bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The release of adhesions improves outcome following minimally invasive repair of Achilles tendon rupture
Authors: Carmont Michael R. , Knutsson Sara Brandt , Brorsson Annelie , Karlsson Jón , Nilsson-Helander Katarina
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Operative repair of Achilles tendon rupture may lead to complications, which influence outcome adversely. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, impact and response to treatment of post-operative adhesions.

Methods

From February 2009 to 2021, 248 patients operated on with percutaneous or minimally invasive surgical repair have been prospectively evaluated using the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) and Heel-Rise Height Index (HRHI), following acute Achilles tendon rupture.

Results

Fourteen (5.6%) patients were identified as having adhesions. Four patients reported superficial adhesions and ten patients reported a deeper tightness of the tendon. At a mean (SD) of 10.5 (2.3) months following repair, the overall ATRS was at a median (IQR) 65 (44.5–78) points and (HRHI) was mean (SD) 81.5 (13.5)%. Of those deemed to have deep adhesions the antero-posterior diameter of the tendon was at mean (SD) 15.6 (4.6) mm. Open release of superficial adhesions resulted in improved ATRS in all patients. Endoscopic debridement anterior to the Achilles tendon led to alleviation of symptoms of tightness and discomfort from deep adhesions and improved outcome in terms of the ATRS score. At a mean (SD) of 15.9 (3.3)-month follow-up from initial rupture and repair, the patients reported at median (IQR) ATRS scores of 85 (64.8–92.8) points, Tegner level 5 (3–9) and mean (SD) HRHI 86.2 (9.5)%. Patients significantly improved both ATRS and HRHI following release at median (IQR) of 16.5 (− 1.8–29.3) points (p = 0.041) and mean (SD) 5.6 (8.3)% (p = 0.043).

Conclusions

The incidence of patient-reported adhesions following minimally invasive repair of Achilles tendon rupture was estimated to be 5.6%. The occurrence of superficial adhesions was associated with a lower outcome scores as well as symptoms of anterior tendon tightness and stiffness were associated with a lower score in most patients. Surgical release of adhesions led to a significant improvement in outcome.
Technology development and commercial applications of industrial fault diagnosis system: a review
Authors: Liu Chengze , Cichon Andrzej , Królczyk Grzegorz , Li Zhixiong
Published: October 2021

Machinery will fail due to complex and tough working conditions. It is necessary to apply reliable monitoring technology to ensure their safe operation. Condition-based maintenance (CBM) has attracted significant interest from the research community in recent years. This paper provides a review on CBM of industrial machineries. Firstly, the development of fault diagnosis systems is introduced systematically. Then, the main types of data in the field of the fault diagnosis are summarized. After that, the commonly used techniques for the signal processing, fault diagnosis, and remaining useful life (RUL) prediction are discussed, and the advantages and disadvantages of these existing techniques are explored for some specific applications. Typical fault diagnosis products developed by corporations and universities are surveyed. Lastly, discussions on current developing situation and possible future trends are in the CBM performed.
Machinability analysis of dry and liquid nitrogen–based cryogenic cutting of Inconel 718: experimental and FE analysis
Authors: Pervaiz Salman , Kannan Sathish , Anwar Saqib , Huo Dehong
Published: October 2021

Inconel 718 is famous for its applications in the aerospace industry due to its inherent properties of corrosion resistance, wear resistance, high creep strength, and high hot hardness. Despite the favorable properties, it has poor machinability due to low thermal conductivity and high hot hardness. To limit the influence of high cutting temperature in the cutting zone, application of cutting flood is recommended during the cutting operation. Cryogenic cooling is the recommended method when machining Inconel 718. However, there is very limited literature available when it comes to the numerical finite element modeling of the process. This current study is focused on the machinability analysis of Inconel 718 using numerical approach with experimental validations. Dry and cryogenic cooling methods were compared in terms of associated parameters such as chip compression ratio, shear angle, contact length, cutting forces, and energy consumption for the primary and secondary deformation zones. In addition, parameters related to chip morphology were also investigated under both lubrication methods. Chip formation in cryogenic machining was well captured by the finite element assisted model and found in good agreement with the experimental chip morphology. Both experimental and numerical observations revealed comparatively less chip compression ratio in the cryogenic cooling with larger value of shear plane angle. This results in the smaller tool–chip contact length and better comparative lubrication.
Automated subcortical volume estimation from 2D MRI in epilepsy and implications for clinical trials
Authors: Brownhill Daniel , Chen Yachin , Kreilkamp Barbara A. K. , de Bezenac Christophe , Denby Christine , Bracewell Martyn , Biswas Shubhabrata , Das Kumar , Marson Anthony G. , Keller Simon S.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Most techniques used for automatic segmentation of subcortical brain regions are developed for three-dimensional (3D) MR images. MRIs obtained in non-specialist hospitals may be non-isotropic and two-dimensional (2D). Automatic segmentation of 2D images may be challenging and represents a lost opportunity to perform quantitative image analysis. We determine the performance of a modified subcortical segmentation technique applied to 2D images in patients with idiopathic generalised epilepsy (IGE).

Methods

Volume estimates were derived from 2D (0.4 × 0.4 × 3 mm) and 3D (1 × 1x1mm) T1-weighted acquisitions in 31 patients with IGE and 39 healthy controls. 2D image segmentation was performed using a modified FSL FIRST (FMRIB Integrated Registration and Segmentation Tool) pipeline requiring additional image reorientation, cropping, interpolation and brain extraction prior to conventional FIRST segmentation. Consistency between segmentations was assessed using Dice coefficients and volumes across both approaches were compared between patients and controls. The influence of slice thickness on consistency was further assessed using 2D images with slice thickness increased to 6 mm.

Results

All average Dice coefficients showed excellent agreement between 2 and 3D images across subcortical structures (0.86–0.96). Most 2D volumes were consistently slightly lower compared to 3D volumes. 2D images with increased slice thickness showed lower agreement with 3D images with lower Dice coefficients (0.55–0.83). Significant volume reduction of the left and right thalamus and putamen was observed in patients relative to controls across 2D and 3D images.

Conclusion

Automated subcortical volume estimation of 2D images with a resolution of 0.4 × 0.4x3mm using a modified FIRST pipeline is consistent with volumes derived from 3D images, although this consistency decreases with an increased slice thickness. Thalamic and putamen atrophy has previously been reported in patients with IGE. Automated subcortical volume estimation from 2D images is feasible and most reliable at using in-plane acquisitions greater than 1 mm x 1 mm and provides an opportunity to perform quantitative image analysis studies in clinical trials.
Migrant workers occupational health research: an OMEGA-NET working group position paper
Authors: Aktas Emine , Bergbom Barbara , Godderis Lode , Kreshpaj Bertina , Marinov Mario , Mates Dana , McElvenny Damien M. , Mehlum Ingrid Sivesind , Milenkova Valentina , Nena Evangelia , Glass Deborah C.
Published: October 2021

Objective

The aims of the study were: (1) to clarify the definitions of “migrant” used in occupational health research; (2) to summarize migrant workers’ industry sectors, occupations and employment conditions; (3) to identify the occupational health and safety services available to migrant workers; (4) to summarize work-related health problems found among migrant workers; (5) to identify the methodological challenges to research into occupational health of migrant workers; and (6) to recommend improvements in migrant occupational health research.

Methods

This position paper was prepared by researchers from several European countries and Australia, working within the EU COST Action OMEGA-NET. The paper drew on two recent systematic reviews on the occupational health of international migrant workers and other literature, and also identified uncertainties and gaps in the research literature. Migrants may, for example, be temporary or permanent, moving for specific jobs migrants or other reasons. Their ethnicity and language capabilities will affect their work opportunities.

Results

The occupational health literature seldom adequately identifies the heterogeneity or characteristics of the migrant group being studied. Migrants tend to work in more physically and mentally demanding environments with higher exposures than native workers. Migrants tend to have an increased risk of physical and mental ill health, but less access to health care services. This has been demonstrated recently by high rates of COVID-19 and less access to health care. There have been a number of cross-sectional studies of migrant health but few long-term cohort studies were identified. Other study designs, such as registry-based studies, surveys and qualitative studies may complement cross-sectional studies. Mixed-methodology studies would be valuable in research on migrants’ occupational health. Language and lack of trust are barriers to migrant research participation.

Conclusion

Targeted research, especially longitudinal, identifying how these economically important but often-vulnerable workers can be best assisted is needed. Researchers should identify the characteristics of the migrant workers that they are studying including visa/migration circumstances (temporary, permanent, undocumented), racial and ethnic characteristics, existing skills and language abilities.
Design-based research with mARC ID model: designing experiential learning environments
Authors: Radović Slaviša , Hummel Hans G. K. , Vermeulen Marjan
Published: October 2021

The relationship between experience (through practice) and knowledge (by theory) is becoming increasingly important in contemporary educational research and development. Where educational curricula aim to support students in linking practical experience to their academic knowledge development, experiential learning appears complex to design with high instructional prerequisites that make it difficult to achieve. This article reports the process of redesigning an experiential learning environment throughout iterative design-based research. For reasons of methodological consistency, we first introduce and discuss the mARC instructional design model that identifies three pillars of experiential learning (more Authenticity, Reflection, and Collaboration). We then present three empirical studies of how the implementation of the mARC model affected the quality of learning process and outcomes. The results of our design-based research show that the model offers powerful practical guidelines for experiential learning design. Application of the model: (a) improved students’ academic achievement, (b) helped students to engage with both re- and de-contextualisation of knowledge, and (c) improved reflection processes during learning. The study suggests that experiential learning, aligned with the pillars of mARC model, can successfully support learners in their effort to create knowledge through practical experience.
Effects of self-scoring their math problem solutions on primary school students’ monitoring and regulation
Authors: Oudman Sophie , van de Pol Janneke , van Gog Tamara
Published: October 2021

Preparing students to become self-regulated learners has become an important goal of primary education. Therefore, it is important to investigate how we can improve self-monitoring and self-regulation accuracy in primary school students. Focusing on mathematics problems, we investigated whether and how (1) high- and low-performing students differed in their monitoring accuracy (i.e., extent to which students’ monitoring judgments match their actual performance) and regulation accuracy (i.e., extent to which students’ regulation judgments regarding the need for further instruction/practice match their actual need), (2) self-scoring improved students’ monitoring and regulation accuracy, (3) high- and low-performing students differed in their monitoring and regulation accuracy after self-scoring, and (4) students’ monitoring and regulation judgments are related. On two days, students of 9 − 10 years old from 34 classes solved multiplication and division problems and made monitoring and regulation judgments after each problem type. Next, they self-scored their answers and again made monitoring and regulation judgments. On the multiplication problems, high-performing students made more accurate monitoring and regulation judgments before and after self-scoring than low-performing students. On the division problems, high-performing students made more accurate monitoring judgments before self-scoring than low-performing students, but after self-scoring this difference was no longer present. Self-scoring improved students’ monitoring and regulation accuracy, except for low- and high-performing students’ regulation accuracy on division problems. Students’ monitoring and regulation judgments were related. Our findings suggest that self-scoring may be a suitable tool to foster primary school students’ monitoring accuracy and that this translates to some extent into more accurate regulation decisions.
Statistical investigations in primary school – the role of contextual expectations for data analysis
Authors: Frischemeier Daniel , Schnell Susanne
Published: October 2021

As data are ‘numbers with context’ (Cobb & Moore, 1997), contextual knowledge plays a prominent role in dealing with statistics. While insights about a specific context can further the depth of interpreting and evaluating outcomes of data analysis, research shows how it can also hinder relying on data especially if results differ from expectations. In this article, the aim is to investigate how young students informally deal with empirical evidence, which differs from their initial expectations in a specific context. We present a case study with three pairs of students at the age of 9 to 10 who compare groups in survey datasets. The interpretative analysis shows how conjectures of varying degrees of confidence shape the students’ statistical expectations and can play different roles in interpreting results from data analysis.
Building-Back-Better in Post-Disaster Recovery: Lessons Learnt from Cyclone Idai-Induced Floods in Zimbabwe
Authors: Dube Ernest , Wedawatta Gayan , Ginige Kanchana
Published: October 2021

This study evaluated the build-back-better considerations in post-disaster recovery, following the devastation of Chipinge and Chimanimani communities by Cyclone Idai-induced floods in 2019. Conducted in 2020, the study assessed the impact of Cyclone Idai-induced floods on communities in Chipinge and Chimanimani Districts of Zimbabwe; evaluated the build-back-better considerations; and analyzed the lessons learned. Based on a qualitative approach and case study design, the study depended on focus group discussions, interviews, and researcher observations to gather data from 85 participants. The findings indicate that Cyclone Idai-induced floods seriously impacted human lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods of communities that had been living with flood risk and vulnerability. Build-back-better considerations were absent in much of the post-disaster recovery effort to address the cyclone disaster impact. There are important early lessons for both practitioners and community members to learn from the Cyclone Idai event. These lessons still can inform policy and disaster risk reduction practice in the medium and long term. Build-back-better should be a mandatory objective in the recovery from any disaster impact. Continuous training is also recommended to improve the disaster knowledge of stakeholders and increase local ability to cope with future disaster events.
Potential of Empirical Mode Decomposition for Hilbert Demodulation of Acoustic Emission Signals in Gearbox Diagnostics
Authors: Leaman Félix , Vicuña Cristián Molina , Clausen Elisabeth
Published: October 2021

Background

The acoustic emission (AE) analysis has been used increasingly for gearbox diagnostics. Since AE signals are of non-linear, non-stationary and broadband nature, traditional signal processing techniques such as envelope spectrum must be carefully applied to avoid a wrong fault diagnosis. One signal processing technique that has been used to enhance the demodulation process for vibration signals is the empirical mode decomposition (EMD). Until now, the combination of both techniques has not yet been used to improve the fault diagnostics in gearboxes using AE signals.

Purpose

In this research we explore the use of the EMD to improve the demodulation process of AE signals using the Hilbert transform and enhance the representation of a gear fault in the envelope spectrum.

Methods

AE signals were measured on a planetary gearbox (PG) with a ring gear fault. A comparative signal analysis was conducted for the envelope spectra of the original AE signals and the obtained intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) considering three types of filters: highpass filter in the whole AE range, bandpass filter based on IMF spectra analysis and bandpass filter based on the fast kurtogram.

Results

It is demonstrated how the results of the envelope spectrum analysis can be improved by the selection of the relevant frequency band of the IMF most affected by the fault. Moreover, not considering a complementary signal processing technique such as the EMD prior the calculation of the envelope of AE signals can lead to a wrong fault diagnosis in gearboxes.

Conclusion

The EMD has the potential to reveal frequency bands in AE signals that are most affected by a fault and improve the demodulation process of these signals. Further research shall focus on overcome issues of the EMD technique to enhance its application to AE signals.
Preparation of nano-crystalline tungsten powders from gaseous WO2(OH)2
Authors: Ostermann Markus , Dalbauer Valentin , Schubert Wolf-Dieter , Haubner Roland
Published: October 2021

The industrial production of tungsten powder is carried out by the reduction of tungsten oxide powder via hydrogen. In this process, the size of the W particles is limited to particle sizes larger than 100 nm. To get below this limit, alternative processes are needed. In the current work, the possibility of preparing W powder below 100 nm via a vapour phase reduction of volatile WO2(OH)2 by hydrogen was investigated. The process consists of two stages. In the first stag,e WO2(OH)2 is formed by reacting WO3 with water vapour at temperatures of 1000–1100 °C. In the second stage, WO2(OH)2 is reduced by hydrogen at about 1000 °C to form metallic tungsten. The influence of process parameters such as furnace temperature, humidity and gas flow on the WO2(OH)2 evaporation and formation of tungsten powder was investigated. The characterization of the resulting powders was performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). By optimization of the reaction conditions, powder with a metallic tungsten content of about 70 at% besides tungsten oxides was produced with metal particle sizes down to 5 nm. Further optimization should lead to a high tungsten content and a high product yield. Due to the small particle size, applications in catalysis might be possible, although an industrial realization of the process seems unrealistic at moment.
Sustainability and the real value of care in times of a global pandemic: SDG5 and Covid-19
Authors: Ijjas Flora
Published: October 2021

The pandemic Covid-19 has been affecting the global population, causing profound social and economic problems. The aim of this paper is to analyse the health crises from an ecological economic and a gender equality perspective in order to see how the pandemic is affecting Sustainable Development Goal 5 (gender equality) and particularly Target 5.2 which is about eliminating domestic violence and 5.4 which is about the valuation of unpaid care and domestic work. Secondary data, facts and thoughts from scientific papers and other documents are being reviewed to understand our socio-economic systems’ effects on the reproduction of nature and on social reproduction. Results show, that capitalist systems exploit regenerative and reproductive workers of the demonetized economy, such as nature, unpaid caregivers, peasants, and indigenous gatherers. These exploitative systems also have contributed to the rise of the new pandemic Covid-19 by destroying natural habitats. The virus might have some short-term positive effects on the environment, but the backbone of society’s response is unpaid care work, therefore women are being exploited even more. Conclusions are, that patriarchal characteristics, such as normalized systematic domination and oppression of women (and other regenerative and reproductive workers) are on the long run a burden for the SDGs.
The Arab Spring Abroad
Authors: Moss Dana M.
Published: October 2021

The Arab Spring revolutions of 2011 sent shockwaves across the globe, mobilizing diaspora communities to organize forcefully against authoritarian regimes. Despite the important role that diasporas can play in influencing affairs in their countries of origin, little is known about when diaspora actors mobilize, how they intervene, or what makes them effective. This book addresses these questions, drawing on over 230 original interviews, fieldwork, and comparative analysis. Examining Libyan, Syrian, and Yemeni mobilization from the US and Great Britain before and during the revolutions, Dana M. Moss presents a new framework for understanding the transnational dynamics of contention and the social forces that either enable or suppress transnational activism.
Determinants of Government Membership at the Subnational Level: Empirical Evidence from Large Cities in Germany (1999–2016)
Authors: Gross Martin
Published: October 2021

Coalition governments prevail at the European subnational level. Although some studies explain the formation of subnational government coalitions, we know little about the determinants of individual parties' likelihood of joining such coalitions. This article aims to fill this gap in empirical and theoretical ways. It shows that an important institutional constraint matters for political actors' strategies when forming subnational coalitions: the party affiliation of the directly elected head of the executive. Being the party of the head of the executive or being ideologically close to that party significantly increases a party's likelihood of joining a coalition. The empirical evidence results from multinomial choice models using a novel data set on subnational parties' likelihood of joining 92 coalition governments at the local level in Germany between 1999 and 2016. The findings have substantive implications for subnational institutional settings resembling ‘mixed’ political systems (i.e. neither purely presidential nor purely parliamentarian).
ReLaX: the Helmholtz International Beamline for Extreme Fields high-intensity short-pulse laser driver for relativistic laser–matter interaction and strong-field science using the high energy density instrument at the European X-ray free electron laser facility
Authors: Laso Garcia A. , Höppner H. , Pelka A. , Bähtz C. , Brambrink E. , Di Dio Cafiso S. , Dreyer J. , Göde S. , Hassan M. , Kluge T. , Liu J. , Makita M. , Möller D. , Nakatsutsumi M. , Preston T. R. , Priebe G. , Schlenvoigt H.-P. , Schwinkendorf J.-P. , Šmíd M. , Talposi A.-M. , Toncian M. , Zastrau U. , Schramm U. , Cowan T. E. , Toncian T.
Published: October 2021

High-energy and high-intensity lasers are essential for pushing the boundaries of science. Their development has allowed leaps forward in basic research areas, including laser–plasma interaction, high-energy density science, metrology, biology and medical technology. The Helmholtz International Beamline for Extreme Fields user consortium contributes and operates two high-peak-power optical lasers using the high energy density instrument at the European X-ray free electron laser (EuXFEL) facility. These lasers will be used to generate transient extreme states of density and temperature to be probed by the X-ray beam. This paper introduces the ReLaX laser, a short-pulse high-intensity Ti:Sa laser system, and discusses its characteristics as available for user experiments. It will also present the first experimental commissioning results validating its successful integration into the EuXFEL infrastructure and viability as a relativistic-intensity laser driver.
L-arabinose co-ingestion delays glucose absorption derived from sucrose in healthy men and women: a double-blind, randomised crossover trial
Authors: Pasmans Kenneth , Meex Ruth C.R. , Trommelen Jorn , Senden Joan M.G. , Vaughan Elaine E. , van Loon Luc J.C. , Blaak Ellen E.
Published: October 2021

Dietary interventions to delay carbohydrate digestion or absorption can effectively prevent hyperglycaemia in the early postprandial phase. L-arabinose can specifically inhibit sucrase. It remains to be assessed whether co-ingestion of L-arabinose with sucrose delays sucrose digestion, attenuates subsequent glucose absorption and impacts hepatic glucose output. In this double-blind, randomised crossover study, we assessed blood glucose kinetics following ingestion of a 200-ml drink containing 50 g of sucrose with 7·5 g of L-arabinose (L-ARA) or without L-arabinose (CONT) in twelve young, healthy participants (24 ± 1 years; BMI: 22·2 ± 0·5 kg/m2). Plasma glucose kinetics were determined by a dual stable isotope methodology involving ingestion of (U-13C6)-glucose-enriched sucrose, and continuous intravenous infusion of (6,6–2H2)-glucose. Peak glucose concentrations reached 8·18 ± 0·29 mmol/l for CONT 30 min after ingestion. In contrast, the postprandial rise in plasma glucose was attenuated for L-ARA, because peak glucose concentrations reached 6·62 ± 0·18 mmol/l only 60 min after ingestion. The rate of exogenous glucose appearance for L-ARA was 67 and 57 % lower compared with CONT at t = 15 min and 30 min, respectively, whereas it was 214 % higher at t = 150 min, indicating a more stable absorption of exogenous glucose for L-ARA compared with CONT. Total glucose disappearance during the first hour was lower for L-ARA compared with CONT (11 ± 1 v. 17 ± 1 g, P < 0·0001). Endogenous glucose production was not differentially affected at any time point (P = 0·27). Co-ingestion of L-arabinose with sucrose delays sucrose digestion, resulting in a slower absorption of sucrose-derived glucose without causing adverse effects in young, healthy adults.
Feeding difficulties in children fed a cows’ milk elimination diet
Authors: Rodrigues Vanessa Cristina de Castro , Speridião Patrícia da Graça Leite , Sanudo Adriana , Morais Mauro Batista
Published: October 2021

A cross-sectional study compared feeding difficulties in children aged 2–5 years fed a cows’ milk elimination diet due to food allergy with a control group on an unrestricted diet. All data were obtained online. Specific questionnaires evaluated three types of feeding difficulties: avoidant eating, picky eating and feeding problems. The median scores of feeding difficulties in the elimination diet (n 146) and control (n 109) groups were, respectively: picky eating (31 v. 27; P = 0·148), avoidant eating (3 v. 3; P = 0·508) and feeding problems (38 v. 34, P = 0·032). Picky eating was more frequent in the elimination diet (35·4 %) than in the controls (23·3 %; P = 0·042), but no difference was observed for avoidant eating (23·9 % v. 20·4 %, P = 0·508) and feeding problems (32·1 % v. 28·4 %, P = 0·541). Picky eating was associated with lower values of weight-for-age z-scores in both groups. Multivariate analyses identified associations of the three feeding difficulties with previous food refusal and/or inappetence in the elimination diet group. Current constipation and anticipatory gagging were associated with feeding difficulties in both groups. In conclusion, children on an elimination diet presented higher frequency of picky eating and higher scores of feeding problems. Picky eating was associated with lower values of weight-for-age z-scores. Food refusal and/or inappetence as clinical manifestations of food allergy were associated with feeding difficulties at the moment of the survey. Current constipation and anticipatory gagging were associated with picky eating, avoidant eating and feeding problems.
Do we eat what we buy? Relative validity of grocery purchase data as an indicator of food consumption in the LoCard study
Authors: Vepsäläinen Henna , Nevalainen Jaakko , Kinnunen Satu , Itkonen Suvi Tuulikki , Meinilä Jelena , Männistö Satu , Uusitalo Liisa , Fogelholm Mikael , Erkkola Maijaliisa
Published: October 2021

The validity of grocery purchase data as an indicator of food consumption is uncertain. This paper investigated (1) the associations between food consumption and grocery purchases using automatically accumulated purchase data and (2) whether the strength of the associations differed in certain sub-populations. The participants filled in a FFQ, and a major Finnish retailer issued us with their loyalty-card holders’ grocery purchase data covering the 1- and 12-month periods preceding the FFQ. We used gamma statistics to study the association between thirds/quarters of FFQ and grocery purchase data (frequency/amount) separately for eighteen food groups among the 11 983 participants. Stratified analyses were conducted for subgroups based on sex, family structure, educational level, household income and self-estimated share of purchases from the retailer. We also examined the proportion of participants classified into the same, adjacent, subsequent and opposite categories using the FFQ and purchase data. The gammas ranged from 0·12 (cooked vegetables) to 0·75 (margarines). Single households had stronger gammas than two-adult families, and participants with > 60 % of purchases from the retailer had stronger gammas. For most food groups, the proportion of participants classified into the same or adjacent category was > 70 %. Most discrepancies were observed for fresh/cooked vegetables, berries and vegetable oils. Even though the two methods did not categorise all food groups similarly, we conclude that grocery purchase data are able to describe food consumption in an adult population, and future studies should consider purchase data as a resource-saving and moderately valid measure in large samples.
The impact of food addiction behaviours on the treatment of overweight students
Authors: de Almeida Viviane Bellucci Pires , Filgueiras Andrea Rocha , Nogueira Paulo Cesar Koch , Sesso Ricardo Cintra , Sawaya Ana Lydia , Domene Semíramis Martins Álvares
Published: October 2021

The present study evaluated the association of food addiction (FA), the change of the BMI/agez-score and the consumption of ultra-processed foods in overweight students undergoing a 16-month, multicomponent intervention in the school environment. FA was investigated using the Yale Food Addiction Scale for Children, and the dietary assessment was estimated using the semi-quantitative FFQ in overweight 9–11-year-old students (BMI/agez-score ≥ 1) of both sexes at their baseline and after the intervention (n120). Among the schoolchildren, 33·4 % had FA in at least one of the two assessments. The analysis of mixed-effects models to assess the effect of the intervention and the change of the BMI/agez-score between evaluations showed that the occurrence of FA influenced the maintenance of weight (time#FA,β= 0·30, 95 % CI 0·05, 0·54,P= 0·016). Weight loss was observed only in individuals who did not present FA (BMI/agez-score = −0·3). When evaluating the effect of the intervention and the dietary variables, we verified a reduction in the consumption of sugary milk-based drinks −71·13 kJ (–17 kcal),P= 0·04 only in non-FA students at the end of the study. FA has been identified as an underlying factor with therapeutic relevance, and an enhanced understanding of FA can open new paths for the prevention and management of obesity.
Formation of ultrapotassic magma via crustal contamination and hybridization of mafic magma: an example from the Stomanovo monzonite, Central Rhodope Massif, Bulgaria
Authors: Marchev Peter , Raicheva Raya , Georgiev Stoyan , Savov Ivan P. , Jelev Danko
Published: October 2021

Generally all orogenic ultrapotassic rocks are formed after melting of metasomatized sub-continental lithospheric mantle via subducted crustal mica-bearing lithologies. Here we present another possible model, based on the study of the small Stomanovo ultrapotassic monzonite porphyry intrusion in the Central Rhodope Massif, Bulgaria. The monzonite dated at 30.50 ± 0.46 Ma is intruded into the voluminous Oligocene (31.63 ± 0.40 Ma) Bratsigovo–Dospat ignimbrite. The monzonite hosts both normally and reversely zoned clinopyroxene phenocrysts. The normally zoned clinopyroxene is characterized by gradually diminishing core-to-rim Mg no. (89–74), whereas the reversely zoned clinopyroxene has green Fe-rich cores (Mg no. 71–55) mantled by normally zoned clinopyroxene (Mg no. 87–74). Neither the core of the normally zoned clinopyroxene nor the Fe-rich green cores are in equilibrium with the host monzonite. This ultrapotassic monzonite shows more radiogenic Sr isotopes ((87Sr/86Sr)i= 0.71066) and ϵNd(t) = −7.8 to −8.0 that are distinct from the host ignimbrites with (87Sr/86Sr)i= 0.70917–0.70927 and ϵNd(t) = −4.6 to −6.5. The Sr–Nd isotopic data and the presence of copious zircon xenocrysts from the underlying metamorphic basement suggest extensive crustal assimilation. Our observations indicate that the Stomanovo ultrapotassic monzonite formed after extensive lower or middle crustal fractional crystallization from an evolved magma producing cumulates. The process was followed by hybridization with primitive mantle-derived magma and subsequent continuous crustal contamination. We suggest that instead of inheriting their high K2O and large-ion lithophile element enrichments from slab-derived/metasomatic fluids, the Stomanovo ultrapotassic monzonite may owe some of its unusually high alkalinity to the assimilation of potassium-rich phases from the Rhodope Massif basement rocks.
First report of post-cyclic transmission in trematodes: Derogenes lacustris (Digenea: Hemiuroidea) in Patagonian freshwater fishes
Authors: Tsuchida Karin , Rauque Carlos , Viozzi Gustavo , Flores Verónica , Urabe Misako
Published: October 2021

The transmission of adult parasites from prey to predatory hosts has been demonstrated for some acanthocephalan and one cestode species. Derogenes lacustris (Digenea: Hemiuroidea: Derogenidae) is a generalist parasite that infects, as an adult, the stomach of native and introduced freshwater fishes in Andean Patagonia. In the present work, the post-cyclic transmission of D. lacustris from native Galaxias maculatus (Galaxiidae) to introduced Oncorhynchus mykiss (Salmonidae) was proved experimentally. The observed transmission rate for this experimental infection was 19%. The body length of D. lacustris on day 14 post-infection was significantly greater than before transmission. The number of eggs also increased significantly after transmission, showing that D. lacustris can survive, grow and continue with egg production for at least 2 weeks in predatory salmonids. This study provides the first experimental evidence of post-cyclic transmission of trematodes and the results suggest that post-cyclic parasitism enables this species to broaden its range of hosts and distribution ranges in Argentinean Patagonia.
Assessing the genetic diversity of the metacercariae of Posthodiplostomum minimum (Trematoda: Diplostomidae) in Middle American freshwater fishes: one species or more?
Authors: Pérez-Ponce de León Gerardo , Sereno-Uribe Ana L. , Pinacho-Pinacho Carlos D. , García-Varela Martín
Published: October 2021

Trematode taxonomy is mainly based on the morphological traits of adults. The identification of metacercariae is challenging because such traits are not developed in larval forms, and they even may show some level of morphological variability. Studies testing the potential correspondence between morphological differences and genetic variation of parasites are still lacking. The metacercariae of Posthodiplostomum minimum are probably the diplostomids more widely distributed in North and Middle American freshwater fish, and their intraspecific morphological variability has been attributed to the effect exerted by the host. Here, we tested the hypothesis whether they represent a single species, or a species complex by assessing the genetic divergence and phylogenetic relationships of metacercariae sampled from several host species in a wide geographical range across Middle America. The internal transcribed spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2), and the mitochondrial COI gene were sequenced for 124 and 55 metacercariae, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis inferred from ITS sequences uncovered six well-supported monophyletic lineages. The six lineages show no correspondence to any Posthodiplostomum species for which sequences are available thus far in GenBank. Lineages exhibit some degree of host specificity; Lineages I, II, IV and V are primarily parasites of cyprinodontiforms of the families Poeciliidae, Goodeidae, Profundulidae and Fundulidae. In poeciliids there are at least four candidate species of Posthodiplostomum, some of them occurring in sympatry; instead, Lineages II and VI are exclusively parasites of cichlids. This study contributes to our understanding of the diversity of larval forms of diplostomids and provides an opportunity to further study their life cycles.
Finding Antarctica’s Pole of Inaccessibility
Authors: Rees Gareth , Gerrish Laura , Fox Adrian , Barnes Richard
Published: October 2021

Antarctica’s Pole of Inaccessibility (Southern Pole of Inaccessibility (SPI)) is the point on the Antarctic continent farthest from its edge. Existing literature exhibits disagreement over its location. Using two revisions of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research’s Antarctic Digital Database, we calculate modern-day positions for the SPI around 10 years apart, based on the position of the “outer” Antarctic coastline, i.e. its boundary with the ocean. These show that the position of the SPI in the year 2010 was around 83° 54’ S, 64° 53’ E, shifting on the order of 1 km per year as a result of changes of a similar magnitude in the Amery, Ronne-Filchner and Ross Ice Shelves. Excepting a position of the SPI calculated by British Antarctic Survey in 2005, to which it is very close, our newly calculated position differs by 150–900 km from others reported in the literature. We also consider the “inner” SPI, defined by the coastline with floating ice removed. The position of this SPI in 2010 is estimated as 83°37’ S, 53° 43’ E, differing significantly from other reported positions. Earlier cartographic data are probably not sufficiently accurate to allow its rate of change to be calculated meaningfully.
Effect of operating parameters of a magnetically controlled spiral capsule robot on its performance
Authors: Liang Liang , Tang Puhua , Liu Yu , Xu Yan
Published: October 2021

A magnetically controlled spiral capsule robot is designed. When the robot is running in a pipe filled with mucus, computational fluid dynamics is used to analyze the fluid field (velocity, streamlines, and vorticity) in the pipe, and particle image velocimetry is used to measure the above fluid field surrounding the robot. The measured fluid field is basically similar to the numerical result. The relationship between the operating parameters of the robot and the performance of the robot is further calculated and analyzed. The results show that the resistance to the robot in the forward direction, average turbulent intensity of the fluid surrounding the robot, and maximum fluid pressure to the pipe wall are proportional to the robotic translational speed. The resisting moment of the robot in the forward direction, average turbulent intensity of the fluid surrounding the robot, and maximum fluid pressure to the pipe wall are proportional to the robotic rotational speed.
Association of subcortical gray-matter volumes with life-course-persistent antisocial behavior in a population-representative longitudinal birth cohort
Authors: Carlisi Christina O. , Moffitt Terrie E. , Knodt Annchen R. , Harrington HonaLee , Langevin Stephanie , Ireland David , Melzer Tracy R. , Poulton Richie , Ramrakha Sandhya , Caspi Avshalom , Hariri Ahmad R. , Viding Essi
Published: October 2021

Neuropsychological evidence supports the developmental taxonomy theory of antisocial behavior, suggesting that abnormal brain development distinguishes life-course-persistent from adolescence-limited antisocial behavior. Recent neuroimaging work confirmed that prospectively-measured life-course-persistent antisocial behavior is associated with differences in cortical brain structure. Whether this extends to subcortical brain structures remains uninvestigated. This study compared subcortical gray-matter volumes between 672 members of the Dunedin Study previously defined as exhibiting life-course-persistent, adolescence-limited or low-level antisocial behavior based on repeated assessments at ages 7–26 years. Gray-matter volumes of 10 subcortical structures were compared across groups. The life-course-persistent group had lower volumes of amygdala, brain stem, cerebellum, hippocampus, pallidum, thalamus, and ventral diencephalon compared to the low-antisocial group. Differences between life-course-persistent and adolescence-limited individuals were comparable in effect size to differences between life-course-persistent and low-antisocial individuals, but were not statistically significant due to less statistical power. Gray-matter volumes in adolescence-limited individuals were near the norm in this population-representative cohort and similar to volumes in low-antisocial individuals. Although this study could not establish causal links between brain volume and antisocial behavior, it constitutes new biological evidence that all people with antisocial behavior are not the same, supporting a need for greater developmental and diagnostic precision in clinical, forensic, and policy-based interventions.
SARS-CoV-2 infection induced thyroid storm and heart failure in an adolescent girl
Authors: Das Bibhuti B. , Shakti Divya , Akam-Venkata Jyothsna , Obi Obiageli , Weiland Michael D. , Moskowitz William
Published: October 2021

We report a case of thyroid storm precipitated by SARS-CoV-2 infection in an adolescent girl with a history of Graves disease and dilated cardiomyopathy. This case highlights that SARS-CoV-2 infection can potentially trigger a thyrotoxicosis crisis and acute decompensated heart failure in a patient with underlying thyroid disease and myocardial dysfunction even in the absence of multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children. We systematically reviewed the thyrotoxicosis cases with SARS-CoV-2 infection and described its impact on pre-existing dilated cardiomyopathy.
Adaptations of paediatric cardiology practice during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fremed Michael A. , Niaz Talha , Hope Kyle D. , Altman Carolyn A. , Levy Victor Y. , Glickstein Julie S. , Johnson Jonathan N.
Published: October 2021

During the initial surge of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring and summer of 2020, paediatric heart centres were forced to rapidly alter the way patient care was provided to minimise interruption to patient care as well as exposure to the virus. In this survey-based descriptive study, we characterise changes that occurred within paediatric cardiology practices across the United States and described provider experience and attitudes towards these changes during the pandemic. Common changes that were implemented included decreased numbers of procedures, limiting visitors and shifting towards telemedicine encounters. The information obtained from this survey may be useful in guiding and standardising responses to future public health crises.
Vortioxetine 20 mg/day in patients with major depressive disorder: updated analysis of efficacy, safety, and optimal timing of dose adjustment
Authors: Christensen Michael Cronquist , McIntyre Roger S. , Florea Ioana , Loft Henrik , Fagiolini Andrea
Published: October 2021

Background

Analysis of efficacy and tolerability of vortioxetine 20 mg/day, and optimal timing of dose adjustment, in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

Pooled analysis of six randomized, fixed-dose studies of vortioxetine 5 to 20 mg/day. Mean change from baseline in Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score was analyzed by vortioxetine dose using a mixed model for repeated measures. Tolerability was assessed over the 8-week treatment period and from day 8 (ie, following dose increase to 20 mg/day). Data from three randomized, flexible-dose studies were examined for frequency and timing of dose adjustment.

Results

A clear dose–response relationship for vortioxetine was confirmed in terms of improvement in MADRS total score. Significant differences vs placebo were seen for vortioxetine 20 mg/day from week 2 onwards; vortioxetine 10 mg did not separate from placebo until week 4. At week 8, mean change in MADRS total score from baseline was significantly greater for vortioxetine 20 mg/day vs 10 mg/day (difference, −1.03 points; P < .05). Incidence of adverse events was not increased in patients who received vortioxetine 20 mg/day vs 10 mg/day. In flexible-dose studies, dosage was increased to 20 mg/day after 1 week in 48.0% of patients; final dosage was 20 mg/day in 64.3% of patients.

Conclusions

Vortioxetine 20 mg is significantly more effective than vortioxetine 10 mg in patients with MDD, with a similar tolerability profile. In flexible-dose studies, almost half of all patients received 20 mg/day after 1 week and two-thirds received 20 mg/day as their final dosage.
Telephone-delivered Interpersonal Psychotherapy: a systematic review
Authors: Miniati Mario , Marzetti Francesca , Palagini Laura , Conversano Ciro , Buccianelli Beatrice , Marazziti Donatella , Gemignani Angelo
Published: October 2021

Background

The aim of this paper is to review evidence on Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) administered via telephone (IPT-T).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of studies published between January 1, 1990 and June 30, 2020, assessing the efficacy of IPT administered by phone, using PubMed.

Results

Originally, we found 60 papers; the final selection led to 13 papers. Six studies were performed using a randomized clinical trial methodology (6/13, 46.2%), three were prospective open-label not randomized studies (3/13, 15.7%), three were pilot studies (3/13, 23.1%), and one was a feasibility/acceptance study (1/13, 7.7%). The number of subjects included in the studies ranged between 14 and 442 (mean: 140.0 ± 124.9), for a total of 1850 patients. The mean age of the enrolled subjects was 47.8 ± 9.3 years (range: 27.4-70.4). Thirty-four different instruments were utilized. Qualitative synthesis was conducted only on randomized controlled trials (RCTs), namely on six studies. RCTs were almost all of good quality (mean score/standard deviation of the RCT-Psychotherapy Quality Rating Scale omnibus rating: 5.6 ± 1.2 points; range: 3-7).

Conclusions

IPT-T showed response rates similar to IPT administered in the usual way. Results are limited by small samples sizes, selection bias of the less severe depressed patients, and the heterogeneity of rating scales.