bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Response to High-Intensity Interval Training versus Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training in Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Julian Valérie , Costa Daniela , O’Malley Grace , Metz Lore , Fillon Alicia , Miguet Maud , Cardenoux Charlotte , Dutheil Frédéric , Boirie Yves , Duclos Martine , Courteix Daniel , Pereira Bruno , Thivel David
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Since adolescents with obesity are prone to bone fragility during weight loss, the aim was to compare the impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) versus moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on bone density, geometry, and strength. Methods: Sixty-one adolescents were randomly assigned to 2 cycling trainings (HIIT and MICT) and a control (CTR, without training) group. Anthropometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry with hip structural analysis and the trabecular bone score (TBS) were assessed before and after the 16-week intervention. Results: Body mass index (BMI) and fat mass (FM) percentage decreased at T1 versus T0 in both training groups (p < 0.001 for HIIT, p = 0.01 for MICT), though to a larger extent in HIIT (p < 0.05). Total body bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) increased in both training groups (p < 0.001), but to a greater extent in HIIT for BMC (p < 0.05). Lumbar spine BMD and BMC increased in both training groups (p < 0.001 for HIIT, p < 0.01 for MICT), with a time × group interaction between HIIT and CTR (p < 0.05) only. TBS increased in both training groups (p < 0.01 for HIIT, p < 0.05 for MICT). Hip BMD and BMC increased in both HIIT (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01) and MICT (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05). At the narrow neck (NN), endocortical diameter, width (p < 0.01), cross-sectional moment of inertia, and section modulus (Z) (p < 0.05) increased only in the HIIT group, such as BMD and Z (p < 0.05) at the intertrochanteric region (IT) and average cortical thickness (p < 0.001) and width (p < 0.05) at the femoral shaft. At the NN and IT, the buckling ratio decreased only in the HIIT group (p < 0.05), predicting higher resistance to fracture. Conclusions: In addition to inducing greater BMI and FM percentage decreases in comparison to MICT, HIIT improves multisite bone density, geometry, and strength, which heighten the justification for HIIT as part of weight loss interventions in adolescents with obesity.
High Prevalence and Early Onsets: Legal and Illegal Substance Use in an Urban Cohort of Young Adults in Switzerland
Authors: Quednow Boris B. , Steinhoff Annekatrin , Bechtiger Laura , Ribeaud Denis , Eisner Manuel , Shanahan Lilly
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Debates about the legalization of illegal substances (e.g., cannabis) continue around the globe. A key consideration in these debates is the adequate protection of young people, which could be informed by current prevalence and age-of-onset patterns. For Switzerland, such information is limited, which is particularly true for women, despite advanced political efforts to legalize cannabis. The objective of the current study was to investigate substance use prevalence rates and ages of onset in a community-representative sample of female and male young adults in Switzerland. Methods: Data came from the Zurich Project on the Social Development from Childhood to Adulthood (z-proso). In 2018, participants (N = 1,180, 50.8% females) were ∼20 years old. Lifetime and past-year use of alcohol, tobacco, cannabinoids, stimulants, hallucinogens, opioids, and benzodiazepines were assessed with an extensive substance use questionnaire. Additionally, ages of onsets of the respective substances were estimated by averaging participants’ self-reported ages of onsets from ages 13 to 20 (max. 4 assessments). Results: 57% of 20-year-olds had used cannabinoids, 16% stimulants, 15% opioids (mostly codeine), and 8% hallucinogens in the past year. Males had higher prevalence than females for most drugs; nevertheless, females’ prevalence rates were notably high. Legal substance use was typically initiated 1.3–2.7 years before legal selling age. Thus, almost half of the sample had consumed alcohol and tobacco by age 14. More than 40% of the total sample had smoked cannabis by age 16. Males initiated use of legal substances and cannabis earlier than females. Discussion: Our recent community-representative data suggested unexpectedly high levels and early onsets of substance use compared to a previous Swiss surveys and also the European average. Drug policy debates should consider urban substance use patterns when considering legalization efforts.
Diabetes Status Modifies the Association Between Different Measures of Obesity and Heart Failure Risk Among Older Adults: A Pooled Analysis of Community-Based NHLBI Cohorts
Authors: Patel Kershaw V. , Segar Matthew W. , Lavie Carl J. , Kondamudi Nitin , Neeland Ian J. , Almandoz Jaime P. , Martin Corby K. , Carbone Salvatore , Butler Javed , Powell-Wiley Tiffany M. , Pandey Ambarish
Published: December 2021

Background:

Obesity and diabetes are associated with a higher risk of heart failure (HF). The interrelationships between different measures of adiposity—overall obesity, central obesity, fat mass (FM)—and diabetes status for HF risk are not well-established.

Methods:

Participant-level data from the ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities; visit 5) and the CHS (Cardiovascular Health Study; visit 1) cohorts were obtained from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Biologic Specimen and Data Repository Information Coordinating Center, harmonized, and pooled for the present analysis, excluding individuals with prevalent HF. FM was estimated in all participants using established anthropometric prediction equations additionally validated using the bioelectrical impedance-based FM in the ARIC subgroup. Incident HF events on follow-up were captured across both cohorts using similar adjudication methods. Multivariable-adjusted Fine-Gray models were created to evaluate the associations of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and FM with risk of HF in the overall cohort as well as among those with versus without diabetes at baseline. The population attributable risk of overall obesity (BMI≥30 kg/m
2
), abdominal obesity (WC>88 and 102 cm in women and men, respectively), and high FM (above sex-specific median) for incident HF was evaluated among participants with and without diabetes.

Results:

The study included 10 387 participants (52.9% ARIC; 25.1% diabetes; median age, 74 years). The correlation between predicted and bioelectrical impedance-based FM was high (
R
2
=0.90; n=5038). During a 5-year follow-up, 447 participants developed HF (4.3%). Higher levels of each adiposity measure were significantly associated with higher HF risk (hazard ratio [95% CI] per 1 SD higher BMI=1.15 [1.05, 1.27], WC=1.22 [1.10, 1.36]; FM=1.13 [1.02, 1.25]). A significant interaction was noted between diabetes status and measures of BMI (
P
interaction=0.04) and WC (
P
interaction=0.004) for the risk of HF. In stratified analysis, higher measures of each adiposity parameter were significantly associated with higher HF risk in individuals with diabetes (hazard ratio [95% CI] per 1 SD higher BMI=1.29 [1.14–1.47]; WC=1.48 [1.29–1.70]; FM=1.25 [1.09–1.43]) but not those without diabetes, including participants with prediabetes and euglycemia. The population attributable risk percentage of overall obesity, abdominal obesity, and high FM for incident HF was higher among participants with diabetes (12.8%, 29.9%, and 13.7%, respectively) versus those without diabetes (≤1% for each).

Conclusions:

Higher BMI, WC, and FM are strongly associated with greater risk of HF among older adults, particularly among those with prevalent diabetes.
Notes on the status of Sonerila kanjilasseriensis (Melastomataceae)
Authors: ETTICKAL SUKUMARAN SANTHOSH KUMAR , FILIMBAN FATEN ZUBAIR
Published: December 2021

N/A
Seasonal Prediction of Tropical Cyclones over the North Atlantic and Western North Pacific
Authors: Befort Daniel J. , Hodges Kevin I. , Weisheimer Antje
Published: December 2021

In this study, tropical cyclones (TCs) over the western North Pacific (WNP) and North Atlantic (NA) basins are analyzed in seasonal forecasting models from five European modeling centers. Most models are able to capture the observed seasonal cycle of TC frequencies over both basins; however, large differences for numbers and spatial track densities are found. In agreement with previous studies, TC numbers are often underestimated, which is likely related to coarse model resolutions. Besides shortcomings in TC characteristics, significant positive skill (deterministic and probabilistic) in predicting TC numbers and accumulated cyclone energy is found over both basins. Whereas the predictions of TC numbers over the WNP basin are mostly unreliable, most seasonal forecast provide reliable predictions for the NA basin. Besides positive skill over the entire NA basin, all seasonal forecasting models are skillful in predicting the interannual TC variability over a region covering the Caribbean and North American coastline, suggesting that the models carry useful information, including for adaptation and mitigation purposes ahead of the upcoming TC season. However, skill in all forecast models over a smaller region centered along the Asian coastline is smaller compared to their skill in the entire WNP basin.
Heterogeneous Effects of Intergenerational Social Mobility: An Improved Method and New Evidence
Authors: Luo Liying
Published: December 2021

Intergenerational social mobility has immense implications for individuals’ well-being, attitudes, and behaviors. However, previous methods may be unreliable for estimating heterogeneous mobility effects, especially in the presence of moderate- or large-scale intergenerational mobility. I propose an improved method, called the “mobility contrast model” (MCM). Using simulation evidence, I demonstrate that the MCM is more flexible and reliable for estimating and testing heterogeneous mobility effects, and the results are robust to the scale of intergenerational mobility. I revisit the debate about the effect of mobility on fertility and analyze data from the 1962 Occupational Changes in a Generation Study (OCG-1) and more recent data from the 1974 through 2018 General Social Survey (GSS) using previous models and the MCM. The MCM suggests a small association between fertility and occupational mobility in the GSS data but substantial and heterogeneous educational mobility effects on fertility in the OCG-1 and the GSS. Such effects are difficult to pinpoint using previous methods because mobility effects of different magnitudes and opposite directions among mobility groups may cancel each other out. The new method can be extended to investigate the effect of intergenerational mobility across multiple generations and other research areas, including immigrant assimilation and heterogamy.
Hands-on training on exhumation – an approach to train forensic medicine residents in South Asia
Authors: Atreya Alok , Menezes Ritesh G , Acharya Apurba
Published: December 2021

Forensic anthropology utilises the knowledge gained from the examination of human remains. It is a requirement for forensic medicine residents to have knowledge of forensic anthropology and exhumation. Most of the forensic medicine residents in the Indian sub-continent graduate only with a theoretical knowledge and without a proper practical training of the process involved. We demonstrate how hands-on training would be beneficial.
Fatal wild leopard attack injuries in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Debbarma Swapan , Bhute Ashish R , Vaibhav Vikas , Parate Shailesh V
Published: December 2021

Leopard attacks on human beings is common in Uttarakhand which is an area of national conservation. The objective of this study is to examine the pattern of injuries and circumstances to encourage ways of reducing such conflicts. There were eight deaths from leopard attacks brought for autopsy to the mortuary between January 2019 and August 2020. Incidents occurred mostly in a forest close to human settlements. One tourist was among the male victims, the remainder of whom were women carrying out household duties near the forest. Leopard attack injuries present in the head and neck were ante-mortem, with abdomen, buttocks and limbs post-mortem. People living at the border of protected areas need alternative means of support to enable them to avoid using forest resources, tourists must be warned to avoid wandering in the area.
Book review: Petar Stankov, Political Economy of Populism: An Introduction
Authors: Khobragade Prateek P.
Published: December 2021

Petar Stankov, Political Economy of Populism: An Introduction. New York: Taylor & Francis, 2021, 108 pp., ₹4,458, ISBN 978-0-429-35569-1, ISBN: 978-0-429-35569-1 (E-Book).
Exclusion and Representation in the Media Discourse
Authors: Arya Sadhna
Published: December 2021

Maitrayee Chaudhuri, Refashioning India: Gender, Media and a Transformed Public Discourse. New Delhi: Orient BlackSwan, 2017, pp. 325, ₹895, ISBN: 9386689006 (Hardback).
The Iterative Process of Legitimacy-Building in Hybrid Organizations
Authors: Rosser Christian , Ilgenstein Sabrina A. , Sager Fritz
Published: December 2021

Hybrid organizations face the fundamental challenge of building legitimacy. To deal with this challenge in administrative theory and practice, we apply an analytical framework following an organizational logic of legitimacy building to an exemplary case of hybridity—the Swiss Institute for Translational and Entrepreneurial Medicine. Our framework application illustrates that pragmatic legitimacy (i.e., establishing instrumental value) must be built before moral legitimacy (i.e., fostering normative evaluation) and cognitive legitimacy (i.e., creating comprehensibility), followed by an iterative process of mutual influence between the legitimacy forms. Originating in the management literature, the framework promises new insights for public administration research on hybrids.
Model reference control in quasi-linear systems with a parametric feed-forward compensator and state-feedback stabilization controller
Authors: Liu Weizhen , Duan Guangren , Gu Dake
Published: December 2021

In this paper, a parametric feed-forward compensator and a parametric state-feedback stabilization controller are proposed for the model reference control to a class of quasi-linear systems. Quasi-linear systems are a special type of nonlinear systems whose coefficient matrices contain the state variables and also a time-varying parameter vector. The parametric state-feedback stabilization controller guarantees the stability of the closed-loop system and the parametric feed-forward compensator compensates the effect of the reference model state to the tracking error. The complete parametrization of the parametric feed-forward compensator is established based on a complete parametric solution to a class of generalized Sylvester matrix equations and solution of a coefficient matrix such that two matrix equations are satisfied. The established parametric state-feedback stabilization controller only needs a complete parametric solution to the same generalized Sylvester matrix equations but with different sets of freely designed parameters that represent the degrees of design freedom and may be further utilized to improve the system performance. A linear closed-loop form with the desired eigenstructure can be derived with the proposed parametric feed-forward compensator and parametric state-feedback stabilization controller, and a constant linear can even be obtained in certain cases. A numerical example and the application in spacecraft rendezvous are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Simultaneous actuator and sensor fault estimation for neutral-type systems via intermediate observer
Authors: Wei Yuheng , Tong Dongbing , Chen Qiaoyu , Sun Yuqing , Zhou Wuneng
Published: December 2021

This study addresses the fault estimation (FE) issue for neutral-type systems with sensor faults and actuator faults through the intermediate observer. First, it is well-known that the observer matching condition (OMC) ought to be met for most traditional FE methods, which is actually difficult to satisfy for many systems. In order to overcome this limitation, a suitable variable is designed and the intermediate observer is proposed to estimate the actuator and sensor faults for neutral-type systems simultaneously. Second, based on linear matrix inequalities, sufficient conditions are derived, which guarantee the existence of the intermediate observer. An augmented descriptor system is constructed for the neutral-type systems. By the Lyapunov stability theory, states of error systems are ultimately bounded. Finally, two examples demonstrate the effectiveness and practicability of the designed strategy.
Finiteness marking in Russian-speaking children with Specific Language Impairment
Authors: Levy-Forsythe Zarina , Hacohen Aviya
Published: December 2021

Much crosslinguistic acquisition research explores finiteness marking in typical development and Specific Language Impairment (SLI). Research into Russian, however, has focused on typical acquisition, not SLI. This article presents a first attempt to investigate finiteness marking in monolingual Russian-speaking children with SLI. We test two competing hypotheses: the Extended Optional Infinitive (EOI) hypothesis and the morphological richness account. The former predicts a large proportion of non-finite forms in the speech of children with SLI crosslinguistically. Due to the rich morphological verbal system of Russian, the latter hypothesis predicts that finiteness marking in Russian SLI will be relatively unimpeded, except for ‘near-miss’ errors. To test these predictions, we analyzed picture-story narrative samples collected from 67 monolingual Russian-acquiring children aged 4;1 to 4;11. All samples are part of the BiSLI corpus created by Tribushinina and colleagues and publicly available through the CHILDES project. We found that, similar to both aged-matched typically developing (TD) controls (N = 24) and younger TD children (N = 23), children with SLI (N = 20) are essentially adultlike in terms of finiteness marking of verbal forms in the matrix clause. The handful of errors observed in the SLI sample involved substitutions in only one inflectional category. These findings provide support for the morphological richness hypothesis over the EOI model of Russian SLI.
Covert Conditioning for Persistent Aggressive Behaviors: A Case Illustration
Authors: Kavan  , Grover Naveen , Jain Nikita , Dhiman Vishal
Published: December 2021

In psychotherapy practice and training, single case study design plays an indispensable role by effectively articulating the application of textbook knowledge, thereby bridging the gap between theory and practice. This article, on similar lines, illustrates one such successful example of the application of the classical behavioral technique of covert conditioning modified with a component of verbal challenging. A woman in her late-thirties reported with long-standing seemingly-resistant-to-treat symptoms of aggressive behavior of beating children. The client had a total of 10 daily sessions of 60–90 minutes each. By the end of one week, she reported not beating children in this period. She felt extremely relieved because it had happened for the first time in 10 years. The intensity of anger had decreased drastically, and she was not shouting any longer. She had to discontinue sessions abruptly due to unavoidable circumstances. Although she was suggested to follow up the intensive sessions again, she was not able to do it due to feasibility issues. The improvement was maintained on follow-up visits after two weeks, four weeks, and three months.
Communication and literacy development for adolescents with deafblindness: Teacher beliefs, learning outcomes, and instructional strategies
Authors: Brum Christopher
Published: December 2021

For individuals with deafblindness a strong relationship exists between communication and literacy, making these critical areas of development. Definitions of literacy for this population must extend beyond traditional notions of reading and writing text to better support communication development. The beliefs teachers maintain, the learning outcomes they set, and the instructional strategies they employ might greatly impact student learning related to communication and literacy. Shared reading could provide a context where communication and literacy skills may be developed for learners with deafblindness. This qualitative study investigated how teachers used shared reading to support communication and literacy development for adolescents with congenital deafblindness. It explored how teacher beliefs about communication and literacy development influenced the learning outcomes they established and the instructional strategies they utilized during shared reading. Data were collected in three secondary classrooms through observations, interviews, and field notes. Thematic analysis was conducted for each individual case and then across cases using a cross-case analysis. For individual cases, themes related to teacher beliefs included connection between communication and literacy, and a comprehensive understanding of deafblindness. Themes related to instructional strategies included communication across multiple forms, focus on the communication process, and systematic instruction. In the discussion of the results, the instructional strategies of the Tri-Focus Framework were used to identify how communication development was supported during the literacy lessons observed. In addition, the use of systematic instruction and formative assessment provided a comprehensive approach to supporting communication and literacy skills during shared reading. Meaningful literacy activities, such as shared reading, have the potential to support communication development for individuals with congenital deafblindness. Teachers require a comprehensive understanding of the nature of deafblindness in order to effectively support an individual’s communication and literacy development.
The state of the professionalisation of the records and archives management profession in Zimbabwe
Authors: Khumalo Njabulo Bruce
Published: December 2021

The professionalisation of any given field is at the heart of establishing the records and archives management profession as well as making it visible and respected in the work space. Without professionalisation, records and archives management professionals will continue to be undermined in the workplace and thus, struggle to pursue the mission and purpose of managing records throughout their life cycle. This study sought to investigate the state of professionalisation of the records and archives management field in Zimbabwe with a view to recommending ways through which the field can work towards professionalising. A quantitative research methodology, a cross sectional survey research design and systematic random sampling otherwise known as ordinal sampling was applied.
Macrophages in dermal disease progression of phospholipase D4–deficient Fleckvieh calves
Authors: Langenmayer Martin C. , Jung Simone , Fux Robert , Wittlinger Christina , Tschoner Theresa , Majzoub-Altweck Monir , Knubben-Schweizer Gabriela , Fries Ruedi , Hermanns Walter , Trefz Florian M.
Published: December 2021

A new gene defect in Fleckvieh calves leads to a syndrome with partial phenotype overlap with bovine hereditary zinc deficiency. A mutation in a gene encoding phospholipase D4 ( PLD4), an endosomal exonuclease, causes the disorder. In mice, PLD4 activity indirectly regulates the Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) pathway via degradation of microbial DNA. PLD4 absence thus results in visceral macrophage activation comparable to human macrophage activation syndrome. In this study, disease progression and the role of macrophages in affected calves were monitored clinically, clinicopathologically, and histologically over time. Breeding data identified 73 risk matings of heterozygous carriers resulting in 54 potentially PLD4-deficient calves born on farms. PLD4 status was examined via 5′-exonuclease assay, detecting 6 calves carrying the defect. These were purchased and monitored daily until final necropsy. The calves developed progressive skin lesions starting with small scaling areas terminating in severe crusting dermatitis, especially in areas with mechanical exposure. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses indicated that macrophages with cytoplasmic vacuolation increased considerably in skin sections obtained weekly during the disease course. Macrophage increase correlated with increased dermal lesion severity. Macrophage activation was confirmed by prominent phagocytic activity in the superficial dermis using electron microscopy. Dermal mRNA abundance of CCL2 and CCL3 measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction verified macrophage activation. Further increase in mRNA of downstream molecule MyD88 and cytokine IL12b connected bovine PLD4 deficiency to increased TLR9 pathway activation. In contrast to human macrophage activation syndrome, the main feature of bovine PLD4 deficiency was local disease in organs with contact to microbial DNA (skin, intestine, lungs).
The Shabtis of the God’s Father, Yuya
Authors: Mekawy Ouda Ahmed M.
Published: December 2021

This paper re-publishes the shabtis of Yuya, father of Queen Tiye and father-in-law of King Amenhotep III, which are kept at the Egyptian Museum Cairo (CG 51024–34, 51036) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York (MMA 30.8.56–30.8.58). The latter were excluded from the 1908 publication by J. E. Quibell which lacks adequate images, or even images altogether. 1 It also presents a ‘model’ of three shabtis to represent the entire set, 2 though it is challenging to find two identical shabti texts. 3 The aim of this paper is to study the state of preservation of these shabtis, as it has not been addressed since the discovery of the tomb (KV46) in 1905, 4 especially considering seven shabtis in the Egyptian Museum Cairo were looted on the ‘Friday of Anger’, on 28 January 2011. It presents a full transcription, translation and commentary on the entire set, highlighting the similarities and differentiation between the texts on the shabtis and whether they were made by a single artist or different sculptors. It also investigates the titles of the owner, his name and the facial features.
Thermo-mechanical stress analysis of rotating fiber reinforced variable thickness disk
Authors: Can Farukoğlu Ömer , Korkut İhsan
Published: December 2021

Circumferentially fiber reinforced composite disk, which has a variable thickness, is modeled via analytical approaches. The disk is subjected to rotation in traction free conditions and decreasing, constant, and increasing steady state radial temperature gradients along the disk radius. Limit angular velocities are calculated by operating Tsai-Wu and Norris failure indexes to the problem. Subsequently, these limit velocities are gradually decreased to examine the stress and displacement fields. Acquired results show that as the angular velocity drops, the effects of temperature gradients become more visible. At lower angular velocities, these gradients may even alter the stress field directions. Also, different failure criteria implementation may change the calculated limit velocities to a considerable degree. Therefore, the failure index should be chosen attentively to procure conservative results. In the investigation, the influence of disk geometry on the directional stresses is studied as well. Without further ado, it can be expressed that the geometry causes slight alterations in stresses and displacements.
Compaction pressure distribution and pressure uniformity of segmented rollers for automated fiber placement
Authors: He Yuxiao , Jiang Junxia , Qu Weiwei , Ke Yinglin
Published: December 2021

For automated fiber placement onto molds with complex surfaces, uneven compaction pressure distribution limits tows number in a single sequence and affects layup quality. Compaction roller has a direct influence on the pressure distribution, but the relationship between the two has not been widely explored. In this paper, the segmented compaction roller is used, and a theoretical model of compaction pressure distribution for layup onto general surfaces is established by analyzing the contact between the roller and prepreg layers, followed by experimental validation. Based on the model, single-point pressure uniformity and whole-path pressure uniformity are proposed to quantitatively evaluate the pressure distribution. Furthermore, pressure distribution and pressure uniformity of segmented roller and common roller are compared, as well as the influence of the two pressure distribution on layup quality. The results show that the established model can predict pressure distribution and provide a basis for analyzing layup defects, and segmented rollers apply evener compaction pressure and help to improve layup quality.
Cognitive Screening Instruments for Older Adults with Low Educational and Literacy Levels: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pellicer-Espinosa Isabel , Díaz-Orueta Unai
Published: December 2021

This study presents a systematic review on existing cognitive screening tools for mild cognitive impairment and dementia in populations with low education and literacy levels. Cochrane Library, PubMed and LILACS databases were examined for studies including adults aged 50 years old or older with low educational level. 61 articles were included. Despite its frequent use, studies on Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) revealed that educational level biased the score obtained, regardless of other factors. Separately, the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly, the Fototest, or the Eurotest, appear to minimize the effect of education and literacy. MMSE is unreliable for individuals with low literacy. Tasks involving reading, writing, arithmetics, drawing, praxis, visuospatial, and visuoconstructive skills have a greater educational bias than naming, orientation, or memory. An adequate determination of educational level and validation of instruments in populations with heterogeneous levels of literacy requires further research.
Effects of grass type on hydraulic response of the three-layer landfill cover system
Authors: Feng Song , Liu Hong Wei , Cai Qi Peng , Jian Wen Bin
Published: December 2021

Soil column tests were conducted to investigate the effects of grass type on water infiltration in a three-layer landfill cover under drying and wetting conditions. Five soil columns were prepared, including one bare, two Bermuda grass-planted and the other two vetiver-planted. During the drying period, the suction of vetiver-planted soil column was the largest, while that of bare case was the lowest. During the wetting period, the infiltration rate shows a bimodal form due to the contrasting hydraulic properties of different soil layers. The infiltration rate of vetiver-planted soil column was the lowest, followed by Bermuda grass-planted and bare cases. Correspondingly, the vetiver-planted soil column retained the maximum suction and the deepest ponding depth during rainfall. This was likely due to the larger leaf area and deeper roots of vetiver than those of Bermuda grass, thus inducing the maximum initial suction by root water uptake before rainfall and reducing the water permeability by root occupations of soil pores. These results show that vetiver is more effective than Bermuda grass to reduce water percolation through the three-layer landfill cover.
In-depth temperature and smoke production of charring wood under a constant external heat flux
Authors: Matsuyama Yumi , Takahashi Fumiaki
Published: December 2021

The combustion characteristics of charring wood have been studied experimentally in a well-ventilated environment of a smoke chamber. A numerical simulation has also been performed for a limited case, with the Fire Dynamics Simulator, to estimate the burning environment. A horizontally placed specimen (ponderosa pine) with a moisture content of 0% or 20% is exposed to a radiant flux (25 kW/m2), with or without flaming ignition. Simultaneous measurements of the specimen’s in-depth temperature and the mass loss determine the charring front (rate) at 300 °C and the gasification rate, respectively. These condensed-phase conditions relate directly to real-time variations of gas-phase quantities: the specific optical density of smoke and the concentrations of toxic gases measured by a Fourier transform infrared gas analyzer. In-depth temperature trends are similar whether the flame exists, whereas the smoke and toxicants’ concentrations are substantially different. After the charring front moves through the specimen, the oxidative pyrolysis continues under the irradiation at high temperatures (up to ∼550 °C). Carbon monoxide and acrolein are produced continuously throughout the test, and the results indicate strong correlations. Although char formation of wood is favorable for fire safety, consequent incomplete combustion produces smoke and toxicants.
What Do We Know About Interventions to Prevent Low Back Injury and Pain Among Nurses and Nursing Students? A Scoping Review
Authors: Duffett-Leger Linda , Beck Amy J. , Siddons Anya , Bright Katherine S. , Alix Hayden K.
Published: December 2021

Study background

Back injuries are common among nurses worldwide with lifetime prevalence of lower back pain ranging from 35% to 80%, making nursing a profession at great risk for back injuries.

Purpose

This systematic scoping review explored and mapped existing evidence regarding the prevention of low back injury and pain among nurses and nursing students.

Methods

Using a scoping review methodology, six databases were searched initially in September 2017 and updated June 2020. Studies investigating interventions designed to reduce back injuries and pain among regulated nurses and student nurses, published in peer-review journals and written in English, were eligible for inclusion in this review. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies of regulated nurses, nursing students, and nursing aides were included. Two independent reviewers screened, critically analysed studies using a quality appraisal tool, extracted data, and performed quality appraisals.

Results

Two searches yielded 3,079 abstracts and after title, abstract and screening, our final synthesis was based on 48 research studies.

Conclusions

Forty years of research has demonstrated improvements in quality over time, the efficacy of interventions to prevent back injury and pain remains unclear, given the lack of high-quality studies. Further research, using multi-dimensional approaches and rigorous study designs, are needed.
Perceived Stress as a Pathway for the Relationship Between Neighborhood Factors and Glycemic Control in Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Egede Joshua K. , Campbell Jennifer A. , Walker Rebekah J. , Egede Leonard E.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Neighborhood factors such as crime, discrimination, and violence are increasingly recognized as correlates of poor glycemic control. However, pathways for these relationships are unclear. This study examined stress and self-efficacy as potential pathways for the relationship between neighborhood factors and glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Two primary care clinics in southeastern US.

Participants

615 adults aged 18 years and older.

Measures

Validated measures were used to capture neighborhood factors, stress, and self-efficacy, while hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was abstracted from the electronic health record.

Analysis

Path analysis was used to investigate direct and indirect relationships between neighborhood factors, stress, self-efficacy, and glycemic control.

Results

In the final model, violence (r = .17, P = .024), discrimination (r = .46, P < .001), and crime (r = .36, P = .046) were directly associated with higher perceived stress. Stress (r = −.5, P < .001) was directly associated with lower self-efficacy. Self-efficacy was directly associated with better general diet (r = .12, P < .001), better specific diet (r = .04, P < .001), more exercise (r = .08, P < .001), and lower HbA1c (r = −.11, P < .001). Stress (r = .05, P < .001), crime (r = .20, P < .001), and discrimination (r = .08, P < .001) were indirectly associated with higher HbA1c.

Conclusion

Stress and self-efficacy are potential pathways for the relationship between neighborhood factors like violence, discrimination, and crime and glycemic control. Interventions aimed at mitigating stress and improving self-efficacy may improve self-care behaviors and glycemic control.
Characterization of polylactic acid/thermoplastic polyurethane composite filaments manufactured for additive manufacturing with fused deposition modeling
Authors: Jayswal Ajay , Adanur Sabit
Published: December 2021

Polylactic acid and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) were mixed in different proportions and extruded through twin-screw and single screw extruders to obtain composite filaments to be used for additive manufacturing (3D printing) with fused deposition modeling method. The properties of the filaments were characterized using uniaxial tensile tests, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, rheology, polarized optical microscope, and scanning electron microscope. 3D printed samples from composite filaments were tested using dynamic mechanical analysis. It was found that the tensile strength and modulus of the filaments decrease while elongation at break increases with the increasing TPU content in the composite. The analysis also showed a partial miscibility of the polymer constituents in the solution of composite filaments. Finally, a flexible structure, plain weave fabric, was designed and 3D printed using the composite filaments developed which proved that the filaments are well suited for 3D printing.
Research on the mathematical modelling of the starting torque of self-lubricating spherical plain bearings
Authors: Wang Qiang , Chen Jigang , Zhou Haili , Lyu Xuan , Hu Zhanqi
Published: December 2021

The starting torque of self-lubricating spherical plain bearings (SSPBs) is a key parameter for evaluating the performance of bearings. Therefore, the starting torque of SSPBs should be controlled to within an allowable range. In this paper, the starting torque generation mechanism is analyzed, and the critical load for the separation of the liner from the outer spherical surface of the inner ring is determined. A mathematical model of the starting torque is established; the experimental and theoretical results of the starting torque are compared and analyzed, and then the accuracy of the mathematical model is evaluated by the deterministic coefficient R2. The research reveals that a critical load exists for the starting torque. Below the critical load, the starting torque is dependent on the outer spherical radius of the inner ring, bearing wrap angle, and liner parameters such as the compressive elastic modulus, friction coefficient, and precompression of the liner; however, the starting torque is independent of the radial load. Above the critical load, the starting torque is also dependent on the radial load. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the design and application of bearings.
Detailed analysis and characterization of Subjective Assessment Indicators of manual and automated parking maneuvers
Authors: Scheck Korbinian , Pfeffer Peter E , Schick Bernhard
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a detailed analysis and characterization of Subjective Assessment Indicators for evaluating manual as well as fully automatic parking maneuvers. Parking is a huge challenge for many drivers. With the introduction of autonomous driving, parking maneuver assistants are essential functional components. For the development of automatic parking assistants, a detailed characterization of a subjective evaluation is essential. The characterization analysis presented here is based on general Subjective Assessment Indicators, which cover the subjective overall performance of a parking maneuver on a customer-oriented level in as many facets as necessary. This paper shows meaningful characteristics of the individual Subjective Assessment Indicators validated in a driving study with 497 performed parking maneuvers. The study results reveal different degrees of intensity of the characterizations for the different driving maneuvers. Here, it is shown that the characterization of the Final Parking Position has different reference points for longitudinal and lateral parking maneuvers. Furthermore, it was shown that an additional characteristic “Driving-Off Behavior” is required for the evaluation of the Safety Feeling, but for Parking Comfort the “Lateral Acceleration” and for Dynamic Performance the “Distance Traveled” can be neglected. The characteristics described in this paper can be used for all parking maneuvers and vehicle types. It forms the basis for a complete evaluation and enables OEMs to apply their individual requirements in the development of parking assistants.
Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of acupuncture for angina in an underserved diverse population
Authors: DeVon Holli A , Uwizeye Glorieuse , Cai Hui Yan , Shroff Adhir R , Briller Joan E , Ardati Amer , Hoppensteadt Debra , Rountree Lauren , Schlaeger Judith M
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

Stable angina is ischemic chest pain on exertion or with emotional stress. Despite guideline-directed therapy, up to 30% of patients have suboptimal pain relief. The aims of this study were to: (1) determine the feasibility and acceptability of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of acupuncture; and (2) evaluate preliminary efficacy of acupuncture with respect to reduction of pain and increased functional status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods:

Participants with stable angina for ⩾1 month received either a standardized acupuncture protocol, twice per week for 5 weeks, or an attention control protocol. Measures included the McGill Pain Questionnaire (average pain intensity (API), pain now) and the Seattle Angina Questionnaire–7 (functional status, symptoms, and HRQoL). Feasibility was defined as ⩾80% recruitment, ⩾75% retention following enrollment, and ⩾80% completion. Descriptive statistics and mixed-effects linear regression were used for analysis.

Results:

The sample (n = 24) had a mean age of 59 ± 12 years, was predominantly female (63%), and represented minority groups (8% White, 52% Black, 33% Hispanic, and 8% Other). Feasibility was supported by 79% retention and 89% completion rates. The recruitment rate (68%) was slightly lower than expected. Acceptability scores were 87.9% for the acupuncture group and 51.7% for the control group. Outcomes were significantly better for the acupuncture versus control groups (API, b = −2.1 (1.1), p = 0.047; functional status, b = 27.6 (7.2), p < 0.001; and HRQoL, b = 38.8 (11.9), p = 0.001).

Conclusions and implications:

Acupuncture was feasible and acceptable in our diverse sample. We were slightly under the recruitment target of 80%, but participants who started the study had a high likelihood of completing it. Acupuncture shows promise for stable angina, but its effectiveness needs to be confirmed by a larger, adequately powered RCT.

Trial registration number:

NCT02914834 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Prioritisation of colonoscopy services in colorectal cancer screening programmes to minimise impact of COVID-19 pandemic on predicted cancer burden: A comparative modelling study
Authors: van Wifferen Francine , de Jonge Lucie , Worthington Joachim , Greuter Marjolein J.E. , Lew Jie-Bin , Nadeau Claude , van den Puttelaar Rosita , Feletto Eleonora , Yong Jean H.E. , Lansdorp-Vogelaar Iris , Canfell Karen , Coupé Veerle M.H. ,   on behalf of the COVID-19 and Cancer Global Modelling Consortium (CCGMC) working group 2
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening with a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) has been disrupted in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Performing catch-up of missed screens while maintaining regular screening services requires additional colonoscopy capacity that may not be available. This study aimed to compare strategies that clear the screening backlog using limited colonoscopy resources.

Methods

A range of strategies were simulated using four country-specific CRC natural-history models: Adenoma and Serrated pathway to Colorectal CAncer (ASCCA) and MIcrosimulation SCreening ANalysis for CRC (MISCAN-Colon) (both in the Netherlands), Policy1-Bowel (Australia) and OncoSim (Canada). Strategies assumed a 3-month screening disruption with varying recovery period lengths (6, 12, and 24 months) and varying FIT thresholds for diagnostic colonoscopy. Increasing the FIT threshold reduces the number of referrals to diagnostic colonoscopy. Outcomes for each strategy were colonoscopy demand and excess CRC-related deaths due to the disruption.

Results

Performing catch-up using the regular FIT threshold in 6, 12 and 24 months could prevent most excess CRC-related deaths, but required 50%, 25% and 12.5% additional colonoscopy demand, respectively. Without exceeding usual colonoscopy demand, up to 60% of excess CRC-related deaths can be prevented by increasing the FIT threshold for 12 or 24 months. Large increases in FIT threshold could lead to additional deaths rather than preventing them.

Conclusions

Clearing the screening backlog in 24 months could avert most excess CRC-related deaths due to a 3-month disruption but would require a small increase in colonoscopy demand. Increasing the FIT threshold slightly over 24 months could ease the pressure on colonoscopy resources.
Political Economy of Development in the Indian State of Nagaland: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Walling S. Limakumba , Humtsoe Tumbenthung Y.
Published: December 2021

The state of Nagaland came into existence in 1963, with the union government granting special status to the state under Article 371A of the Indian constitution. These special provisions safeguard the indigenous social and customary practices and economic resources from the interventions and policies of the union government sans state legislature’s concurring resolution on the same. The special status while protecting the aforementioned rights of the Nagas creates a contrasting duality of sorts—in that modern market based democratic and economic institutions coexist with the traditional institutions. This blending of the old and the new often creates contestations and contradictions within the state’s political, social and economic spheres. In understanding these issues besieging Nagaland, neoliberal narratives of development economics and policy prescriptions thereof may be ill-disposed. The present article attempts to unravel the factors arresting economic development in the state by analysing various macroeconomic indicators. It is suggested that at the core lies the conflict between an attempt to establish a modern market-based economy with private ownership and that of a tribal-community based economic rights with customary laws and practices. The imperative role of the state government is emphasised to provide a mechanism for resolving the economic questions and ushering in development while preserving the rights of the indigenous people.