found in the international rice varieties are the Pi9 gene (66.67%) and the Pi54 gene (62.50%). The disease resistance gene profile of each rice variety obtained from this study will benefit the rice blast resistant breeding programme in the future.
Das Erleben der Führungsrolle in der Corona-Pandemie in hessischen Allgemeinkrankenhäusern
Authors: Schilder Michael , Mai Tobias , Todisco Laura , Potocka Justyna , Schiel Florian
Published: May 2022

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Die zweite Corona-Pandemie-Welle führt aufseiten der Pflegefachpersonen und der Leitungspersonen hessischer Allgemeinkrankenhäuser zu hohen Arbeitsanforderungen. Aus den damit verbundenen organisatorischen Herausforderungen resultieren für die Leitungspersonen Belastungen. Fragestellung/Ziel: Aufgrund der hohen Bedeutung, die den Leitungspersonen zur Absicherung der Versorgungsstrukturen zukommt, zielt diese Studie auf die Erkundung derer Wahrnehmung ihrer Führungsrolle in der Bewältigung des Pandemiemanagements. Methode: Telefonische qualitative Experteninterviews mit 13 Stations- und 13 Pflegedienstleitungen hessischer Allgemeinkrankenhäuser bilden die Grundlage für die inhaltlich strukturierende qualitative Inhaltsanalyse. Ergebnisse: Die Leitungspersonen wählen zur Unterstützung des Pflegepersonals einen persönlichen fürsorglichen Führungsstil, der auch psychosoziale Bedarfe des Pflegefachpersonals einbezieht. Ihrerseits sind die Führungspersonen hohen Belastungen ausgesetzt, denen sie u.a. mit Berufserfahrung, Resilienz und optimistischer Einstellung begegnen. Schlussfolgerungen: Gesundheitsbezogene Führung ist wesentlich für die Aufrechterhaltung der Gesundheit von Mitarbeitenden. Der Self Care der Führungspersonen sowie der Integration der betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung in das Unternehmensziel der Krankenhäuser sollte für die gegenwärtige und zukünftige Absicherung der Krisenbewältigung mehr Aufmerksamkeit zuteilwerden.
On the Role of E‐F Region Coupling in the Generation of Nighttime MSTIDs During Summer and Equinox: Case Studies Over Northern Germany
Authors: Sivakandan Mani , Martinis Carlos , Otsuka Yuichi , Chau Jorge L. , Norrell Jessica , Mielich Jens , Conte J. Federico , Stolle Claudia , Rodríguez‐Zuluaga J. , Shinbori Atsuki , Nishioka Michi , Tsugawa Takuya
Published: May 2022

Simultaneous observations from a 630 nm all‐sky airglow imager, GNSS‐TEC receivers, and an ionosonde are used to investigate the role of E‐ and F‐region coupling on the generation of medium‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs). The primary observations are OI 630 nm airglow images taken by an all‐sky imager in Kühlungsborn (54.07°N; 11.46°E, 53.79°N Mlat.), a site in northern Germany. Out of 226 nights of observations, MSTIDs were found only in 18 nights, demonstrating the low occurrence rate over Kühlungsborn. We focused on four MSTIDs events: two during the vernal equinox and two during summer. Coincident measurements of detrended GNSS‐TEC supported the presence of MSTIDs during the selected events, and simultaneous observations from the ionosonde in Juliusruh (54.60°N, 13.4°E, 54.02°N Mlat.) showed sporadic‐E (Es) layer and spread‐F activity in the E‐ and F‐region, respectively. We observed the onset of the observed MSTIDs to be around the 15°–20°E longitude and 60–45°N latitude belts. Additionally, we found that in each case, the onset of MSTIDs coincides with the presence of an Es layer with sporadic‐E trace is observed (foEs) exceeding 4 MHz. This suggests that an Es layer with foEs ≥ 4MHz was a source of the generation of these MSTIDs. Altitude of the Es layer could be another important factor in generating MSTIDs. The Es layer should exist at an altitude where Hall conductivity is large, as happened in the present study.