bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Numerical Weather Prediction–Based Near-Cloud Aviation Turbulence Forecasts by Diagnosing Convective Gravity Wave Breaking
Authors: Kim Soo-Hyun , Chun Hye-Yeong , Lee Dan-Bi , Kim Jung-Hoon , Sharman Robert D.
Published: July 2021

Based on a convective gravity wave drag parameterization scheme in a numerical weather prediction (NWP) model, previously proposed near-cloud turbulence (NCT) diagnostics for better detecting turbulence near convection are tested and evaluated by using global in situ flight data and outputs from the operational global NWP model of the Korea Meteorological Administration for one year (from December 2016 to November 2017). For comparison, 11 widely used clear air turbulence (CAT) diagnostics currently used in operational NWP-based aviation turbulence forecasting systems are separately computed. For selected cases, NCT diagnostics predict more accurately localized turbulence events over convective regions with better intensity, which is clearly distinguished from the turbulence areas diagnosed by conventional CAT diagnostics that they mostly failed to forecast with broad areas and low magnitudes. Although overall performance of NCT diagnostics for one whole year is lower than conventional CAT diagnostics due to the fact that NCT diagnostics exclusively focus on the isolated NCT events, adding the NCT diagnostics to CAT diagnostics improves the performance of aviation turbulence forecasting. Especially in the summertime, performance in terms of an area under the curve (AUC) based on probability of detection statistics is the best (AUC = 0.837 with a 4% increase, compared to conventional CAT forecasts) when the mean of all CAT and NCT diagnostics is used, while performance in terms of root-mean-square error is the best when the maximum among combined CAT and single NCT diagnostic is used. This implies that including NCT diagnostics to currently used NWP-based aviation turbulence forecasting systems should be beneficial for safety of air travel.
Using a Serious Digital Game to Communicate Drought Risk in Singapore: An Experimental Study
Authors: Ong Corinne , Araral Eduardo
Published: July 2021

This experimental study tested the effects of digital tactical messaging on 189 undergraduates’ drought risk responsiveness using a mobile serious game. In the game’s virtual household environment, treatment groups were exposed to message framings informed by risk psychological theories. Drought risk responsiveness was indicated by participants’ in-game water consumption levels. The first intervention entailed treatment groups receiving advisories about an impending drought whose magnitude and likelihood varied for different groups. Next, groups would either receive a message reinforcing the efficacy, or social acceptability, of conserving and rationing water during a drought condition. Lastly, groups received a message about a water rationing exercise that they could participate in. Factorial analyses showed that knowing the severity and likelihood of an impending drought did not affect drought risk responsiveness. However, norms- and efficacy-framed messages, as well as rationing exercises, influenced risk responsiveness. The study is expected to be instructive to policymakers and practitioners interested in digitally communicating drought risk and adaptation to the public.
Low-velocity impact behavior of incorporated GFRP composites with nanoclay and nanosilica in a corrosive environment: Experimental and numerical study
Authors: Gitiara Yasaman , Barbaz-Isfahani Reza , Saber-Samandari Saeed , Sadighi Mojtaba
Published: July 2021

Investigation and analysis of the dynamic behavior of composite materials and their failure resistance are essential. The main aim of this study is to investigate the improvement of impact properties of incorporated glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite specimens with various loading of nanoclay and nanosilica in a corrosive environment. After fabrication of samples by hand layup method, all of them were immersed in 5 wt. % of sulfuric acid solution for 0, 1 and 3 months. As the immersion time increased, the specimens containing nanosilica absorbed more water than the other samples. The force-displacement, force-time and energy-time diagrams showed the superiority of filled composites with nanoparticles over the pure sample in all immersion periods. Low-velocity impact (LVI) test results of specimens containing nanoclay showed a better behavior and with the addition of 5 wt. % of nanoclay, the impact force increased by 15.72% and the displacement decreased by 5.26%. Also, in these samples, the energy absorption rate decreased by 17.15%, which was associated with a reduction in the damage rate. After immersion of specimens in different times, specimens containing 5 wt. % of nanoclay had better strength than other samples and maintained their superior properties. The obtained results illustrated that the addition of 1 and 3 wt. % of nanosilica had no specific effect on the improvement of impact properties. Finally, incorporated GPRP composites with 3 wt. % of nanoparticles were simulated using LS-DYNA software and the experimental and numerical results were compared to investigate their accordance.
Graphene Nanocoating: High Quality and Stability upon Several Stressors
Authors: Rosa V. , Malhotra R. , Agarwalla S.V. , Morin J.L.P. , Luong-Van E.K. , Han Y.M. , Chew R.J.J. , Seneviratne C.J. , Silikas N. , Tan K.S. , Nijhuis C.A. , Castro Neto A.H.
Published: July 2021

Titanium implants present 2 major drawbacks—namely, the long time needed for osseointegration and the lack of inherent antimicrobial properties. Surface modifications and coatings to improve biomaterials can lose their integrity and biological potential when exposed to stressful microenvironments. Graphene nanocoating (GN) can be deposited onto actual-size dental and orthopedic implants. It has antiadhesive properties and can enhance bone formation in vivo. However, its ability to maintain structural integrity and quality when challenged by biologically relevant stresses remains largely unknown. GN was produced by chemical vapor deposition and transferred to titanium via a polymer-assisted transfer technique. GN has high inertness and did not increase expression of inflammatory markers by macrophages, even in the presence of lipopolysaccharides. It kept high coverage at the top tercile of tapered dental implant collars after installation and removal from bone substitute and pig maxilla. It also resisted microbiologically influenced corrosion, and it maintained very high coverage area and quality after prolonged exposure to biofilms and their removal by different techniques. Our findings show that GN is unresponsive to harsh and inflammatory environments and that it maintains a promising level of structural integrity on the top tercile of dental implant collars, which is the area highly affected by biofilms during the onset of implant diseases. Our findings open the avenues for the clinical studies required for the use of GN in the development of implants that have higher osteogenic potential and are less prone to implant diseases.
Redressing a Straw Man: Correcting Critical Misunderstandings of Aldous Huxley’s Perennial Philosophy
Authors: Sawyer Dana W.
Published: July 2021

This essay reinvigorates the Huxley/Osmond theory that psychedelic drugs can occasion a cross-cultural mystical experience characterized by a sense of “unity with ultimate reality.” It offers a long-overdue rejoinder to the position of Constructivist authors such as Steven T. Katz, Hans Penner, and Stephen Prothero that Aldous Huxley’s Perennial Philosophy is a defunct position. Specifically, the essay answers three erroneous charges: (1) that Huxley posited his viewpoint as the “core” or “essence” of religion, (2) that Huxley believed he was describing a set of universally shared religious beliefs, and (3) that Huxley’s position depends on a belief in—and the possibility of—a state of “pure consciousness.” In all cases, these charges will be shown to be erroneous. Moreover, it will also be argued that these claims are inaccurate for most forms of the Perennial Philosophy, and that the Perennial Philosophy is not a homogenous viewpoint, but rather a family of theories as are Existentialism, Postmodernism, and Idealism. The essay ends with a look at new directions for testing the Huxley/Osmond position, including with psychedelic drugs.
Compressor fault diagnosis system based on PCA-PSO-LSSVM algorithm
Authors: Zhang Kun , Su Jinpeng , Sun Shaoan , Liu Zhixiang , Wang Jinrui , Du Mingchao , Liu Zengkai , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2021

On the basis of the principal components analysis-particle swarm optimization-least squares support vector machine (PCA-PSO-LSSVM) algorithm, a fault diagnosis system is proposed for the compressor system. The relationship between the working principle of a compressor system, the fault phenomenon, and the root cause is analyzed. A fault diagnosis model is established based on the LSSVM optimized using PSO, the compressor fault diagnosis test experimental platform is used to obtain the fault signal of various fault occurrence states, and the PCA algorithm is employed to extract the characteristic data in the fault signal as input to the fault diagnosis model. The back-propagation neural network, the LSSVM algorithm, and the PSO-LSSVM algorithm are analyzed and compared with the proposed fault diagnosis model. Results show that the PCA-PSO-LSSVM fault diagnosis model has a maximum fault recognition efficiency that is 10.4% higher than the other three models, the test sample classification time is reduced by 0.025 s, the PCA algorithm can effectively reduce the input dimension, and the PSO-LSSVM fault diagnosis model based on the PCA algorithm for extracting features has a high recognition rate and accuracy. Therefore, the proposed fault diagnosis system can effectively identify the compressor fault and improve the efficiency of the compressor.
Horror as a Pedagogical Tool for Teaching Sexualities
Authors: Hartless Jaime
Published: July 2021

Teaching about sexualities and the LGBTQ+ movement today is full of pitfalls and possibilities. While growing acceptance of at least some segments of the LGBTQ+ community means students are more open to talking about these issues than ever before, two serious barriers remain: (1) The rise of Trump has empowered antagonistic students to utilize the tools of the neoliberal university to retaliate against sexualities instructors, and (2) even more-accepting students often struggle to have nuanced conversations about sexualities that acknowledge diversity and are not ahistorical. Horror can be used to overcome these barriers, illustrating the extent of LGBTQ+ marginalization for more-resistant students while helping others see that sexuality is socially constructed and historically mediated. This article will begin with a theoretical overview of how the horror genre illustrates changing social attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community and highlights the challenges faced by diverse identities under the umbrella before ending with practical suggestions for incorporating these lessons into the classroom.
Amplification of Positivity Therapy for Co-occurring Alcohol Use Disorder with Depression and Anxiety Symptoms: Pilot Feasibility Study and Case Series
Authors: Akeman Elisabeth , White Evan , Wolitzky-Taylor Kate , Santiago Jessica , McDermott Timothy J. , DeVille Danielle C. , Stewart Jennifer L. , Paulus Martin , Taylor Charles T. , Aupperle Robin L.
Published: July 2021

Positive valence system dysregulation is a relatively unexplored transdiagnostic mechanism and potential treatment target underpinning alcohol use and anxiety and depression symptoms. The current study examined the feasibility and potential benefit of a behavioral intervention focused on amplification of positivity (AMP) with eight adults (five female) diagnosed with alcohol use disorder and clinically significant depression or anxiety (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04278365). AMP for alcohol use (AMP-A) was delivered in 11 individual sessions involving positive activity interventions integrated alongside psychoeducation and alcohol use monitoring. Case descriptions are provided to illustrate treatment implementation. Treatment credibility and acceptability, participant endorsement of the therapy, and homework compliance were rated moderate to high. Exploratory, intent-to-treat analyses suggested medium to large effect sizes for post-treatment improvements in alcohol use, depression, anxiety, and positive affect. Results provide initial evidence of feasibility and acceptability of AMP-A and will be useful for informing future randomized clinical trials to examine clinical efficacy.
Physical Activity Among Parents of Children With Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ku Byungmo , Sung Ming-Chih
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the present systematic review was to synthesize the existing research on physical activity behaviors in parents of children with disabilities. For the systematic search, search terms were entered into three electronic databases. After systematic evaluations, 12 studies were included in the present systematic review. Using the physical activity guidelines (i.e., 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week), the 12 studies were divided into three categories: active, not active, and unknown. The active category included two studies (16.7%) indicating that parents of children with disabilities meet the physical activity guidelines. The not active category included seven studies (50%) indicating that parents of children with disabilities do not meet the physical activity guidelines. More research is needed to determine physical activity behaviors in parents of children with disabilities.
Extrasinus Complications From Odontogenic Sinusitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Craig John R. , Cheema Atif J. , Dunn Raven T. , Vemuri Swapna , Peterson Edward L.
Published: July 2021

Objective

Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) can cause infectious orbital, intracranial, and osseous complications. Diagnosis and management of complicated ODS have not been discussed in recent sinusitis guidelines. The purpose of this systematic review was to describe epidemiological and clinical features, as well as management strategies of complicated ODS.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

A systematic review was performed to describe various features of complicated ODS. All complicated ODS studies were included in qualitative analysis, but studies were only included in quantitative analysis if they reported specific patient‐level data.

Results

Of 1126 studies identified, 75 studies with 110 complicated ODS cases were included in qualitative analysis, and 47 studies with 62 orbital and intracranial complications were included in quantitative analyses. About 70% of complicated ODS cases were orbital complications. Only 23% of complicated ODS studies were published in otolaryngology journals. Regarding ODS‐related orbital and intracranial complications, about 80% occurred in adults, and 75% were male. Complicated ODS occurred most commonly from apical periodontitis of maxillary molars. There were no relationships between sinusitis extent and orbital or intracranial complications. High rates of anaerobic and α‐hemolytic streptococcal bacteria were identified in complicated ODS. Management generally included systemic antibiotics covering aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, and surgical interventions were generally performed to address both the complications (orbital and/or intracranial) and possible infectious sources (dentition and sinuses).

Conclusion

ODS should be considered in all patients with infectious extrasinus complications. Multidisciplinary management between otolaryngologists, dental specialists, ophthalmologists, and neurosurgeons should be considered to optimize outcomes.
Concentric vs Anteroposterior‐Laterolateral Collapse of the Soft Palate in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Van de Perck Eli , Heiser Clemens , Vanderveken Olivier M
Published: July 2021

The presence of complete concentric collapse of the soft palate (CCCp) during drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) has important therapeutic consequences. However, CCCp may present in various, sometimes doubtful, ways due to the complex anatomy of the upper airway. Herein, we aimed to characterize these doubtful variants by reviewing the DISE recordings of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (n = 332). We observed in some individuals that the soft palate collapsed in an anteroposterior‐laterolateral (AP‐LL) way, producing a polygonal shape that was distinct from CCCp. Patients with this collapse pattern (n = 29) had a smaller neck circumference and less severe obstructive sleep apnea than patients with CCCp (n = 68). The majority of patients with AP‐LL collapse (n = 19) were originally diagnosed with CCCp. Based on these findings, AP‐LL collapse of the soft palate might represent a distinct DISE phenotype that is easily confounded with CCCp.
Association of Trismus With Quality of Life and Swallowing in Survivors of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Jia Zeyao , Li Jinhong , Harrison Christine , Pawlowicz Elizabeth , Clump David Anthony , Wasserman‐Wincko Tamara , Moore Kelly , Johnson Jonas T. , Nilsen Marci Lee
Published: July 2021

Objective

We aim to (1) determine the prevalence and predictors of trismus and (2) examine the relationship of trismus, swallowing dysfunction, and quality of life (QOL) in survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Multidisciplinary HNC survivorship clinic.

Methods

Data on trismus and patient‐reported outcomes were obtained from survivors of HNC between December 2016 and October 2019. Trismus was defined as a maximum interincisal opening ≤35 mm. QOL and swallowing dysfunction were measured with the University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire and EAT‐10 (Eating Assessment Tool–10), respectively. Linear regressions were applied to investigate the relationship of trismus with QOL and swallowing dysfunction.

Results

Of the 237 survivors, 22.78% (n = 54) had trismus. Advanced stage of cancer (stage III/IV vs Tis‐II, P =. 002) and treatment (nonsurgical and surgery + adjuvant treatment vs surgery only, P =. 006) were correlated with a higher prevalence of trismus. After controlling for cancer stage and treatment type, EAT‐10 scores for survivors with trismus were 9.342 (95% CI, 6.262‐12.423; P <. 0001) higher than those without trismus. The University of Washington Quality of Life Physical and Social‐Emotional subscales for patients with trismus were 14.088 (95% CI, 9.042‐19.134; P <. 0001) and 10.470 (95% CI, 4.793‐16.147; P =. 0003) lower than those without trismus, respectively.

Conclusion

Trismus is a common, treatment‐related consequence and is associated with increased symptoms of dysphagia and decreased QOL. Early detection and management of trismus in survivors of HNC are essential to optimize QOL and reduce morbidity.
Trusting the Corona-Warn-App? Contemplations on trust and trustworthiness at the intersection of technology, politics and public debate
Authors: Simon Judith , Rieder Gernot
Published: July 2021

Ever since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, questions of whom or what to trust have become paramount. This article examines the public debates surrounding the initial development of the German Corona-Warn-App in 2020 as a case study to analyse such questions at the intersection of trust and trustworthiness in technology development, design and oversight. Providing some insights into the nature and dynamics of trust and trustworthiness, we argue that (a) trust is only desirable and justified if placed well, that is, if directed at those being trustworthy; that (b) trust and trustworthiness come in degrees and have both epistemic and moral components; and that (c) such a normatively demanding understanding of trust excludes technologies as proper objects of trust and requires that trust is directed at socio-technical assemblages consisting of both humans and artefacts. We conclude with some lessons learned from our case study, highlighting the epistemic and moral demands for trustworthy technology development as well as for public debates about such technologies, which ultimately requires attributing epistemic and moral duties to all actors involved.
Signaling pathways associated with structural changes in varicose veins: a case–control study
Authors: Modaghegh Mohamad Hadi Saeed , Saberianpour Shirin , Amoueian Sakineh , Kamyar Mohammad Mahdi
Published: July 2021

Introduction and objectives

In varicose veins, blood pressure increases in the veins of the lower extremities due to mechanical stimulation and function remodeling. The aim of this study is assessment of Signaling pathways associated with structural changes in varicose veins.

Materials and methods

This pilot study was performed on patients with varicose veins, which had undergone surgery. The healthy tissues from trauma patients or vascular bypass without underlying diseases were used for control samples. Hematoxylin-eosin, trichrome, and elastin staining were used for histopathological examination. The levels of MDA (malondialdehyde), total thiol, SOD (Superoxide dismutase) and NO (nitric oxide) level were measured using Elisa kits to evaluate the oxidative stress level. Gene expression levels of MMP2, MMP9, FOXO3a, APOE and p53 genes were determined using Real-time PCR.

Results

This study showed, the vascular Vein wall changes are visible in vascular collagen staining. Although these changes are observed in the structure of vascular wall collagen fibers, the accumulation of collagen and elastin was increased in the walls of varicose veins compared to the control group. The amount of nitric oxide and thiol were increased in the varicose group (P < 0.0001). The expression of metalloproteinase2 gene associated with extracellular matrix change was increased in varicose veins. However, the amount of metalloproteinase 9 was decreased in this group compared to control group. FOXO3a, APOE Genes were down-regulated in the varicose veins compared to control group, while p53 gene expression was significantly increased in the varicose group (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated changes in oxidative stress, morphological structure, and aging pathways in varicose when compared to non-varicose veins. The changes in oxidative stress may be associated with the variations in morphological structure and aging pathways which contribute to the pathogenesis of varicose veins.
Judging extreme forgivers: How victims are perceived when they forgive the unforgivable
Authors: Eaton Judy , Olenewa Jenniffer , Norton Cole
Published: July 2021

When one individual commits a transgression or aggressive act against another, third parties often have expectations about how the victim should respond, even when they do not have any personal involvement in the event. When their justice expectations are violated, such as when a victim forgives the offender for an act that third parties deem too heinous to forgive, third parties may react in a way that is critical of the victim. This research examines how third-party observers react when victims forgive seemingly ‘unforgivable’ offences. Study 1, a scenario-based experiment, showed that although third parties were not directly critical of a forgiving victim, they did not agree with the decision to forgive. Study 2 replicated these findings and explored in more depth third parties’ justice-related feelings about the transgression and the victim, using both quantitative and qualitative data. Results suggest that although third parties are reluctant to directly criticize ‘extreme’ forgivers, they are not supportive of their decision to forgive. This could have implications for victims, who may interpret this disagreement with their choice as a lack of support.
Three Papyrus Sheaths of Priestesses of Amun
Authors: Enany Abir
Published: July 2021

During the Twenty-First Dynasty, funerary customs of the priesthood of Amun in Thebes were relatively altered due to the socio-political and economic circumstances of that period. The quest for security compelled the priests to use hidden collective tombs with no decorations or inscriptions other than those written on funerary objects. Of these are three papyrus sheaths that once belonged to three priestesses of Amun. Those formerly unpublished statuettes have been particularly intriguing as they were found within the priestesses’ burials in two collective tombs of Deir el-Bahari - the Royal Cache (DB 320), and Bab el-Gusus - and hence belong to a class of objects that has not been sufficiently investigated.
Ethical product havens in the global diamond trade: Using the Wayback Machine to evaluate ethical market outcomes
Authors: Hamilton Trina , Cavello Seth
Published: July 2021

Who benefits from ethical product markets? While most ethical products (e.g. fair trade and eco-certified products) are intended to benefit marginalized communities and vulnerable ecosystems, the reality is that the geographic preferences exhibited by so-called ethical markets may, in fact, reinforce global inequities rather than remedy them. It can be difficult to evaluate the outcomes of ethical product markets, however, because we are often limited to data from a small number of industries with widely used standards and certifications. This research pilots a new methodology, using an online archive—the Wayback Machine, to evaluate shifts in countries' ethical market share, focusing on the evolution of the ethical diamond market over the past 20 years. The ethical diamond market is an interesting case because it began specifically as a competition among countries of origin, with Canadian officials and diamond producers trading on Canada's reputation to position Canada as an ethical product haven in opposition to conflict diamonds from Africa. Yet, Canada's early ethical monopoly has been contested on multiple fronts, and this article focuses on the following questions: To what extent has the contestation over Canada's ethical monopoly actually changed the ethical diamond market? Specifically, how much market share have different ethical alternatives gained and lost over time? And, what does this tell us about the governance and development outcomes of the market? The results show that while the market has diversified over time, it is still largely not benefiting the most marginalized diamond producing countries and communities.
Urban geography 1: ‘Big tech’ and the reshaping of urban space
Authors: McNeill Donald
Published: July 2021

This report draws on the burgeoning geography literature on ‘big tech’ and how scholars have responded to its spatial impacts. First, it traces the revival in locational geographies and the role of global platform firms in shaping urban market geographies; second, it traces work on the urban governance and regulatory challenges posed by different types of capital; and technology entrepreneurship and start-up firms; third, it identifies work that has traced the impact of apps and platforms on the conduct of urban life, from delivery drivers to taxis to dating to real estate rental.
A modern perspective on Meinecke’s 1929 assessment of tourist impacts on redwoods
Authors: Martin Ross H , Hodge Joshua B , Whitesides Clayton J
Published: July 2021

E.P. Meinecke, a noted plant pathologist and staunch supporter of conservation, authored an influential article about the impacts of tourism on redwood trees. In the Effect of Excessive Tourist Travel on the California Redwood Parks, published in 1929, Meinecke found that soil compaction by tourists had a negative impact on tree roots and his recommendations for amelioration were both logical and laced with philosophical ideals. We revisit that report with a modern perspective by reviewing his findings and suggestions, and by comparing his ideas with modern research and tourism management practices. One of Meinecke’s greatest concerns was the advent of the automobile and its ability to bring more people to redwood groves. We take that concern to the next logical step and discuss potential impacts of climate change on redwood trees.
Continuity during COVID: Critical digital pedagogy and special collections virtual instruction
Authors: Boczar Amanda , Jordan Sydney
Published: July 2021

When the world began to take notice of the growing risks of COVID-19 in early spring 2020, the University of South Florida Libraries–Tampa Special Collections shifted to virtual instruction sessions to provide students with access to rare books and primary-source archival materials. To respond to the need for a quick shift to online instruction, the department formulated a plan to support students with an open-access digital learning experience using ArcGIS StoryMaps. Building on critical digital pedagogy and feminist digital humanities, the sessions provided online teaching resources for faculty who could not schedule students for physical visits. Over the first year of remote work, the department created sessions for 15 course sections. Looking to the future, Special Collections will continue providing the option of virtual sessions as part of its instruction. The digital nature of the courses lends to a recursive pedagogy, allowing for continued adaptation that is complimentary to academic cycles.
Human Factors Assessment of Pavement Marking Retroreflectivity in Simulated Rain and Dry Conditions
Authors: Barrette Timothy P. , Pike Adam M.
Published: July 2021

Pavement marking retroreflectivity standards are typically developed with dry conditions in mind, however, driving at night during rainfall is seemingly one of the most challenging and stressful situations for a driver. Furthermore, existing research indicates continuous wet retroreflectivity is relatively weakly correlated with dry retroreflectivity and deteriorates differently over time, leading to the obvious conclusion that dry retroreflectivity standards alone are not enough to ensure that pavement markings meet the needs of drivers across the breadth of roadway conditions that may occur. Consequently, developing standards for minimum continuous wet retroreflectivity for new installations and for maintenance purposes represents an important area for research. This study aims to develop new installation and maintenance values for continuous wet retroreflectivity based on a multifaceted, closed-course study of detectability of pavement markings in simulated rain and dry conditions. A series of 20 pavement marking samples was evaluated in relation to detection distance and subjective rating. The results of the study indicated that pavement markings need to be maintained at a continuous wet retroreflectivity value of 50 mcd/m2/lux based on a participant pool that skewed older in age, but that likely represents something close to the 85th-percentile driver. Additional salient findings included observed wet retroreflectivity loss in the existing literature of approximately 7% per month, as well as the maximum preview time in simulated rain conditions being substantially lower than in dry conditions.
Role of Nutrition Counseling and Lifestyle Modification in Managing Prediabetes
Authors: Kaur Harleen , Singla Neerja , Jain Rohini
Published: July 2021

Objective:

India is the second country after China having the highest population prevalence of diabetes. Several research studies investigating diabetes have been done, but not much work has been done on prediabetes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of nutrition and lifestyle modification on prediabetic females.

Methods:

A total of 120 prediabetic females from Ludhiana city were divided into 2 matched groups: control group (n = 60) and experimental group (n = 60). Impact of nutrition intervention for dietary and lifestyle modification (for 3 months) was assessed on the anthropometric, dietary, biochemical parameters, and diabetes risk score of the experimental group and control group (no intervention).

Results:

All the selected 120 subjects completed the study (experimental group = 60; control group = 60). There was significant difference in the changes between the 2 groups throughout the study. The fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin A1c levels of the experimental group subjects reduced significantly ( P ≤ .01). However, no change was observed among the control group subjects. The lipid profile of the experimental group showed a significant improvement ( P ≤ .01).

Conclusion:

Nutrition counselling of the prediabetics regarding dietary and lifestyle modification is recommended so as to improve their metabolic control, thus preventing them from being diabetics.
Socioeconomic and Geographic Disparities in Emergency Department Visits due to Alcohol in Ontario: A Retrospective Population-level Study from 2003 to 2017
Authors: Myran Daniel , Hsu Amy , Kunkel Elizabeth , Rhodes Emily , Imsirovic Haris , Tanuseputro Peter
Published: July 2021

Objective:

While the overall health system burden of alcohol is large and increasing in Canada, little is known about how this burden differs by sociodemographic factors. The objectives of this study were to assess sociodemographic patterns and temporal trends in emergency department (ED) visits due to alcohol to identify emerging and at-risk subgroups.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective population-level cohort study of all individuals aged 10 to 105 living in Ontario, Canada. We identified ED visits due to alcohol between 2003 and 2017 using defined International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition, codes from a pre-existing indicator. We calculated annual age- and sex-standardized, and age- and sex-specific rates of ED visits and compared overall patterns and changes over time between urban and rural settings and income quintiles.

Results:

There were 829,662 ED visits due to alcohol over 15 years. Rates of ED visits due to alcohol were greater for individual living in the lowest- compared to the highest-income quintile neighbourhoods, and disparities (rate ratio lowest to highest quintile) increased with age from 1.22 (95% CI, 1.19 to 1.25) in 15- to 18-year-olds to 4.17 (95% CI, 4.07 to 4.28) in 55- to 59-year-olds. Rates of ED visits due to alcohol were significantly greater in rural settings (56.0 per 10,000 individuals, 95% CI, 55.7 to 56.4) compared to urban settings (44.8 per 10,000 individuals, 95% CI, 44.7 to 44.9), particularly for young adults. Increases in rates of visits between 2003 and 2017 were greater in rural versus urban settings (82 vs. 68% increase in age- and sex-standardized rates) and varied across sociodemographic subgroups with the largest annual increases in rates of visits in young (15 to 29) low-income women (6.9%, 95%CI, 6.7 to 7.3) and the smallest increase in older (45 to 59) high-income men (2.7, 95%CI, 2.4 to 3.0).

Conclusion:

Alcohol harms display unique patterns with the highest burden in rural and lower-income populations. Rural–urban and income-based disparities differ by age and sex and have increased over time, which offers an imperative and opportunity for further interventions by clinicians and policy makers.
Examining Measurement Invariance and Perceptions of School Climate Across Gender and Race and Ethnicity
Authors: La Salle Tamika P. , McCoach Dorothy Betsy , Meyers Joel
Published: July 2021

School climate can have a notable impact on student academic, social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes. It is also a critical component of school improvement efforts, as demonstrated by recent federal and state initiatives to provide resources and supports for increased school climate measurement, accountability, and improvement. The primary purpose of the current study was to establish measurement invariance of the Georgia School Climate Survey across gender and race/ethnicity among middle school students. The secondary purpose was to explore mean comparisons in school climate experiences across student groups. Participants included 629,584 middle and high school students. Confirmatory factor analyses supported a hierarchical model of school climate that included one overall factor, school climate, and eight subscales: school connectedness, civic engagement, physical environment, adult social support, peer social support, cultural acceptance, order and discipline, and safety. Measurement invariance for a subscale model of school climate across gender and race/ethnicity was established, and student means across groups were compared. Implications for the practical use of the GSCS as a school improvement tool to guide targeted and data-based decision are discussed.
Electrospun PLGA and PLGA/gelatin scaffolds for tubularized urethral replacement: Studies in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Hu Jinhua , Ai Bin , Zhu Shibo , Wang Zhen , Xia Huimin , Jia Wei
Published: July 2021

To investigate the biocompatibility of polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymer (PLGA) and PLGA/gelatin scaffolds and their suitability for tubular urethral replacement in a canine model. PLGA and PLGA/gelatin scaffolds was constructed by electrospinning. Microstructural differences between the scaffolds was examined by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) followed by mechanical properties testing. Biocompatibility of the material was evaluated using SEM 4, 8, 12 and 72 h after PLGA and PLGA/gelatin scaffolds co-culture with urothelial cells. And confocal analysis was also used to showed the cell adhesive and growth at 12 h. Approximately 2 cm of the anterior urethra of twelve dogs were removed and replaced with a scaffold. After the surgery for 1 month performed urethrography and for 3 month perform hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) and Masson. The results indicated that PLGA and PLGA/gelatin scaffolds had a void microfilament structure, similar to that of normal acellular matrix tissue. And the tensile strength was decreased whereas the tensile deformation and suture retention strength was increased in PLGA/gelatin scaffolds compared to that in PLGA scaffolds Urothelial cells grew well on both scaffolds. Postoperatively, animals recovered well and urinated spontaneously. However, urethrography showed varying degrees of urethral strictures in the reconstructed urethras. H&E and Masson showed that multilayer urothelial cells were formed in both the proximal and distal segments of the reconstructed urethras but without continuity. There was a small amount of smooth muscle and blood vessels under the epithelium, but regenerative urothelial cells at the midpoint of the reconstructed segment did not continue. Lots of lymphocyte infiltration was observed under the epithelium, some collagen tissue was deposited under the neo-urethral epithelium were observed. In conclusion, PLGA and PLGA/gelatin scaffolds are not suitable for tubularized urethral replacement in the canine model.
Drilling induced delamination assessment of nanoparticles reinforced polymer matrix composites
Authors: Pramod R , Basavarajappa S , Veeresh Kumar GB , Chavali Murthy
Published: July 2021

The knowledge of polymer matrix composites machinability has increased with its rise in multi-field structural applications. Drilling of polymer matrix composites is required to achieve structural integration with greater accuracies. Delamination due to drilling affects the material strength and it occurs at both the entry and hole exit planes. The delamination on the exit plane is critical. The effect of nano-fillers on drilling-induced delamination of reinforced plastics has not been documented extensively and in this article, an attempt is made to explore the application potential of montmorillonite clay and graphene with amine functionalization in minimizing delamination through toughening the epoxy matrix. Experimentation was based on Taguchi’s L16 approach. The delamination factor and circularity ratio were analyzed using an image processing technique in Matlab and Image J. To evaluate the effects of various parameters and parameters interaction effect on the delamination factor, ANOVA was employed and Signal/noise ratios were calculated. The mathematical models were developed for delamination. It was observed that the reduction in the delamination factor was observed in nanoclay and graphene reinforced polymer matrix toughened composites in comparison to the base composites with a reduction in thrust force, specific cutting energy, and increase in circularity ratio.
Haptic control of steer-by-wire systems using parameter estimation of rack system lateral load model
Authors: Lee Jaepoong , Kim Kwang Il , Kim Minjun , Yi Kyongsu
Published: July 2021

This paper describes a haptic control of steer-by-wire systems for rendering the conventional steering system under various road conditions using parameter estimation of rack system lateral load model. To design the conventional steering system model, the dynamic model of a rack system has been developed as a mass-spring-damper system with a friction model. An online parameter estimation of the rack system was designed to consider the various road conditions in the haptic rendering. In a steering wheel system, which is a haptic device, a limit cycle, and instable behavior can occur due to the sampling rate and quantization. To prevent the limit cycle and instable behavior, a passivity analysis was conducted and constraint conditions of the rendering coefficient was derived. The haptic control algorithm is designed to render the conventional steering system without limit cycles using passivity conditions. The performance of the proposed controller was evaluated via both computer simulations and vehicle tests under various steering conditions. The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm ensures haptic rendering performance on dry and wet asphalt conditions.
Dr James Copland (1791–1870) and his Dictionary of Practical Medicine
Authors: Gray Simon
Published: July 2021

Dr James Copland (1791–1870) was born in the Orkney Islands and studied medicine at Edinburgh where he graduated in 1815. The following year was spent in Paris to acquire knowledge of the latest developments in pathology and he then travelled for a year along the coast of West Africa gaining practical experience of treating tropical diseases. After establishing his medical practice in London, which eventually became extremely successful, he contributed to medical journals and also became editor of the London Medical Repository from 1822 to 1825. His greatest work was The Dictionary of Practical Medicine written entirely by himself which was completed between 1832 and 1858. More than 10,000 copies of the dictionary were sold and its author became world famous during his lifetime. In 1833, Copland was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society and from 1837 onwards he played a prominent role in the proceedings of The Royal College of Physicians. This article shows how his extensive professional and literary work was combined with an unusual private life.
Workplace challenges and nurses recovered from COVID-19
Authors: Mohammadi Farshad , Radfar Moloud , Hemmati Maslak Pak Masumeh
Published: July 2021

Background:

Although many studies have addressed COVID-19, the challenges faced by nurses in their workplace after recovering from this disease have not been investigated. As the backbone of the health system and at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19, nurses are exposed to serious risks of infection and even death. They may also face numerous challenges in their workplace after recovering from COVID-19. It is therefore ethically recommended that the problems of these nurses be solved to increase their job satisfaction and encourage them to remain in their profession.

Objectives:

The present research was conducted to determine the workplace challenges faced by nurses who had recovered from COVID-19.

Methods:

This qualitative study was conducted using the interpretive phenomenological approach proposed by van Manen. The data collected through 17 in-depth semi-structured interviews with 14 eligible nurses at different occupational levels were analyzed using the six steps proposed by van Manen. These nurses had also recovered from COVID-19.

Ethical considerations:

This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Urmia University of Medical Sciences (IR.UMSU.REC.1399.318).

Findings:

Four themes and 20 subthemes extracted from analyzing the data explained the challenges faced by the nurses after their return to work. The themes included declined ethical values (four subthemes), infected nurses, forgotten patients (three subthemes), gradually leaving the job (six subthemes), and corona phobia (seven subthemes).

Conclusion:

The present findings can be used to lay the foundations for adopting humanitarian policies in health organizations in terms of ethical care provision during future pandemics.
The Economic Growth–Income Inequality–Poverty Nexus and Its Impact on Environmental Degradation: Empirical Evidence from India
Authors: Mohapatra Geetilaxmi , Giri Arun Kumar
Published: July 2021

This study attempts to examine the main forces affecting short-run and long-run carbon emission patterns due to changes in economic growth, income inequality and poverty in India over the period 1982–2018. For this purpose, it uses the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) cointegration technique and the vector error correction model (VECM) based on Granger causality tests. The stationary properties of the variables are checked using the Ng–Perron test. The results of the ARDL bounds test confirm the long-run relationship among the variables. Further, the ARDL coefficient confirms that economic growth and poverty increase carbon emissions in both the short and long run. The empirical findings of the causality test indicate the presence of short-run causality running from economic growth and poverty reduction to environmental degradation. Hence, the study recommends that policymakers must devote more attention to alleviating poverty and reducing income inequalities through redistributing transfers, investing on universal access to health and education, implementing progressive taxation policies, empowering women and enforcing the Clean India mission, which will have a positive impact on reducing environmental degradation in India. Further, the study also recommends appropriate environmental regulations that can substantially stimulate innovations to increase energy efficiency and thereby reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
Toward a Curriculum for the Future: Synthesizing Education for Sustainable Development and Internationalization of the Curriculum
Authors: Gregersen-Hermans Jeanine
Published: July 2021

The need to solve the common global challenges at a systemic level in a collaborative, equitable, and culturally sensitive way naturally connects Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and Internationalization of the Curriculum (IoC). The purpose of this article is to explore how ESD and IoC can strengthen each other and provide a more holistic student learning experience. The literature on ESD and IoC has been reviewed to identify the intersections in pedagogical approaches to curriculum design, delivery, and assessment. The review demonstrates how the ESD and IoC educational initiatives can be synthesized into a curriculum for the future, in which criticality plays a vital role. To illustrate this opportunity, the example of a curriculum innovation project at the International Business School Maastricht is provided. In this project, the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) model of Global Competence developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) has been applied as the conceptual underpinning for the design of a 2-year learning pathway Intercultural Business. The project highlights that to achieve their aims, ESD and IoC need to function as a joint defining lens for curriculum design and delivery. A collaborative and critical approach offers an opportunity to (re-)imagine the curriculum from the perspective of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) and reach beyond the institution by engaging in sustainable and inclusive social change in line with the civic mission of the institution. The implications for the continuing professional development of lecturers and the need for students’ co-ownership of the curriculum are discussed.