bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flammability and thermal stability of thermoplastic-based composites filled with natural carbon
Authors: Al-Majali Yahya T , Trembly Jason P
Published: March 2022

This investigation characterized flammability and thermal stability for a novel sustainable composite engineered for use in building applications. Flammability and thermal stability of coal plastic composites composed of coal (40–60 wt.%) and high-density polyethylene were compared to commercial wood–plastic composites. Pyrolysis thermogravimetric analysis results indicated that coal plastic composites possessed a single-step decomposition and higher char residue, while wood–plastic composites had two-step decomposition, with the first peak occurring at much lower temperatures. Thermogravimetric analyses in air suggest coal plastic composites, compared to wood–plastic composites and neat high-density polyethylene, were more thermally stable. Flash ignition temperatures for coal plastic composites were higher than high-density polyethylene and wood–plastic composites, while self-ignition temperatures were in the same range as wood–plastic composites. Rate of burning data indicated coal plastic composites were slower burning than wood–plastic composites, with increasing coal content slowing burning rate by 19.9%–27.6%. Cone calorimeter testing showed 27% and 59% reduction in total heat release and total smoke release as coal content increased while coal plastic composite with 60 wt.% coal possessed lower overall flammability in comparison with predominant commercially available wood–plastic composite products. Coal improved composite overall thermal stability and flammability by acting as char former and foaming agent.
Path tracking of autonomous vehicle with consideration of vehicle stability in sideslip angle phase plane
Authors: Lin Fen , Hao Mingbiao , Sun Minghong , Chen Yuke , Wu Jian , Qian Chengliang
Published: March 2022

In current research of autonomous vehicle path tracking, most contributions focus on tracking accuracy during complex driving condition. However, the vehicle might fall into unstable dangerous condition when the road curvature is big or with high speed. A path tracking control framework is proposed in this paper, which considers path tracking accuracy and vehicle stability. In general, the control framework consists of three main components: vehicle stability judging controller, path tracking controller, and torque distributor. Firstly, the stability of the current vehicle can be evaluated by the stability judgment controller according to the phase plane of the sideslip angle. Then, the proportion of vehicle stability in the control objective is adjusted according to the current vehicle stability. To improve the path tracking accuracy, the path tracking is composed of a combined controller using MPC algorithm, which controls the front wheel angle and direct yaw moment at the same time. After that, the torque distributor is developed to distribute the desired yaw moment into four executive wheels, which synthesizes the results of power performance distribution and stability distribution. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control framework is verified by the Matlab-CarSim co-simulation experiment and the hardware-in-the-loop experiment based on LabVIEW-RT. The results show that the proposed controller has better tracking accuracy and stability than the general MPC controller.
Economic growth, environmental regulations, energy use, and ecological footprint linkage in the Next-11 countries: Implications for environmental sustainability
Authors: Eregha Perekunah B. , Nathaniel Solomon P. , Vo Xuan Vinh
Published: March 2022

The activities of humans on Earth have increased the global concern for climate change, ecological distortions, and environmental deterioration. These concerns have warranted regulations that relate to environmental preservation and sustainability. However, the efficiency of such regulations in emerging economies is yet to be ascertained as conclusions from various findings still remain murky. We explore how environmental regulations affects ecological footprint (EFP) using the cross-sectionally augmented autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) model, augmented mean group (AMG), and the common correlated effects mean group estimators (CCEMG) in the eleven fastest emerging economies (N11). The findings reveal that environmental regulations are not efficient in abating environmental deterioration. Economic growth, trade, and energy consumption invigorate the EFP. The country-specific findings confirm that energy consumption and economic growth promote environmental degradation in all the N11 countries, and the outcome was consistent across all estimators. Finally, policy directions are discussed along with the limitations of the study.
Charting cognition: Mapping public understanding of COVID-19
Authors: Strydhorst Natasha A. , Landrum Asheley R.
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic of the last 2 years (and counting) disrupted commerce, travel, workplaces, habits, and—of course—health, the world over. This study aimed to capture snapshots of the perceptions and misperceptions of COVID-19 among 27 participants from three US municipalities. These perspectives are analyzed through thematic analyses and concept maps. Such snapshots, particularly as viewed through the lens of narrative sense-making theory, capture a sample of cognitions at this unique moment in history: a little over 1 year into the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings suggest that the (mis)perceptions captured are predominantly conveyed via narratives of participants’ personal experiences, and that the themes of attitudes toward precautionary measures, uncertainty, and the muddied science communication environment are prevalent. These themes suggest several salient targets for future research and current science communication, such as a focus on basic explainers, vaccinations’ safety and effectiveness and the necessity of uncertainty in the practice of science.
The Volatility Lowering Effects of Capital Controls
Authors: Zehri Chokri
Published: March 2022

The evidence that capital controls adversely affect cross-border trade is debatable. This study shows that capital controls may support international trade by mitigating the negative effect of macroeconomic volatility. We use quarterly data from a sample of 25 emerging countries over the period 2011–2019. Using long- and short-standing capital control dynamic panel models, and diversifying robust estimation techniques, our results show that capital controls alleviate the adverse effects of the exchange rate, interest rate differential, and inflation volatilities. The long-lasting capital controls (walls) are more effective than short-lasting capital controls (gates). Besides, the effects of these controls are asymmetric regarding the financial development level and category of flows. The study highlights the beneficial role of macroprudential policy in supporting capital control actions. The results of this study have two main policy implications, the effectiveness of “walls” controls and the importance of macroeconomic policy coordination.
Exchange Rate and Stock Markets During Trade Conflicts in the USA, China, and India
Authors: Krishnan Deepika , Dagar Vishal
Published: March 2022

During trade tussles, most of the stock exchanges are impacted, both directly and indirectly, thereby influencing the exchange rates of the countries. This article gives a comprehensive insight into the effects of exchange rate on the USA, China, and Indian stock market, that is, the Dow Jones industrial average index (DJI), Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) composite index, and Nifty50 index during trade conflicts. Trade conflicts here talk about the recent trade war between the USA and China, which was invariably fallen in line with the outbreak of COVID-19. Sample of this study comprises the daily closing price from different indices and exchange rate values US dollar, yuan, and rupee. This article uses ordinary least square (OLS) model and generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) model to analyze the volatility and influence of exchange rate over the stock market. Results from OLS model indicated that the fluctuations in exchange rate have minimum impact on the daily closing price of stock indices, that is, DJI, SSE, and Nifty50 in the USA, China, and India, respectively, however, exchange rate impacts volume of shares traded in all three stock exchanges. The GARCH model implies that the conditional variance is less volatile for Nifty volume, but highly volatile for SSE and DJI stock volumes traded. The findings of the study provide insights to the domestic and foreign investors regarding their investment in the stock market during trade conflicts and mostly during COVID-19 situation.
How Caregivers Support Children’s Emotion Regulation: Construct Validation of the Parental Assistance With Child Emotion Regulation (PACER) Questionnaire
Authors: Mancini Vincent O. , Heritage Brody J. , Preece David , Cohodes Emily M. , Gross James J. , Gee Dylan G. , Finlay-Jones Amy
Published: March 2022

Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting the development of their children’s emotion regulation. This study validated the Parental Assistance with Child Emotion Regulation (PACER) Questionnaire in a sample of 491 caregivers ( M = 32.89 years) of young children ≤ 5 years. Exploratory structural equation modeling provided evidence of the instrument’s ability to assess parental support for 10 distinct emotion regulation strategies that match the intended design of the instrument. Latent profile analysis revealed three distinct caregiver profiles characterized by above-average support for strategies that previously have been shown to be predictive of adaptive outcomes, maladaptive outcomes, or mixed-outcomes, respectively. Results add to existing literature that suggests the PACER is a valid and reliable assessment of caregiver-implemented support of emotion regulation strategies for children ≤ 5 years old. Evidence of distinct caregiver profiles highlights opportunities for prevention and intervention efforts to bolster extrinsic support for adaptive emotion regulation strategies. This instrument may be well-suited to capturing changes throughout the early developmental period, in addition to monitoring caregiver-facing interventions promoting optimal emotion regulation in children.
Andexanet Alfa Versus Prothrombin Complex Concentrates/Blood Products as Apixaban/Rivaroxaban Reversal Agents: A Survey Among Pediatric Hematologists
Authors: Rodriguez Vilmarie , Stanek Joseph , Kerlin Bryce A. , Dunn Amy L.
Published: March 2022

Direct oral factor Xa inhibitors (DXIs) are approved for use in adult patients with non-valvular heart disease for stroke prevention, and the treatment/prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Recent pediatric clinical trials have demonstrated safety and efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in the treatment of VTE. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the use of andexanet alfa and prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) for anticoagulation reversal of DXIs in the pediatric population. To better understand current DXI reversal strategies in this age group, a 10-question survey was conducted among pediatric hematology members of the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society. Seventeen percent completed the survey (27 of 163 pediatric hematology members) with 74% ( n = 20) reporting their use of DXIs for the treatment and prevention of VTE. Forty-four percent ( n = 12) would choose andexanet alfa as first-line treatment for life-threatening bleeding while 52% ( n = 14) would use PCC first with one individual choosing recombinant factor VII for DXI reversal. Clinical studies of andexanet alfa and PCC for the management of DXI-associated life-threatening bleeding require further investigation in the pediatric population.
Observer-based fixed-time control for nonlinear systems with enhanced nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode
Authors: Pan Huihui , Zhang Guangming
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we develop a novel observer-based fixed-time control for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems. First, a fast terminal sliding mode disturbance observer is constructed, which can guarantee accurate estimation of the lumped disturbance in fixed time. Next, using a new fixed-time stable system, a novel enhanced nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode manifold with bounded convergence time independently of the initial states is presented to enhance system convergence rate. Subsequently, by using the presented fast terminal sliding mode disturbance observer and enhanced nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode manifold , the observer-based fixed-time control scheme is developed, which can achieve system stabilization within fixed time and offer global fast convergence property. The fixed-time convergence of the system states under the proposed control approach is analyzed by utilizing the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, corresponding simulation results are provided to confirm the feasibility and superiority of the new control strategy.
Assessment of Community’s Perception Toward Single-Use Plastic Shopping Bags and Use of Alternative Bags in Jimma Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Misgana Bikila , Tucho Gudina Terefe
Published: March 2022

Background:

The use of plastic shopping bags increases and poses tremendous pressure on the local environment. However, little is known about its utilization among different population categories and their perception of its utilization and willingness to use other sustainable alternatives. This study aimed to assess the community’s perception toward the use of plastic shopping bags and its options in Jimma town, Ethiopia

Methods:

A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted on 351 customers and retailers selected from the town’s main marketing areas. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire in a face-to-face interview and analyzed using SPSS v.21.

Results:

The results show that all the respondents use plastic shopping bags for different shopping services. The majority (147 (41.9%)) of the respondents said that they use 5 to 10 shopping bags, and 66 (18.8%) use more than 10 shopping bags per week. Participants responded with different reasons for the frequent use of plastic bags for shopping. Accordingly, 116 (33.0%) responded that plastic bags are cheap, 92 (26.2%) use them due to lack of alternatives, and 89 (25.4%) responded that plastic bags are light and convenient to use. However, 326 (93%) of the respondents support efforts to reduce single-use plastic bags, 284 (80.9%) support a ban on single-use plastic bags, and 319 (90%) were willing to pay for alternative shopping bags.

Conclusion:

Communities are aware of the environmental problems associated with the intensive use of plastic shopping bags, their wastes, and the need for alternative options. However, it will continue to pose significant environmental challenges unless low-cost and environment-friendly alternative options are available.
Usefulness of the Transradial 8Fr Sheathless Guiding Catheter Approach in Directional Coronary Atherectomy
Authors: Niizeki Takeshi , Iwayama Tadateru , Kumagai Yu , Tohara Satoru , Tsuchikane Etsuo
Published: March 2022

Background:

Directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) revived in Japan since 2014. DCA is a special device to remove the atherosclerotic plaque of coronary artery in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, DCA procedure is recommended to perform by 8Fr system, which is one of the limitations of DCA.

Case Series:

Since transradial approach is the main access route for PCI, we considered how to perform DCA by TRA. The external diameter of 8Fr guiding catheter (GC) and 6Fr sheath are 2.70 and 2.67 mm. Then, if 6Fr sheath can be inserted without any resistance, 8Fr GC is considered to be insertable. We performed 5 cases of DCA by the transradial 8Fr sheathless GC approach, all cases were successful without discomfort associated with insertion and removal of the 8Fr GC.

Conclusion:

DCA by the transradial 8Fr sheathless GC approach might be one of options to avoid bleeding complication and serve more comfortable treatment for the patients.
Outcomes of a home telemonitoring program for SARS-CoV-2 viral infection at a large academic medical center
Authors: Bryant Andrew D , Robinson Tommy J , Gutierrez-Perez Jeydith T , Manning Bradley L , Glenn Kevin , Imborek Katherine L , Kuperman Ethan F
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Telemedicine serves as a viable option during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide in-home care, maintain home isolation precautions, reduce unnecessary healthcare exposures, and de-burden hospitals.

Methods

We created a novel telemedicine program to closely monitor patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) at home. Adult patients with COVID-19 were enrolled in the program at the time of documented infection. Patients were followed by a team of providers via telephone or video visits at frequent intervals until resolution of their acute illness. Additionally, patients were stratified into high-risk and low-risk categories based on demographics and underlying comorbidities. The primary outcome was hospitalization after enrollment in the home monitoring program, including 30 days after discharge from the program.

Results

Over a 3.5-month period, 1128 patients met criteria for enrollment in the home monitoring program. 30.7% were risk stratified as high risk for poor outcomes based on their comorbidities and age. Of the 1128 patients, 6.2% required hospitalization and 1.2% required ICU admission during the outcome period. Hospitalization was more frequent in patients identified as high risk (14.2% vs 2.7%, P < 0.001).

Discussion

Enrollment in a home monitoring program appears to be an effective and sustainable modality for the ambulatory management of COVID-19.
The effectiveness of second-language listening strategy instruction: A meta-analysis
Authors: Dalman Mohammadreza , Plonsky Luke
Published: March 2022

Research on the effects of second language (L2) listening strategy instruction (SI) has gained momentum in recent years (e.g. Vandergrift & Tafaghodtari, 2010). However, the reported results have been inconclusive and varied across studies. Synthesizing the results of quantitative research in this domain, the present meta-analysis sought to determine the overall effectiveness of L2 listening SI as well as to examine the extent to which the effectiveness of instruction is likely to vary as a function of a set of potential moderators (i.e. learning contexts, treatment types, methodological variables, and outcome measures). A comprehensive search identified 45 primary studies, contributing data from 51 independent samples on the effects of SI on L2 listening comprehension. The aggregated findings indicate a medium effect of listening SI ( d = 0.69). These effects were also found to vary as a function of several moderator variables. Based on the obtained findings, L2 teachers are recommended to incorporate listening SI into L2 curricula. Pedagogical suggestions and directions for future research are provided in our discussion.
Caregivers’ perspectives on the social and physical environmental factors associated with the play of their children with palliative care needs: A Q methodology study
Authors: Jasem Zainab A , Randall Duncan C , Darlington Anne-Sophie , Lambrick Danielle
Published: March 2022

Children living with palliative care needs are less engaged in play, despite its importance in their lives. The environment may have a crucial role in supporting these children’s play. Understanding the importance and impact of environmental factors on children’s play is essential to being able to support their participation in play. Data were collected from caregivers (mostly parents) of children living with life-threatening/limiting conditions, who were between 5 and 11 years old. Thirty-nine participants were recruited from two children hospitals and two hospices in Kuwait and in the United Kingdom. The participants’ perspectives were explored using Q methodology. By-person factor analysis was used to explore the ranking of each statement. Content analysis was used to analyse the participants’ verbal comments. The most important environmental factors were the need for others to share play and get assistance to facilitate play. However, this is not always possible as these conditions, the life-threatening/limiting conditions, may be socially isolating. Children also experience limitations in accessing play resources that match their abilities and meet their play needs. Being aware and responsive to children’s play needs is essential for building appropriately supportive play environments for children living with life-threatening/life-limiting conditions.
The indirect health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents: A review
Authors: Oostrom Tina GA , Cullen Patricia , Peters Sanne AE
Published: March 2022

It is pertinent to examine potentially detrimental impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on young people. We conducted a review to assess the health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and adolescents. Databases of MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched in June 2020, using keywords for ‘children’, ‘adolescents’ and ‘COVID-19’. English papers discussing young people in context to the COVID-19 pandemic were included. Quality of selected studies was evaluated and scored. Of the 2013 identified articles, 22 met the inclusion criteria, including 11 cohort studies, ten cross-sectional studies and one report. Five main issues emerged: Increased mental health conditions, declines in presentations to paediatric emergency departments, declines in vaccination rates, changes in lifestyle behaviour (mainly decreased physical activity for specific groups of children), and changes in paediatric domestic violence and online child sexual abuse. There are early indications that the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the health of young people, and this is amplified for those with existing health conditions and vulnerabilities. Despite this, there is limited insight into the protective factors for young people’s health and wellbeing, as well as how the impacts of the pandemic can be mitigated in both the short and long term.
The role of minority discrimination and political participation in shaping majority perceptions of discrimination: Two cross-national studies
Authors: Kende Judit , Reiter Julia , Coşkan Canan , Doosje Bertjan , Green Eva G. T.
Published: March 2022

We develop a minority influence approach to multilevel intergroup research and examine whether country-level minority norms shape majority members’ perceptions of discrimination. Defining minority norms via actual minority discrimination and political participation, we hypothesized that in national contexts with greater minority experiences of discrimination and greater minority political participation, majority perceptions of discrimination should be higher. We implemented two cross-national multilevel studies drawing on the European Social Survey and Eurobarometer data with 19,392 participants in 22 countries in Study 1, and with 17,651 participants in 19 countries in Study 2. Higher aggregate levels of minority discrimination were not related to greater acknowledgment of discrimination among majority members. However, higher aggregate minority political participation did relate to higher perceptions of discrimination in Studies 1 and 2. We conclude that country-level minority norms are consequential for majority attitudes, but these norms need to be actively communicated through political participation.
Learning lessons from the collaborative design of guidance for new build schools
Authors: Daniels Harry , Thompson Ian , Tse Hau Ming , Porter Jill
Published: March 2022

This article focusses on the lessons learnt from the collaborative design of guidance for new build schools in England about the processes of school design, construction and occupation. The study involved headteachers, school building commissioners, teachers and wider school communities thinking about the pedagogic implications of the production of new school buildings. Professionals who had been involved with the development of new school buildings, and those currently involved, engaged in workshops to discuss their experiences of the process and designed guidance for those who would be involved in the future. This collaborative process pointed to possibilities but also significant potential risks involved in innovative school design. Theoretically, an activity theory framework was adopted to explore patterns of interaction and contradictions in the collaborative processes of the design, construction and occupation of new school builds and how these should be captured in a guidance document. We problematise the concept of innovation in the design of new build schools and the related risks. We suggest that collaborative school design calls for a new conception of collective action.
Sexual Victimization Outcomes and Adjustment Among Bisexual Women: A Review of the Quantitative Literature
Authors: Salim Selime R. , McConnell A. Alex , Messman Terri
Published: March 2022

Bisexual women experience worse mental health outcomes than lesbian and heterosexual women, which may be explained by greater rates of sexual violence among bisexual women. The current comprehensive literature review aimed to synthesize research on mental health and substance use outcomes related to lifetime sexual violence among bisexual women. A comprehensive literature search was conducted within the PsycINFO and Medline databases (final search conducted in August, 2021). Inclusion criteria required articles to examine a mental health or substance use correlate/outcome of lifetime sexual victimization experiences among bisexual women. Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Results indicate that there are significant gaps in this literature, including limited research on psychological distress outcomes. Most notably, there is a limited focus on the experiences of bisexual women specifically and the role of bisexual minority stress. Findings indicate that lifetime sexual victimization experiences are linked with increased posttraumatic stress, depression, and alcohol (and other substance) use and consequences. It appears that bisexual women are vulnerable to cumulative victimization, which may further exacerbate outcomes. Clinicians working with bisexual women should provide bisexual-affirmative care, help bisexual women access positive social supports, and build more effective coping strategies for managing post-trauma distress. Future research on outcomes of violence among bisexual women would benefit from contextualizing adjustment following sexual assault within a bisexual minority stress-informed approach for a more comprehensive understanding of this process.
Damage and failure mechanisms of biaxial weft-knitted reinforced composites via meso-scale finite element modeling
Authors: Yan Li , Wang Xin , Wu Haonian , Liu Ping
Published: March 2022

A meso-scale finite element model based on progressive damage was proposed to capture the failure and damage mechanisms of biaxial weft-knitted (BWK) composites. For this purpose, a suitable representative volume element of a BWK composite material was modeled. Then, appropriate boundary conditions were applied to simulate the uniaxial tensile test in the course and wale directions. Damage and failure mechanisms were predicted by developing a VUMAT user material subroutine based on the 3D Hashin criterion. To verify the numerical results, a comparison was made with the experimental data of Hessami et al. 1 It was found that the failure mechanisms of BWK composite are determined by the geometrical parameters of the BWK fabric. Based on the numerical assessments, some recommendations were made to fully exploit the potential of BWK composites as load-bearing structures. The numerical results provided new insights into the effect of the geometric parameters of BWK preforms on the composite failure mechanisms.
STEAP3 Affects Ferroptosis and Progression of Renal Cell Carcinoma Through the p53/xCT Pathway
Authors: Ye Cheng Lin , Du Yang , Yu Xi , Chen Zhi Yuan , Wang Lei , Zheng Yong Fa , Liu Xiu Heng
Published: March 2022

Renal cell carcinoma is particularly sensitive to ferroptosis, an iron-dependent non-apoptotic form of cell death. This mechanism does not require activation of caspase or the participation of other apoptotic effector molecules (such as BAX or BAK), nor is it accompanied by the morphological characteristics or biochemical processes of apoptosis. The STEAP3 gene was found because it promotes tumor apoptosis in prostate cancer, but its role in renal cell carcinoma has not been studied in depth. Through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we found that the expression of the STEAP3 gene was upregulated in renal cell carcinoma tissue samples and cell lines, and it was found to be highly expressed in renal cell carcinoma tissue through immunohistochemistry. This upregulation is related to poor survival and prognosis of patients. We used erastin, a ferroptosis inducer, found that renal cell carcinoma became more susceptible to ferroptosis after knocking down STEAP3. The results indicate that renal cell carcinoma cell lines with knocked down STEAP3 expression are more sensitive to ferroptosis, and this effect occurs through the p53/xCT pathway. In summary, our research helps to identify new biomarkers and provides new targets for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma.
Efficacy and Safety of Topical Solution of Diperoxochloric Acid for Neuropathic Diabetic Foot Ulcer: Results from a Phase 3, Multicentre, Randomized, Active-controlled, Parallel-group Study
Authors: Bal Arun , Jain Sudhir Kumar , Jagannath  , Mohapatra Kailash Chandra , Rao Shilpa , Deshpande Neeta , Munshi Renuka , Mahey Rajeshkumar , Chowdhury Subhankar , Bhaskar M.M. , Singh Sapam Opendro , Damle Gauri , Damir Ashok , Phal Smita , Zarapkar Mukund
Published: March 2022

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), if untreated, accounts for lower-limb amputations affecting patients’ quality-of-life. Diperoxochloric acid (DPOCL) is known to heal DFU by its antibacterial and fibroblast stimulating activity. This was a phase 3, multicentre, randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, parallel-group study conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topic solution of DPOCL compared with isotonic sodium chloride solution (ISCL). Adult patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes with random blood glucose levels of <250 mg/dL, with ≤ than three full-thickness foot ulcers were enrolled. Primary efficacy endpoint was complete wound closure and secondary was wound surface area. Adverse events were analyzed as safety endpoint. Of 311 enrolled patients, 289 were randomized 1:1 to DPOCL (139) and ISCL (150) treatment (10-weeks [8-Visits]). Percentage of patients with complete wound closure at visit-8, were significantly higher ( P = .0156) in DPOCL arm (76% [105/139]) compared to ISCL (62% [93/150]) arm. At end-of-study, mean wound surface area in DPOCL arm (0.639 cm2) was significantly lower ( P = .0209) compared to ISCL (0.818 cm2) arm. One death was reported in control arm which was not considered as treatment-related. No important safety finding were observed. Results indicate that, DPOCL can be considered as effective and safe treatment option for DFU compared to ISCL, although future confirmatory studies are warranted.
Postoperative Functional Analysis of Double Crush Versus Single Peripheral Nerve Decompression: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Stoy Conrad , Beredjiklian Pedro , Kreitz Tyler , Tulipan Jacob
Published: March 2022

Background:

Double crush (DC) syndrome patients presenting with C6-7 radiculopathy and median nerve compression in the carpal tunnel report greater nerve irritability and weakness postdecompression than isolated peripheral nerve decompression. We hypothesize that patient-reported outcome is inferior following release at both cervical spine and wrist versus a single site of decompression.

Methods:

Patients that underwent either anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) for C6-C7 radiculopathy, carpal tunnel release (CTR), or both within 5 years (DC) were identified. A total of 477 patients were analyzed (157 DC, 203 CTR, and 117 ACDF). Post-operative outcome Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH), Neck Disability Index, and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were collected at an average of 2 years postoperatively.

Results:

QuickDASH scores were higher in the DC group versus CTR group (36 vs 22, P < .0002). Postoperative disability in the ACDF group was significantly higher than the DC group (50 vs 36, P < .017). There were no differences between ACDF and DC groups in arm pain intensity, but the CTR group demonstrated significantly greater arm pain intensity than the DC group (5.7 vs 3.6, 10-point scale, P < .01).

Conclusions:

Patients undergoing ACDF and CTR have greater postoperative disability than those undergoing CTR alone, but less postoperative functional disability and pain than ACDF alone, indicating cervical radiculopathy may contribute a greater proportion of long-term disability postoperatively. Additionally, CTR had greater postoperative arm pain than DC patients, potentially indicating high rates of undiagnosed cervical radiculopathy or other sources of arm pain in these patients.
And don't forget your anti in-stent stenosis pill! Commentary on ‘Factors associated with in-stent stenosis after cerebral aneurysm embolization using a Pipeline embolization device’ by Flores-Milan et al.
Authors: Sirakov Alexander , Stoyanov Nikolay , Velchev Vasil , Sirakov Stanimir
Published: March 2022

In their INR study, Flores-Milan et al. present a retrospective single-centre study that aimed to investigate and determine some of the factors associated with in-stent stenosis (ISS) after intracranial aneurysm (IA) embolization using a commercially available flow diverter stent (FD). The retrospective analyses included ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with standalone flow diverter stent implantation or initial coil obliteration with the FD device placed subsequently two weeks after initial treatment. The article's methodology was carefully tailored to demystify the unknown pathophysiological mechanism behind the entity of interest called in-stent stenosis. Study outcomes also included angiographic evaluation of aneurysm occlusion thrombotic and hemorrhagic events. The authors reported excellent technical and clinical results altogether. The achieved angiographic occlusion rates resonate with the current obliteration results reported in the literature. Mortality and morbidity are congruent with previously published results and were 5.3% and 1.1%, respectively.
Modified balloon-assisted coiling instead of acute stenting in the treatment of ruptured wide necked intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Altay Cetin Murat , Binboga Ali Burak , Onay Mehmet
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficiency of the modified balloon assisted coiling (mBAC) technique in endovascular treatment (EVT) of ruptured wide-necked aneurysms (WNAs) to avoid stent placement in the acute phase of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

Methods

The local neurointerventional radiology database was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients who underwent EVT due to ruptured WNAs by the authors. According to the EVT technique performed, the study sample was divided into 3 groups: conventional BAC, stent assisted coiling (SAC), and mBAC. The patient demographics, aneurysm features, technical and clinical complications, aneurysm occlusion grades, morbidity, and mortality rates were comparatively analyzed.

Results

This study involved a total of 113 patients who had ruptured WNAs. The mBAC technique was performed on 26 aneurysms (23 saccular and 3 fusiform) in 26 patients to avoid acute phase stenting. The mean continuous balloon inflation time was 7.1 ± 2.12 min. The initial and follow-up angiographic and clinical outcomes were better in the mBAC group than in the SAC group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The mBAC technique offers a prolonged, continuous balloon inflation time during the whole coiling process in the treatment of ruptured WNAs. The mBAC technique has the potential to obviate the need for SAC in patients who are candidates for stenting during the acute phase of SAH, and it might be considered a safe and effective endovascular approach with low complication rates and good angiographic and clinical outcomes.
Prediction and verification for the models of temperature rising by medium bubbles in hydraulic system
Authors: ShengQing Yang , Hong Ji , SenLin Li , Fei Sun , SuYan Wang
Published: March 2022

In order to obtain the influence of the medium bubble contents on temperature rising characteristics of a hydraulic system, the working hydraulic system of a wheel loader was taken as the research object. By carrying out the comparison experiments of the hydraulic system with and without de-aeration devices on a 5-ton wheel loader, the air bubble contents and concerning temperatures were obtained. To identify the factors which have impact on temperature rising of the hydraulic system, the head chamber of boom cylinder is taken to analyze, and the temperature rising expression in a volume were deduced. By the utilization of the thermal hydraulic library, combining with mechanism and control libraries on AMESim simulation platform, the integrated simulation model of the whole system was established and verified, meanwhile, the simulation was carried out from aspects in different air contents and initial chamber temperatures. From the simulation, the prediction models of the air contents to temperature rising, and the pressures to temperature rising were predicted. Finally, the correctness of the prediction models are verified by experiment data and showing good results, which can be used to enrich and improve the calculation and evaluation methods of heat generation to any other hydraulic systems.
Enacting distributed leadership in the Republic of Ireland: Assessing primary school principals’ developmental needs using constructive developmental theory
Authors: Murphy Gavin , Brennan Thomas
Published: March 2022

In the Republic of Ireland, school leadership policy adopts a distributed leadership model nationally. Given that this is a relatively recent policy development, research conducted on distributed leadership to date has highlighted that there are particular challenges for school leaders in enacting this model in practice and, more significantly, that principals have signalled their need for further leadership development in its enactment. In this study, we contribute to the growing national research on this leadership model. We chart the development of this policy and, drawing on primary school principals’ perspectives, also explore opportunities and challenges in this context at school and system levels, illustrated richly through two participant vignettes and more generally in the discussion. We argue that constructive-developmental theory, a theory that acknowledges developmental diversity and richly theorises professional growth and development, offers school and system leaders a nuanced, differentiated, and transformative approach through which leadership development activities are led at school and system levels can support principals to enact distributed leadership in practice. We conclude by describing developmental supports for leaders and considerations for system leaders and policymakers, which are also likely to be of interest beyond the Irish context given the rise of distributed leadership internationally.
Facilitators of Sense of Belonging Among People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gur Ayelet , Bina Rena
Published: March 2022

Background: This review synthesizes the available literature regarding factors which facilitate a sense of belonging in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and provide a comprehensive integrative view of the subject. Methods: Four electronic databases were searched, and 13 studies met inclusion criteria for review. The “standard quality assessment criteria for evaluating primary research papers from a variety of fields” indicated satisfactory quality. Factors which facilitate a sense of belonging in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were analyzed into themes. Results: Sense of belonging is enhanced by feeling respected, accepted, and valued (Subjectivity). These experiences are more likely to be achieved in a familiar and safe environment (Dynamism), and with access to platforms for social interactions (Groundedness), where a sense of relatedness and connectedness achieved by shared experiences with others (Reciprocity). Sense of belonging is associated with committed action of people with disability, taking assertive action or being agentic (Self-determination). Conclusion: Sense of belonging is a unique concept that should be addressed in disability research and practice.
Attention does not always help: The role of expectancy, divided, and spatial attention on illusory conjunctions
Authors: Cobos María I , Chica Ana B
Published: March 2022

Humans have the subjective impression of a rich perceptual experience, but this perception is riddled with errors that might be produced by top-down expectancies or failures in feature integration. The role of attention in feature integration is still unclear. Some studies support the importance of attention in feature integration, whereas others suggest that feature integration does not require attention. Understanding attention as a heterogeneous system, in this study, we explored the role of divided (as opposed to focused—Experiment 1) attention, and endogenous–exogenous spatial orienting (Experiments 2 and 3) in feature integration. We also explored the role of feature expectancy, by presenting stimulus features that were completely unexpected to the participants. Results demonstrated that both endogenous and exogenous orienting improved feature integration whereas divided attention did not. Moreover, a strong and consistent feature expectancy effect was observed, demonstrating perceptual completion when an unexpected perceptual feature was presented in the scene. These results support the feature confirmation account, which proposes that attention is important for top-down matching of stable representations.
Adult listeners can extract age-related cues from child-directed speech
Authors: Bozkurt Ceren , Soley Gaye
Published: March 2022

This study investigated adult listeners’ ability to detect age-related cues in child-directed speech (CDS). Participants ( N = 186) listened to two speech recordings directed at children between the ages of 6 and 44 months and guessed which had addressed a younger or an older child. The recordings came from North American English-speaking mothers and listeners were native speakers of Turkish with varying degrees of English knowledge. Participants were randomly assigned to listen either to the original recordings or to the low-pass filtered versions. Accuracy was above chance level across all groups. Participants’ English level, age, and the age difference between the addressees significantly predicted accuracy. After controlling for these variables, we found a significant effect of condition. Participants’ accuracy tended to be better in the unfiltered condition with the exception of male participants without children. These results suggest that age-related variations in CDS are perceptually available to adult listeners. Furthermore, even though sensitivity to the age-related cues is facilitated by the availability of content-related cues in speech, it does not seem to be solely dependent on these cues, providing further support for the form–function relations in CDS.
Group singing for health and wellbeing in the Republic of Ireland: the first national map
Authors: Helitzer E , Moss H
Published: March 2022

Aims:

(1) To catalogue and map all singing for health and wellbeing groups in the Republic of Ireland (ROI); (2) determine how they prioritise health outcomes; (3) understand what they consider success; and (4) identify gaps in provision.

Methods:

A novel mixed-methods survey was distributed electronically through SING Ireland (the Choir Association of Ireland), artsandhealth.ie, and to 2736 potential stakeholders with links to singing for health and wellbeing and singing on social prescription (SSP) from October 2020 to April 2021. Thematic analysis was used to analyse four open-ended survey questions.

Results:

A total of 185 singing for health and wellbeing groups were identified, with varied representation in each of the ROI’s 26 counties. 35 groups were noted to have links to SSP. Gaps in provision for clinical and individual populations and for SSP were identified. Six themes related to the success of group singing for health and wellbeing programmes were determined: fostering and funding social and community connections; the people and the approach; enjoyment and atmosphere; musical and personal growth, programmatic structure and musical content; and the impact of Covid.

Conclusion:

The first-ever national mapping of group singing for health and wellbeing in the ROI, and one of few internationally, this study may serve as a roadmap for gathering information about existing singing for health and wellbeing provision and identifying geographical and clinical gaps internationally. Recommendations are included for future research to address gaps in provision, explore the feasibility of integrating SSP more widely and for further public health investment.
Unpacking the Determinants of Outrage and Recognition in Public Discourse: Insights Across Socio-Cultural Divides, Political Systems, and Media Types
Authors: Löb Charlotte , Rinke Eike Mark , Weinmann Carina , Wessler Hartmut
Published: March 2022

The degree to which civility norms are upheld or violated is an important criterion in evaluating the democratic quality of public debates. We investigate civility across media types, political systems, and levels of socio-cultural division, offering a comparative perspective on how these factors shape levels of civility in public debates around a key question for societies around the world: What is the proper role of religion in public life? Capturing both positive and negative forms of civility (i.e., recognition and outrage) on multiple levels of analysis, we compile and analyze an original large-scale dataset of news items published during August 2015 until July 2016 in six democracies (Australia, Germany, Lebanon, Switzerland, Turkey, and the USA) across three types of media (printed newspapers, news websites, and political blogs). We find that mediated discourse was heavier on outrage in mixed political systems (Germany and Turkey) than in ‘purely’ majoritarian and consensus systems. Public debate in deeply divided countries contained more outrage but also more recognition compared to less divided countries, with newspapers and news websites mitigating outrage discourse compared to political blogs. Blogs also emerged as less nurturing of recognition than newspapers and news websites.