bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the support experiences of families of children with autism and sensory processing difficulties: A qualitative study
Authors: Milosevic Sarah , Brookes‐Howell Lucy , Randell Elizabeth , Williams‐Thomas Rhys , Delport Sue , Busse Monica , Gillespie David , Ahuja Alka S. , McKigney Anne Marie , Glarou Eleni , McNamara Rachel
Published: March 2022

Background

Support, such as information, advice and therapies, can play a vital role in the lives of families of autistic children. However, little is known about the support experiences of UK parents and carers.

Aim

To explore experiences of and access to support for families of children with autism and sensory processing difficulties, from the perspective of parents and carers.

Methods

Semi‐structured, timeline‐assisted interviews were conducted with parents/carers of 30 children aged 5–11, exploring experiences of support. Framework analysis was used to identify themes in the interview data.

Results

Support varied widely and was not accessed equitably. Specialist autism support, together with support from other parents and voluntary organizations, was perceived as more useful than statutory and nonspecialist provision. Unmet support needs included an ongoing point of contact for information and advice for parents, and access to direct therapy and specialist mental health provision for children.

Conclusions

Findings emphasize the need for a clear pathway of support following autism diagnosis, autism‐specific training for professional service providers and specialist provision tailored to the needs of autistic children.

Patient or Public Contribution

An advisory group of four parents of children with autism provided feedback on study procedures and materials, including participant information sheets and timeline completion instructions.
Ethical issues experienced by persons with rheumatoid arthritis in a wearable‐enabled physical activity intervention study
Authors: Leese Jenny , Zhu Siyi , Townsend Anne F. , Backman Catherine L. , Nimmon Laura , Li Linda C.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Using wearables to self‐monitor physical activity is a promising approach to support arthritis self‐management. Little is known, however, about the context in which ethical issues may be experienced when using a wearable in self‐management. We used a relational ethics lens to better understand how persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) experience their use of a wearable as part of a physical activity counselling intervention study involving a physiotherapist (PT).

Methods

Constructivist grounded theory and a relational ethics lens guided the study design. This conceptual framework drew attention to benefits, downsides and tensions experienced in a context of relational settings (micro and macro) in which participants live. Fourteen initial and eleven follow‐up interviews took place with persons with RA in British Columbia, Canada, following participation in a wearable‐enabled intervention study.

Results

We created three main categories, exploring how experiences of benefits, downsides and tensions when using the intervention intertwined with shared moral values placed on self‐control, trustworthiness, independence and productivity: (1) For some, using a wearable helped to ‘do something right’ by taking more control over reaching physical activity goals. Some, however, felt ambivalent, believing both there was nothing more they could do and that they had not done enough to reach their goal; (2) Some participants described how sharing wearable data supported and challenged mutual trustworthiness in their relationship with the PT; (3) For some, using a wearable affirmed or challenged their sense of self‐respect as an independent and productive person.

Conclusion

Participants in this study reported that using a wearable could support and challenge their arthritis self‐management. Constructing moral identity, with qualities of self‐control, trustworthiness, independence and productivity, within the relational settings in which participants live, was integral to ethical issues encountered. This study is a key step to advance understanding of ethical issues of using a wearable as an adjunct for engaging in physical activity from a patient's perspective.

Patient or Public Contribution

Perspectives of persons with arthritis (mostly members of Arthritis Research Canada's Arthritis Patient Advisory Board) were sought to shape the research question and interpretations throughout data analysis.
Water kefir grains vs. milk kefir grains: Physical, microbial and chemical comparison
Authors: Gökırmaklı Çağlar , Güzel-Seydim Zeynep B.
Published: March 2022

Aims

Although kefir has been known for centuries, there is confusion between the two types of kefir grains, for example, milk kefir (MK) grain and water kefir (WK) grain. This study aimed to unravel the differences and similarities between WK grain and MK grain.

Methods and Results

Microbiological analyses, identification of grains microbiota and enumeration of microbiological content of the grains as well as scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging, dry matter, protein, ash, and mineral content, and colour analyses were carried out for the two types of grains. As a result, significant differences were found in microbiological content, chemical properties and colours (p < 0.05). Additionally, SEM images revealed the different intrinsic structures for the microbiota and the structure of the two types of grains.

Conclusions

MK grain has more nutritional content compared to WK grain. Despite not as widely known and used as MK grain, WK grain is a good source for minerals and health-friendly micro-organisms such as lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. WK grain is possibly suitable for vegans and allergic individuals to fulfil nutritional requirements. Moreover, in this study, the variety of WK grain microbial consortia was wider than that of MK grains, and this significantly affected the resultant WK products.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This is the first study that comprehensively compares two different kefir grains in microbial, chemical and physical properties.
Application of Caring Life‐Course Theory to explore care needs in women with pregnancy‐related pelvic girdle pain
Authors: Ceprnja Dragana , Lawless Michael , Liamputtong Pranee , Gupta Amitabh , Chipchase Lucy
Published: March 2022

Aims

To describe the care needs of women with pregnancy‐related pelvic girdle pain based on the Caring Life‐Course Theory.

Design

A descriptive qualitative research design.

Methods

Data were collected between November 2019 and February 2021 from 20 purposively selected pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain aged between 22 and 39 years in antenatal care at a tertiary hospital in Australia. Individual semi‐structured interviews were recorded via a digital audio recorder and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis method was used to analyse the data.

Findings

Five broad themes were identified: pain is an added burden to pregnancy; knowledge is power to own what happens to me; engaging in self‐help; care from others is useful; and pain deserves more attention from healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

Caring Life‐Course Theory presented a useful and applicable scaffold for describing care needs of pregnant women with pelvic girdle pain. The study revealed experiencing pelvic girdle pain led to additional care needs during pregnancy, highlighting the importance of self‐management strategies and an appreciation of care from others to assist women in limiting the effects of the pain. Participants identified the need for more information and attention from healthcare professionals to be able to better manage their condition.

Impact

This study presents a comprehensive picture of the change in care needs triggered by experiencing pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. The findings have the potential to facilitate better care provision by considering novel methods of delivery, such as information and communication technology, whilst acknowledging the value placed on credible and trusted sources. Knowledge acquired through this study may be used by nurses and midwives, along with other healthcare professionals, to enhance the provision of comprehensive care that is acceptable to women with pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy.
Sustainability in a global circular economy: Insights on consumer price sensitivity
Authors: Hanumante Neeraj C. , Shastri Yogendra , Hoadley Andrew
Published: March 2022

Circular economy (CE) is seen as a way of achieving global sustainability. This study demonstrates how consumer decisions, particularly in relation to price sensitivity, have a significant influence on CE adoption and therefore on global sustainability. An integrated planetary model representing the world through 15 ecological–industrial compartments is considered. The functioning of the model is governed by food web dynamics and a macro‐economic model. A circulation industry compartment recycles used products going to waste. The consumer price sensitivity for the circulated goods is captured by considering the consumers' cumulative CE participation (CCEP). Different CCEP patterns are studied for a variety of consumption increase rates. The results show that greater preference for circulated goods avoided system collapse, and corresponding CCEP patterns identify the sustainable zone (TSZ). A parametric study of combinations of CCEP patterns and consumption growth rates showed that with the higher consumption growth rate (four to six times linear increase of consumption over simulation horizon), the TSZ shrinks (50%). Moreover, at higher consumption growth rates, more economic incentives are required to obtain a similar ecosystem response. Finally, at a very high level of CE adoption, the overall population becomes less wealthy. Thus, preventing the consumption growth rather than promoting the CE through subsidies is more desirable from economic and ecological perspectives.
The value and contribution of intellectual disability nurses/nurses caring for people with intellectual disability in intellectual disability settings: A scoping review
Authors: Doody Owen , Hennessy Therese , Moloney Mairead , Lyons Rosemary , Bright Ann‐Marie
Published: March 2022

Background

People with intellectual disability experience poorer health and healthcare access issues. As a leading role in healthcare provision for people with intellectual disability nurses are key to supporting person‐centred care and health outcomes. However, little is known about specialist intellectual disability nursing and their contribution to care provision for people with intellectual disability.

Methods

A systematic scoping review. Searches of seven academic databases including MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Academic Search Complete, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science were conducted to identify relevant literature. Literature addressing intellectual disability nursing or nursing care for people with intellectual disability in intellectual disability centres/units/care homes were reviewed and reported as per PRISMA‐ScR checklist and PRISMA flow diagram.

Results

The published literature (n = 68) is extensive and describes the value and contribution of intellectual disability nursing across all domains of professional practice and supports a biopsychosocial‐educational approach to addressing the physical, mental and social needs of clients with intellectual disability across the care continuum of health management, health promotion and health education.

Conclusions

Despite the importance of the review question and the large volume of publication evidence detailing wide‐ranging professional nursing roles and responsibilities, there remains limited literature on the assessment and intervention strategies employed by intellectual disability nurses that highlight their specialist knowledge and skill. Future research should focus on making the role of the nurse more visible and presenting their unique contributions to client care, service delivery, policy and ultimately to the art and science of nursing.
Understanding Scientific Freedom and Scientific Responsibility in Business and Management Research
Authors: Tsui Anne S. , McKiernan Peter
Published: March 2022

To illuminate the nature of contemporary business and management research and to reinforce the principles of responsible research proposed by the social movement Responsible Research in Business and Management (RRBM), this article explores two critical elements of the scientific process: scientific freedom and scientific responsibility. We observe that in recent times, context and practice have weakened both of them. Path‐dependent processes in a closed research ecosystem have restricted scientific freedom. A ‘publish or perish’ culture has clouded scientific responsibility. We examine the definition of scientific freedom and assess how much freedom scientists can expect in current social conditions. We apply Schulz’s (1972) responsibility categories of (a) Who is responsible? (b) For what are they responsible? and (c) To whom are they responsible? to develop an expanded definition of scientific responsibility. Aligning high and low levels of freedom and responsibility, we identify four types of research, one of which fits RRBM’s definition of responsible research. We suggest a set of light and heavy actions in a humble attempt to shift the research ecosystem further towards responsible research, focusing on benefits to society. We conclude with a set of scientific norms to guide researchers who aspire to make their research more responsible and impactful.
The effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal species and taxonomic groups on stressed and unstressed plants: a global meta‐analysis
Authors: Marro Nicolás , Grilli Gabriel , Soteras Florencia , Caccia Milena , Longo Silvana , Cofré Noelia , Borda Valentina , Burni Magali , Janoušková Martina , Urcelay Carlos
Published: March 2022

The great majority of plants gain access to soil nutrients and enhance their performance under stressful conditions through symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The benefits that AMF confer vary among species and taxonomic groups. However, a comparative analysis of the different benefits among AMF has not yet been performed.

We conducted a global meta‐analysis of recent studies testing the benefits of individual AMF species and main taxonomic groups in terms of plant performance (growth and nutrition). Separately, we examined AMF benefits to plants facing biotic (pathogens, parasites, and herbivores) and abiotic (drought, salinity, and heavy metals) stress.

AMF had stronger positive effects on phosphorus nutrition than on plant growth and nitrogen nutrition and the effects on the growth of plants facing biotic and abiotic stresses were similarly positive. While the AMF taxonomic groups showed positive effects on plant performance either with or without stress, Diversisporales were the most beneficial to plants without stress and Gigasporales to plants facing biotic stress.

Our results provide a comprehensive analysis of the benefits of different AMF species and taxonomic groups on plant performance and useful insights for their management and use as bio‐inoculants for agriculture and restoration.
Comparison of the Effect of Rhombic and Inverted Triangle Configurations of Cannulated Screws on Internal Fixation of Nondisplaced Femoral Neck Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Zhu Jian , Deng Xiangtian , Hu Hongzhi , Cheng Xiaodong , Tan Zhanchao , Zhang Yingze
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate whether four‐screw fixation in rhombic configuration could improve the clinical outcomes and decrease the complication rate compared with three‐screw fixation in inverted triangle configuration in elderly patients with nondisplaced femoral neck fractures.

Method

From January 2018 to January 2019, 91 elderly patients with nondisplaced femoral neck fractures who were treated with a cannulated screw system were reviewed retrospectively. The inverted triangle configuration was applied in 51 patients and rhombic configuration in 40 patients. The demographic and perioperative information of the patients were extracted from medical records and surgical records. Variables including incision size, surgical blood loss, surgical time, fluoroscopy time, hospital stays, fracture union time, postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and complications were compared between the two groups. Also, Harris hip score at the final follow‐up was used to evaluate the functional outcomes.

Results

All patients were followed up from 24 to 36 months, with an average of 29.75 months. The average age of patients was 72.37 ± 7.16 years. No significant differences were found between the two groups with regard to patients' age, gender, affected side, Garden classification, Pauwels classification and comminution of posterior wall (P > 0.05). We found shorter incision size (P < 0.001), less blood loss (P = 0.020), less surgical time (P = 0.026), and shorter fluoroscopy time (P < 0.001) in inverted triangle configuration group. However, shorter hospital stays (P = 0.001) and fracture union time (P = 0.002) were found in the rhombic configuration group. The VAS scores were lower in the rhombic configuration group at the first (P < 0.001) and third months (P = 0.010), but no significant difference was found at the sixth month (P = 0.075). Meanwhile, the total complication rate was relatively lower in the rhombic configuration group compared to the inverted triangle configuration group (P = 0.041). Harris hip score presented no significant difference between the two groups at final follow‐up (P = 0.078). No wound infection or cortical perforation occurred in either group.

Conclusion

Four‐screw fixation in rhombic configuration was superior to three‐screw fixation in inverted triangle configuration in the treatment of nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients in terms of less early postsurgical pain, shorter fracture union time, and lower complication rate.
The importance of shoot morphological plasticity on plant coexistence: a pot experiment
Authors: Hermlin H. K. , Lepik M. , Zobel K.
Published: March 2022

Plant morphological plasticity affects species coexistence by enhancing local coexistence. Here, we test the importance of plasticity to light availability for species coexistence. We hypothesise that high average plasticity in a species assemblage promotes coexistence and tested for the effect of differential plasticity on the competitive success of neighbouring species.

Sixteen herbaceous species with known morphological plasticity were grown pairwise in 95 combinations in 285 pots. We calculated mean plasticity and difference of plasticity for each pair of species in a pot using previously estimated degree of plasticity in leaf number, leaf length, leaf area and SLA. We then related these to biomass‐based evenness of abundance in a pot and to competitive success of the 16 species.

Unexpectedly, average plasticity did not affect biomass production between coexisting species. Instead, large differences in plasticity among two competitive neighbours predicted low diversity (high degree of dominance) in an assemblage. Higher than neighbour plasticity generally predicted competitive superiority in an assemblage. The opposite was true for plasticity of SLA, where species with low plasticity tended to dominate.

Unlike earlier field studies, our results show that phenotypic plasticity in various plant traits pose opposite effects to interspecific competition. Subsequently, these effects possibly affect species composition and richness through which plasticity has significant consequences for plant communities and, therefore, should be accounted for in relevant studies in plant ecology.
Molecular identification and pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia solani and Pythium spp. associated with damping‐off disease on baby leafy vegetables in Greece
Authors: Tziros George T. , Karaoglanidis George S.
Published: March 2022

In the last years, leafy vegetables cultivated as baby leaves have been established in the market and have attracted the interest of consumers throughout the world. During the growing seasons of 2019 and 2020, 97 isolates of Rhizoctonia solani and 112 isolates of Pythium spp. were obtained from baby leaf vegetables exhibited damping‐off symptoms. Representative isolates of R. solani from each surveyed plant species were characterized using sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (rDNA‐ITS) region. Isolates were identified as belonging to four anastomosis groups (AGs): AG2‐1, AG‐IB, AG4‐HGI and AG4‐HGIII. AG4‐HGI was the most prevalent group and phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolates were distinctly separated according to their AGs. Pathogenicity among the four AGs on 23 plant species varied considerably, from not susceptible to highly susceptible, while, in general, AGs did not exhibit host specificity. Furthermore, a total of 112 Pythium spp. isolates were obtained. The ITS region and the cytochrome oxidase II (coxII) gene were amplified, and three Pythium spp. were identified (P. ultimum, P. aphanidermatum and P. sylvaticum), which were used further for maximum‐likelihood phylogenetic analysis. The pathogenicity of representative isolates was assessed in vitro and in vivo on 10 plant species. In general, all three tested Pythium spp. were virulent when used in vitro, while P. ultimum was the most virulent in vivo. This is the first comprehensive study aimed at determining the occurrence of specific R. solani AGs and Pythium spp. derived from baby leafy vegetables exhibiting damping‐off symptoms in Greece.
Governance choice misfit and firm performance in offshoring innovation: the role of institutional environment
Authors: Hong Jie , Massini Silvia , Edler Jakob
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we analyse the effect of institutional factors on the relationship between governance choices and business outcomes when offshoring innovation. Grounded in an institutional theory perspective, we use survey data from the ORN database to estimate regression models and identify governance modes related to specific drivers of offshore innovation. We then analyse the effect on firm performance of choosing a governance mode not in line with the one predicted by the model. We find that choosing a fully owned offshoring operation when theory would predict selecting offshore outsourcing has a negative effect on performance, but not vice versa. We also find that institutional factors of rule of law and IPR protection strength in host countries negatively affect firm performance when offshoring innovation activities.
Switching from high‐flux dialysis to hemodiafiltration: Cost‐consequences for patients, providers, and payers
Authors: Hornig Carsten , Apel Christian , Ficociello Linda H. , Kendzia Dana , Anger Michael , Bowry Sudhir K.
Published: March 2022

Hemodiafiltration (HDF) achieves a more efficient reduction of the uremic toxic load compared to standard high‐flux hemodialysis (HF‐HD) by virtue of the combined diffusive and convective clearances of a broad spectrum of uremic retention solutes. Clinical trials and registry data suggest that HDF improves patient outcomes. Despite the acknowledged need to improve survival rates of dialysis patients and the survival benefit HDF offers, there is little to no utilization in some countries (such as the US) in prescribing HDF to their patients. In this analysis, we present the healthcare value‐based case for HDF (relative to HF‐HD) from the patient, provider, and payor perspectives. The improved survival and reduced morbidity observed in studies conducted outside the US, as well as the reduced hospitalization, are attractive for each stakeholder. We also consider the potential barriers to greater utilization of HDF therapies, including unfounded concerns regarding additional costs of HDF, e.g., for the preparation and microbial testing of quality of substitution fluids. Ultrapure fluids are easily attainable and prepared from dialysis fluids using established “online“ (OL) technologies. OL‐HDF has matured to a level whereby little additional effort is required to safely implement it as all modern machine systems are today equipped with the OL‐HDF functionality. Countries already convinced of the advantages of HF‐HD are thus well positioned to make the transition to OL‐HDF to achieve further clinical and associated economic benefits. Healthcare systems struggling to cope with the increasing demand for HD therapies would therefore, like patients, be beneficiaries in the long term with increased usage of OL‐HDF for end stage kidney disease patients.
Contrasting behaviour of sand and mud in a long‐term sediment budget of the Western Scheldt estuary
Authors: Dam Gerard , van der Wegen Mick , Taal Marcel , van der Spek Ad
Published: March 2022

Understanding trends in estuarine sediment fluxes is of great interest to sustainable estuarine management addressing anthropogenic interferences and climate change. The long‐term sediment budget of the Western Scheldt estuary, Netherlands, is investigated by a detailed analysis of a unique and long‐term bathymetric data set and data of a three‐dimensional subsurface model (‘GeoTop’). Different sediment types show contrasting transport behaviour. The Western Scheldt narrowed and deepened, while the estuary exported sand (1.5 to 2.5 million m3 per year) and imported mud (0.5 to 1.5 million m3 per year) over the 1860 to 1955 period. The eroded sand originated from the channels in the seaward part of the estuary and was dispersed in all directions. A significant amount of mud permanently deposited in the side branches, which were also gradually reclaimed. These results suggest that sediment characteristics potentially play a crucial role in deriving long‐term sediment budgets and morphodynamic behaviour of estuarine environments. Future morphodynamic sand–mud model studies may reproduce and further explain the underlying transport processes of the current study.
Of kin and system: Rights of nature and the UN search for Earth jurisprudence
Authors: Schmidt Jeremy. J.
Published: March 2022

Since 2009, the United Nations programme on Harmony with Nature has sought a new philosophy of global environmental governance known as Earth jurisprudence. This paper examines how Harmony with Nature has advanced Earth jurisprudence to unite Indigenous legal traditions, rights of nature, and mounting evidence from Earth system science regarding anthropogenic forcing on the planet. It does so through a policy analysis of annual UN reports, resolutions, and dialogues with international experts. Situating Harmony with Nature in the broader intellectual heritage of Earth jurisprudence and contemporary efforts to address anthropogenic forcing on the Earth system in the Anthropocene, I argue that Harmony with Nature operates at the juncture of two powerful ways of ordering relations, knowledge, and obligation: kin and system. The critical analysis shows how a new geography of global environmental governance has been produced within the constraints of the UN precisely by scaling Indigenous kinship to the planetary diagnoses made by system‐based planetary sciences. The resulting form of Earth jurisprudence in Harmony with Nature holds important, cautionary lessons both for understanding how Indigenous legal traditions are made to comport with UN sustainable development programmes and for contemporary efforts to transform governance to meet the pressing demands of global environmental change.
Influence of screw head diameter on ex vivo fixation of equine lateral condylar fractures with 5.5 mm cortical screws
Authors: Constant Caroline , Zderic Ivan , Arens Daniel , Pugliese Brenna , Gehweiler Dominic , Gueorguiev‐Rüegg Boyko , Zeiter Stephan
Published: March 2022

Objective

To determine the influence of screw head diameter on equine condylar fracture fixation with 5.5 mm cortical screws.

Study design

Ex vivo, biomechanical study, blinded, matched‐pair design.

Sample population

Fifteen pairs of equine third metacarpal (MC3) bones.

Methods

Lateral condylar fractures were simulated by parasagittal osteotomies and repaired pairwise by 2 × 5.5 mm cortical screws of 8 mm (standard) or 10 mm (modified) head diameter. Interfragmentary compression at maximum screw insertion torque was measured. The instrumented specimens were pairwise stratified for biomechanical testing under the following modalities (n = 5): (1) screw insertion torque to failure, (2) quasi‐static axial load to failure, and (3) cyclic axial load to 2 mm displacement followed by failure. Tests (1) and (2) were analyzed for yield, maximum, and failure torque/angle and load/displacement, respectively. Number of cycles to 2 mm displacement and failure was assessed from test (3).

Results

Maximum insertion torque was greater, and failure angle smaller, when constructs repaired with modified screws were tested (8.1 ± 0.5 vs. 7.4 ± 0.5 Nm;P = .0047 and 550 ± 104 vs. 1130 ± 230;P = .008). Axial yield (7118 ± 707 vs. 5740 ± 2267 N;P = .043) and failure load (12 347 ± 3359 vs. 8695 ± 2277 N;P = .043) were greater for specimens repaired with modified screws. No difference was detected between constructs in the number of cycles to 2 mm displacement.

Conclusion

Condylar MC3 osteotomies repaired with modified 5.5 mm cortical screws sustained greater maximal hand torque insertion, smaller insertion failure angle and 1.4 fold greater quasi‐static failure forces than constructs repaired with standard 5.5 mm screws.

Clinical significance

Use of modified screws with larger heads may improve the fixation of condylar fractures in horses. These results provide evidence to justify clinical evaluation in horses undergoing fracture repair.
Laundry greywater treatment by anaerobic filters and vertical flow constructed wetlands
Authors: Punyapwar Swapnil , Mutnuri Srikanth
Published: March 2022

Laundry processes are huge water consumers and contribute to wastewaters in high volume. In the current report, treatment of greywater (GW) was studied from commercial laundry in BITS Pilani, KK Birla Goa Campus, India, which produces around 2–2.5 m3/day of GW. Source laundry GW showed physicochemical parameters like chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), ammoniacal N (NH4–N), nitrate (NO3–N), nitrite (NO2–N), orthophosphate (PO4–P) and pH in the range of 600–650 mg/L, 350–370 mg/L, 9–12 mg/L, 15–21 mg/L, 14–22 mg/L, 28–35 mg/L and 7.48–8.10, respectively. The treatment system included French‐type two‐stage vertical flow constructed wetland (VFCW) preceded by anaerobic filter tank filled with 3D plastic support. Wetland beds were made up of sand and gravel as filter media, and Canna indica was used as macrophyte. Pretreatment by anaerobic filter resulted in the increase in residence time of GW and reduction of pollutant load to wetland beds, thus preventing clogging of Stage 1 wetland. Sampling and water quality data analysis was performed weekly for 26 weeks. Outlet pollutant levels showed 96.35% removal of organic matter, 79.93% removal of nitrogen and 95.04% removal of orthophosphates. The pH of outlet water was 7.35, which is well below discharge permissible limits. Treated water quality was below Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India, permissible limits for discharge, and the cost of treating GW by the system is 1.11 USD/m3 which is very feasible in country like India. Treated water is suitable for nonpotable options like gardening of central lawns in BITS Pilani Goa, floor cleaning of laundry and construction purpose.
Multivariate regression studies for investigating and setting the action levels for the system water quality parameters of a nuclear plant
Authors: Parasuraman Suganya , Ganapathiraman Swaminathan , Bhargavan Anoop
Published: March 2022

A broad spectrum of water quality parameters is regularly monitored and assessed in auxiliary water systems. The integrity and availability status of a system are ensured by observing the trend of water quality indices which further warrants investigating the regulatory requirements of both safety and non‐safety‐related systems of a nuclear power plant. To evaluate the water chemistry state in a raw water system, we conducted a statistical study investigating water quality indices over 3 years. Obligatory statistical tools were utilized to comprehend and correlate the effects of the source water on the system. Most water quality parameters were found to be within an acceptable range, and correlations were found between the parameters, namely, conductivity, sodium, and chloride. Multivariate optimization and regression studies using the Box–Behnken design were conducted to minimize the system conductivity levels. The experimental data were fitted into a quadratic equation with an r2 value of 0.84. Model validation was conducted, and the fit between the experimental and model results was within 10%. This assessment identifies preventive action levels to avoid impairment of system integrity at an early stage.
Reflection and transmission of coupled elastic waves by a semiconduction interlayer with consideration of photothermal effects
Authors: Zhao Lina , Wei Peijun , Huang Mengsi , Xu Yuqian
Published: March 2022

The wave propagation problem through an inhomogeneous semiconduction slab sandwiched between two thermoelastic half-spaces is studied in this paper. Due to the photothermal effects and photoacoustic effects, the multiple physical fields coupled waves are generated in the semiconduction interlayer. For the inhomogenous semiconduction slab of finite thickness, the multiple physical fields coupled waves cannot be expressed explicitly. Instead, the state vector is defined, and the state transfer equation is derived to obtain the transfer matrix of the inhomogeneous slab. The reflection and transmission coefficients as well as the dissipation energy are estimated. The influences of the photothermal effects and photoacoustic effects are discussed based on the numerical results. It is found that the photothermal effects and photoacoustic effects result in some different vibration modes and associated propagation modes. The gradient profiles of the inhomogeneous interlayer have complicated influences on the reflection and transmission behaviors and can be well-designed to adjust the propagation behavior.
Absorption and scattering by perforated facings with periodic narrow slits
Authors: Brunskog Jonas , Glebe Dag , Garza-Agudelo Diana , Nilsson Erling
Published: March 2022

This paper develops a theory for the sound absorption and scattering of perforated slit absorbers. A rigid plane, perforated periodically in one dimension with absorbing slits, scatters incoming sound waves as discrete wave components in different directions. The absorbing slits are assumed to be line-like in the sense that their width is much shorter than the wavelengths. The equation for the sound field is solved in the wavenumber domain. The slits are described with an impedance description, assuming local reaction of the slits (typically a Helmholtz resonator). The solution is found by means of an inverse transform, back to the spatial domain. This results in an explicit formulation of the sound field, including a sum consisting of components that either radiate energy in discrete directions or are surface waves. A similar sum is also included in a term that can be interpreted as radiation impedance. The explicit expressions for the absorption and scattering coefficients are found with the aid of the radiating part of the scattered and reflected field. Numerical results of the absorption and scattering coefficients are presented. The result is verified with finite element method and compared with the result from an alternative general formulation of the problem.
A finite element model to predict the double hearing protector effect on an in-house acoustic test fixture
Authors: Luan Yu , Sgard Franck , Nélisse Hugues , Doutres Olivier
Published: March 2022

The sound attenuation of double hearing protectors (DHPs), earplugs combined with earmuffs, generally falls short of the sum of each single protector's attenuation when used independently. This phenomenon, referred to as the DHP effect, is found to be related to structure-borne sound transmission involving the outer ear and can also be observed on acoustic test fixtures (ATFs). At present, it still remains not fully understood, and no available model can help demonstrate the associated sound transmission mechanisms. In this work, a finite element model is proposed to study the DHP effect on an ATF between 100 Hz and 5 kHz. Power balances are calculated with selected configurations of the ATF in order to (i) quantify the contribution of each sound path, and study the effects of (ii) the artificial skin and (iii) acoustic excitation on the ATF exterior boundaries. The DHP effect is shown to originate from the structure-borne sound power injected from the ATF boundaries and/or earmuff cushion. The important influence of earcanal wall vibration is highlighted when the skin is accounted for. The simulation results allow for gaining more insight into the sound transmission through a DHP/ATF system.
Responses to a 5-Day Sport-Specific Heat Acclimatization Camp in Elite Female Rugby Sevens Athletes
Authors: Henderson Mitchell J. , Chrismas Bryna C.R. , Fransen Job , Coutts Aaron J. , Taylor Lee
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To describe the physiological (resting core temperature, exercising heart rate, and sweat rate) and psychophysical (rating of perceived exertion, thermal sensation, and thermal comfort) responses to a short-term heat acclimatization (HA) training camp in elite female rugby sevens athletes. Methods: Nineteen professional female rugby sevens athletes participated in a 5-day HA camp in Darwin, Australia (training average: 32.2°C and 58% relative humidity). Training involved normal team practice prescribed by appropriate staff. Markers of physiological and psychophysical adaptations to HA were collected at various stages during the camp. Partial eta-squared effect sizes (from linear mixed-effects models), rank-biserial correlations (from Freidman tests), and P values were used to assess changes across the protocol. Results: Resting core temperature did not significantly change. Exercising heart rate showed a large and significant reduction from day 1 to day 5 (175 [13] vs 171 [12] beats·min−1), as did sweat rate (1.1 [0.3] vs 1.0 [0.2] L·h–1). Thermal sensation showed a large and significant reduction between day 1 and day 5 (median [interquartile range] = 5 [5–5.5] vs 4.5 [4–5]). Changes in rating of perceived exertion and thermal comfort were unclear. Conclusions: Beneficial cardiovascular adaptations were observed simultaneously across a full squad of elite female rugby sevens players (without expensive facilities/equipment or modifying training content). However, beneficial changes in resting core temperature, sweat rate, and thermal/effort perceptions likely require a greater thermal impulse. These data contribute to the development of evidence-informed practice for minimal effective HA doses in female team-sport athletes, who are underrepresented in the current research.
Supplemental Material: Apparent preservation of primary foraminiferal Mg/Ca ratios and Mg-banding in recrystallized foraminifera
Authors: Staudigel Philip T. , al. et
Published: March 2022

Supplemental methods, discussion, tables, and figures.
Supplemental Material: From Ordovician nascent to early Permian mature arc in the southern Altaids: Insights from the Kalatage inlier in the Eastern Tianshan, NW China
Authors: Mao Q.G. , al. et , Xiao W.J.
Published: March 2022

Zircon SIMS, LA-ICP-MS, and SHRIMP U-Pb geochronological dating, major, and trace element data (listed in Supplemental Tables S1 to S5, respectively).
Autophagy and the Energy Status of Plant Cells
Authors: Tyutereva E. V. , Murtuzova A. V. , Voitsekhovskaja O. V.
Published: March 2022

In plant cells the homeostatic control of energy balance involves the production and recycling of adenylates with macroergic bonds, ATP and ADP. The maintenance of anabolic processes requires the relative saturation of the adenylate pool with high energy phosphoanhydride bonds. The bulk of ATP synthesis is carried out both in mitochondria and in chloroplasts while optimal ATP levels within other cell compartments are maintained by adenylate kinases (AK). AK activity was recently found in cytosol, mitochondria, plastids and the nucleus. ATP synthesis in energy-producing organelles, as well as redistribution of nutrients among cellular compartments, requires fine-tuned regulation of ion homeostasis. A special role in energy metabolism is played by autophagy, a process of active degradation of unwanted and/or damaged cell components and macromolecules within the central lytic vacuole. So-called constitutive autophagy controls the quality of cellular contents under favorable conditions, i.e., when the cellular energy status is high. Energy depletion can lead to the activation of the pro-survival process of autophagic removal and utilization of damaged structures; the breakdown products are then used for ATP regeneration and de novo synthesis of macromolecules. Mitophagy and chlorophagy maintain the populations of healthy and functional energy-producing “stations”, preventing accumulation of defective mitochondria and chloroplasts as potential sources of dangerous reactive oxygen species. However, the increase of autophagic flux above a threshold level can lead to the execution of the vacuolar type of programmed cell death (PCD). In this case autophagy also contributes to preservation of energy through support of the outflow of nutrients from dying cells to healthy neighboring tissues. In plants, two central protein kinases, SnRK1 (Snf1-related protein kinase 1) and TOR (target of rapamycin), are responsible for the regulation of the metabolic switch between anabolic and catabolic pathways. TOR promotes the energy-demanding metabolic reactions in response to nutrient availability and simultaneously suppresses catabolism including autophagy. SnRK1, the antagonist of TOR, senses a decline in cellular energy supply and reacts by inducing autophagy through several independent pathways. Here, we provide an overview of the recent knowledge about the interplay between SnRK1 and TOR, autophagy and PCD in course of the regulation of energy balance in plants.
Disseminated cysticercosis: a case report and review of treatment protocols
Authors: Dabas Smriti , Gupta Vipin , Narula Anurag
Published: March 2022

Cysticercosis is caused by the larvae ofTaenia soliumand is a significant health problem. Disseminated cysticercosis is an infrequent manifestation of the same. A woman in her 30s presented to us with a history of seizures, outward protrusion of both eyes and multiple soft-tissue swellings over the face and tongue for 3 years. Imaging studies revealed multiple cystic lesions in the brain parenchyma, extraocular muscles, subcutaneous tissue, muscles of mastication and tongue. A high index of suspicion and a planned therapeutic approach is required in such cases.
Cardiac tamponade due to perforation of aRoseomonas mucosapyogenic hepatic abscess as initial presentation of hepatoid carcinoma
Authors: Spindel Jeffrey , Grigorov Mladen , Baker Molly , Marsano Luis
Published: March 2022

Hepatic abscesses can rarely cause pericardial disease by erosion into the pericardial space and present with haemodynamic instability due cardiac tamponade. While rare, these dramatic presentations are more often due to amoebic abscesses than bacterial abscesses. Importantly, a cause must be found for any cryptogenic hepatic abscess regardless of presentation, as there is a high association with underlying malignancy. We report a previously healthy man in his 30s who presented with cardiac tamponade from perforation of aRoseomonas mucosapyogenic hepatic abscess into the pericardium in the absence of bacteremia and biliary disease. One year later, he was found to have diffusely metastatic hepatoid carcinoma.
Results of a pilot feasibility randomised controlled trial exploring the use of an electronic patient-reported outcome measure in the management of UK patients with advanced chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kyte Derek , Anderson Nicola , Bishop Jon , Bissell Andrew , Brettell Elizabeth , Calvert Melanie , Chadburn Marie , Cockwell Paul , Dutton Mary , Eddington Helen , Forster Elliot , Hadley Gabby , Ives Natalie J , Jackson Louise J , O'Brien Sonia , Price Gary , Sharpe Keeley , Stringer Stephanie , Verdi Rav , Waters Judi , Wilcockson Adrian
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The use of routine remote follow-up of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing exponentially. It has been suggested that online electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) could be used in parallel, to facilitate real-time symptom monitoring aimed at improving outcomes. We tested the feasibility of this approach in a pilot trial of ePROM symptom monitoring versus usual care in patients with advanced CKD not on dialysis.

Design

A 12-month, parallel, pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) and qualitative substudy.

Setting and participants

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, UK. Adult patients with advanced CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥6 and ≤15 mL/min/1.73 m2, or a projected risk of progression to kidney failure within 2 years ≥20%).

Intervention

Monthly online ePROM symptom reporting, including automated feedback of tailored self-management advice and triggered clinical notifications in the advent of severe symptoms. Real-time ePROM data were made available to the clinical team via the electronic medical record.

Outcomes

Feasibility (recruitment and retention rates, and acceptability/adherence to the ePROM intervention). Health-related quality of life, clinical data (eg, measures of kidney function, kidney failure, hospitalisation, death) and healthcare utilisation.

Results

52 patients were randomised (31% of approached). Case report form returns were high (99.5%), as was retention (96%). Overall, 73% of expected ePROM questionnaires were received. Intervention adherence was high beyond 90 days (74%) and 180 days (65%); but dropped beyond 270 days (46%). Qualitative interviews supported proof of concept and intervention acceptability, but highlighted necessary changes aimed at enhancing overall functionality/scalability of the ePROM system.

Limitations

Small sample size.

Conclusions

This pilot trial demonstrates that patients are willing to be randomised to a trial assessing ePROM symptom monitoring. The intervention was considered acceptable; though measures to improve longer-term engagement are needed. A full-scale RCT is considered feasible.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN12669006and the UK NIHR Portfolio (CPMS ID: 36497).