bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers and Facilitators to Physical Activity Among Older Adults in Residential Aged Care Facilities: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review Using the Social Ecological Model
Authors: Baidya Sumana , Connolly Cath J. , Petersen Jasmine M. , Baldwin Claire , van den Berg Maayken E. L. , Harris Isobel , Lewis Lucy K.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To ascertain the barriers and facilitators to physical activity (PA) for older adults in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs), from the perspective of residents, staff, and family.

Methods

A mixed-methods systematic review, underpinned by the Social Ecological Model (SEM). Five databases were searched from inception to May 2024. Data synthesis followed a convergent integrated approach, with relevant quantitative data ‘qualitised’ and synthesised with qualitative data using thematic synthesis.

Results

This review included 67 studies (40 qualitative, 16 mixed-methods, and 11 quantitative). Thematic synthesis identified 51 key themes (27 facilitators and 24 barriers), spanning all levels of the SEM. Intrapersonal factors (e.g. poor general health) were the most commonly cited barriers ( n = 53 studies), and interpersonal factors (e.g. social support) the most commonly reported facilitators ( n = 55 studies) to PA in RACFs.

Discussion

An interplay of multi-level factors must be addressed in the development and implementation of strategies to promote PA in RACFs.
‘You’d Die if You Didn’t Have Fun’: Interpreting the Experiences of Long-Term Unemployed Men as Bakhtinian Death–Rebirth
Authors: Tracey Helen
Published: November 2024

Death is a well-established metaphor for how individuals experience and cope with change: from organisational restructuring to job loss. However, the critical potential of death metaphors, particularly relating to job loss and unemployment, has not been fully realised. Drawing on dialogues between long-term unemployed men and their case workers at a Work Club in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK, this article addresses a lack of theorisation of situated relational jobseeker resistance. Interpreting these experiences through Bakhtin’s concept of death–rebirth, metaphorical death can be understood as a feeling induced by stigmatising unemployment discourse. Rebirth represents the temporary resistance of this death through carnivalesque laughter, parody and grotesque humour. It is concluded that the men resist the stigma of blame for their own unemployment by using humorous carnivalesque reversals between death and rebirth as a form of relational jobseeker resistance.
Study on the stress evolution at threads of bolted joint under transverse loads
Authors: Wang Can , Du Mingcong , Zheng Mingpo , Sun Qingchao
Published: November 2024

Severe self-loosening behavior, accompanied by the friction and wear at the threads, will be caused under cyclic transverse loads, resulting in degradation or even failure of the structure. In this work, an experimental study on the loss of bolt preload under cyclic transverse loads was carried out. The results of cyclic transverse loading tests showed that when the bolt preload does not exceed a certain threshold, the increased bolt preload can improve the anti-loosening performance of bolted joint. Subsequently, the finite element analysis model of bolted joint with the thread lead angle considered is developed by means of parametric modeling to investigate the evolution of stress state at threads under cyclic transverse loads. Finite element analysis results showed that after the completion of tightening, the stress distribution of the first layer is the largest, followed by a decreasing form. As the number of cyclic loads increased, the degree of uneven stress distribution in the threads decreased. Once the threshold was exceeded, further increase in the bolt preload will reduce the ability to improve the anti-loosening performance. Through the observations of the surface morphology at threads, it showed that the most significant friction and wear was observed at the first layer thread, which is consistent with the result of finite element analysis.
Strain-controlled thermomechanical fatigue testing of EN-GJL-250 for automotive brake disc application
Authors: Sathish Kesavan Thiagarajan , Maniraj Jaganathan , Thangarasu Velliyan Subramanian , Sahayaraj Arockiasamy Felix , GaneshKumar Selvaraj
Published: November 2024

In an automobile braking system, the heating and cooling cycles that take place on the brake disc surface during braking action lead to thermomechanical fatigue (TMF). TMF, a type of non-isothermal fatigue, occurs when a material experiences simultaneous mechanical and thermal loads. Based on a material’s elastic and plastic deformation, the strain-life technique of fatigue analysis calculates how many TMF cycles a material will withstand before failing. However, it is challenging to effectively recreate the TMF process using conventional testing methods due to the cyclical changes in temperature, stress, and strain. So, in the current situation, all TMF life projections are based mostly on isothermal condition because low-cycle fatigue (LCF) data, which is normally used for design purposes, has been created isothermally. In the present work, a reliable test procedure is adopted to measure the TMF behavior of cast iron grade EN-GJL-250. The novel testing procedure closely resembles the field’s cyclical patterns of temperature and mechanical strain, in addition to online monitoring of the TMF cycles. The testing procedure complies with ISO 12111, ASTM E2368, and the European Code of Practice (CoP). The TMF behavior of EN-GJL-250 was characterized by hysteresis loops and cyclic stress-strain responses. Designers can use test data to help them simulate component behavior and validate current designs through numerical simulations.
Braking reconstruction control for fault-tolerance in electro-mechanical brake actuator failures
Authors: Wu Tong , Wang Junnian , Rong Jin , Meng Yang , Yang Xiaojun , Peng Jing , Chu Liang
Published: November 2024

Electro-mechanical brake (EMB) has been recognized as prospective braking system for electric vehicles. However, the safety issues associated with actuator failures have become the main bottleneck restricting its application. Taking other healthy actuators as redundant resources and establishing controller to reconstruct the braking force after braking failures is the main technical approach for improving EMB fault-tolerance. After literature review, the braking reconstruction control in previous studies are dedicated to a specific failure mode, such as single actuator failure, and the universality of the previous braking reconstruction methods requires further verifications. To solve that, an electric bus equipped with EMB was taken as carrier to further study the optimal braking reconstruction scheme. Specifically, an overall control architecture is presented, and the braking failure modes under the multiple factors are analyzed firstly. Subsequently, the braking reconstruction rules are built to regulate the braking force on remaining and healthy actuators upon braking failure modes. Furthermore, the [Formula: see text] algorithm is introduced to decide the reconstructed braking force according to the vehicle motions. Finally, the co-simulation analyses and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests are carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the braking reconstruction control in EMB actuator failures. The main results indicated that the braking reconstruction is dynamically adjusted by the [Formula: see text] controller according to vehicle dynamics, and the proposed braking reconstruction control achieved the expected effects in the above conditions.
Brake pads performance analysis: Influence of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) viscosity on tribological efficiency
Authors: Nazeer Jiyas , Sasidharan Indu , Karthikeyan Bindu Kumar
Published: November 2024

Friction materials are crucial in engineering, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors where they are extensively used in brake systems. Lubricants are essential in these brake pad materials because they provide friction stability and reduce wear, especially at high temperatures. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), known for its thermal stability and low volatility, is a lubricant in automotive brake pads. However, the effect of PDMS viscosity on the tribological behaviour of brake pads and their overall braking effectiveness is not well understood. This study examines the effect of PDMS viscosity on the tribological properties of eco-friendly brake pads reinforced with benzoyl-treated Pseudoxytenanthera stocksii (P. stocksii) bamboo rhizomes. Brake pads were fabricated with varying viscosities of PDMS and subjected to detailed physical, chemical, mechanical, and tribological testing. Tribological tests were conducted using a CHASE tribometer under controlled conditions, following SAE J661a standards. The results reveal a significant relationship between PDMS viscosity and the tribological properties of the brake pads. Specifically, low-viscosity PDMS emerged as a highly effective additive, demonstrating superior tribological performance compared to higher-viscosity variants. Conversely, higher-viscosity PDMS improved lubrication, leading to a lower coefficient of friction and reduced wear rates. This research underscores the importance of PDMS, particularly in its low-viscosity form, in enhancing the tribological properties of friction composites in brake pad formulations.
Social Media and Millennials: Visualising Insights Through Bibliometric and Content Analysis
Authors: Garima  , Sheokand Karamvir
Published: November 2024

This study collates the academic literature on social media and millennials by extracting data from Scopus and Web of Science databases. In this study, 321 research articles on the theme of social media and millennials were investigated after removal of duplicates and non-contextual articles. This study used Biblioshiny and VOSviewer for the analysis and future research avenues are also identified. Through this review, six major themes are identified: brand engagement, purchase intention, attitude towards social media, Instagram, service recovery and brand experience. Future research agendas are also highlighted within each theme. This study serves as a source of reference for researchers to conduct further research on the theme of social media and millennials. Additionally, practitioners will acquire a thorough comprehension of this study field.
Effects of Integrating Palliative Care in Patients With Advanced Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Quality of Life and Psychological Outcomes
Authors: Bader Husam , Farraj Husam , Yamin Saif , Alshahwan Hamzeh Feras , Maghnam Joud , Khateeb Rafina
Published: November 2024

Background: Patients with advanced cancer frequently have a wide range of mental and physical symptoms, making it difficult for them to communicate and make informed decisions. Necessitating the incorporation of palliative care in this population to meet their supportive care requirements. Objective: To investigate the effects of integrating Palliative care in advanced cancer patients. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Google Scholar databases were comprehensively and systematically searched for Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published up to February 2024. According to the PICOS criteria, trials enrolling adult patients with advanced cancer subjected to PC were included. Moreover, a risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and statistical analyses were performed using the Review Manager software. Results: Only 13 RCTs with 3,294 advanced cancer patients were included in the final analysis. A pooled analysis of data from these trials revealed that patients subjected to PC had improved quality of life (QoL) scores than those receiving standard care (SMD: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.07 – 0.30; p = 0.002). However, no significant difference was observed in depression (SMD: -0.03; 95% CI: -0.16 – 0.10; p = 0.63), anxiety (SMD: - 0.04; 95% CI: -0.23 – 0.15; p = 0.69), and survival (OR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.56 – 1.16; p = 0.25). Conclusion: Integrating PC in patients with advanced cancer results in improved QoL with limited effect on psychological distress symptoms.
Are aquatic exercises feasible post stroke? What do we know after an overview of systematic reviews?
Authors: Paixão Luana , Obara Karen , Silva Carla T. , Nampo Daniel B. , Munaro Giovana R. , Cardoso Jefferson R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Aquatic exercises might be considered a safe modality for the treatment of individuals after stroke.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of aquatic exercise (AE) compared to land-based conventional therapy or no intervention.

Methods

This overview of systematic reviews (SR) followed the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration, the protocol was registered on PROSPERO, and the risk of bias was assessed by AMSTAR-2. The databases Medline, Embase, Web of Science, SportDiscus, Cinahl, Scopus, Scielo, and PEDro, from 1945 to 2024, were used.

Results

In total, 15 SRs were included. All reviews showed methodological failure according to the AMSTAR-2 classification, being shown to be critically low. The domains that presented the worst performance were related to the registration of the protocol, assessment of the risk of bias of the primary studies, and adequate conduction of the meta-analysis.

Conclusions

According to the included reviews, aquatic exercise can be effective, especially in improving balance, however, caution is needed to interpret these findings due to their critically low methodological quality. No adverse effects were reported in any of the reviews.
Increase in EEG alpha-to-theta ratio after transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in patients with disorders of consciousness: A pilot study
Authors: Tarantino Vincenza , Fontana Maria Lorena , Buttà Angela , Ficile Simona , Oliveri Massimiliano , Mandalà Giorgio , Smirni Daniela
Published: November 2024

Background

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has emerged as a potentially effective intervention for improving consciousness levels in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC). Most studies demonstrating benefits have targeted the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). However, inconsistent results have been reported across studies, and the brain effects of the stimulation remain unclear.

Objective

This work aimed to investigate the effects of a tDCS treatment on brain reactivity at rest in patients with DoC.

Methods

A 10-session tDCS treatment was administered over the left DLPFC in a group of patients with DoC. The effect of this stimulation was tested by combining the conventional behavioral assessment, conducted with the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R), with a quantitative analysis of the resting-state electrical brain activity, measured by electroencephalography (EEG).

Results

Following treatment, there was a slight improvement in CRS-R scores. More importantly, an increase in the ratio between alpha and theta power over posterior scalp regions was observed, even in patients who did not show changes in CRS-R scores.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that adding a simple quantitative EEG analysis alongside conventional clinical assessment post-tDCS could enhance the detection of changes in brain reactivity.
Morphometric Evaluation of the Greater Palatine Foramen in Patients With Cleft lip and Palate (CLP) and Controls: A CBCT Study
Authors: Tabatabaei Salma , Paknahad Maryam , Adab Sajjad
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to use cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to compare the morphometric characteristics of the greater palatine foramen (GPF) in unilateral and bilateral cleft lip/palate patients (CL/P) and non-cleft (NC) individuals.

Method and material

One hundred patients with CL/P (78 unilateral and 22 bilateral) and 100 non-cleft individuals had their GPF morphometrically assessed in CBCT images. The antero-posterior width and medio-lateral width of the GPF, the distance between the right and left GPFs, the mesio-distal location of the GPF with respect to the molar teeth, the distance between the GPF and the hamulus of the medial pterygoid plate, and the distance between the GPF and the palatine alveolar ridge were measured on these images. The Kruskal–Wallis and Chi-square tests were employed to ascertain if there were any notable disparities across the 3 groups.

Results

The GPF's antero-posterior width and medio-lateral width, and distance from the hamulus and palatine alveolar ridge were considerably smaller in the unilateral cleft lip/palate (UCL/P) and bilateral cleft lip/palate (BCL/P) patients than in the NC individuals. However, no significant difference was observed between the BCL/P and UCL/P groups in terms of these parameters. The distance between GPFs and the location of the GPF did not exhibit any significant differences among the 3 groups.

Conclusion

Certain morphometric parameters of the GPF were significantly different in CL/P patients. Understanding the anatomy of this area is crucial for successful treatment of individuals with CL/P with minimal complications.
On effective moduli of defective beam lattices via the lattice green’s functions
Authors: Gong Yuhao , Liu Jinxing , Liang Naigang
Published: November 2024

A method is proposed to analyze the effective moduli of periodically defective beam lattices by using the Lattice Green’s Functions (LGF). The LGF of beam lattices is built to calculate the displacement caused by external nodal forces. We describe the stress redistribution due to defects by applying extra nodal forces. Then, analyzing a defective unit cell is equivalently transformed to that on its perfect counterpart by representing the influence of defects by an equivalent force field based on the superposition principle. Based on the obtained displacement field of the defective unit cell, the elastic moduli of defective lattices can be calibrated based on the equivalence of strain energy, which indicates that the strain energy of the structural energetic expression is equal to its continuum counterpart. By comparing it with finite element simulations, the prediction ability of the proposed method has been demonstrated. Systematic parametric analyses are then carried out to illustrate the effects of element types, defect types, the defect number density, and the slenderness ratio on the effective moduli of defective lattices.
Engraved in the Heart: How Rousseau’s Citizens are Motivated Toward the Common Good
Authors: Dahlsten Jonathan
Published: November 2024

While Jean-Jacques Rousseau firmly defended the capacity of ordinary people to make good decisions for themselves, he did not view them as doing so naturally. In his view, they have to be educated and formed into citizens to be capable of sound decision making. But what is the nature of this education? For one prominent interpretive line, the Social Autonomy interpretation, the transformation occurs primarily through the education of reason. However, this article looks to an early draft of the Social Contract known as the Geneva Manuscript to argue that Rousseau views most people as narrowly self-interested and therefore in need of a passional transformation in order to make decisions based on the common good. People need their feelings expanded in order to agree to a good social contract. In the early draft, Rousseau considers a rationalist account of legitimacy and motivation made by his contemporary Denis Diderot but ultimately critiques and rejects it. This article traces the critique from the manuscript through to the final edition, emending the Social Autonomy interpretation, and further highlighting the necessity of emotional, extra-rational education in Rousseau’s thought.
“The Owl”: A Poetic Testimonio
Authors: Saldaña Johnny
Published: November 2024

The United States’s southwest desert region embodies a blend of indigenous cultures with their unique ethos. “The Owl,” based on an actual event that occurred three decades ago to the author in Arizona, weaves Native American and Hispanic spiritual beliefs. The recounted experience is a personal, poetic testimonio on wisdom as a gift.
Effect of essential oils on the antibacterial activity and technological properties of dark chocolate
Authors: Vaughan Julyana Laura Medeiros , Borges Lara Aguiar , do Nascimento Maristela da Silva , Ribeiro Ana Paula Badan , Efraim Priscilla
Published: November 2024

Salmonella outbreaks associated with chocolate consumption are periodically reported. To address this issue, essential oils (EOs) have been proposed to be effective against foodborne pathogens. In addition, EOs constituents appear to modify the lipid phase of the product, leading to an improvement in quality. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial potential of EOs from Thymus vulgaris EO (TvEO) and the combination of T. vulgaris and Cymbopogon citratus EO (TvCcEO) in dark chocolate against S. Typhimurium ATCC 14028, as well as their influence on the technological properties during storage. The findings indicate that the EOs had no significant impact on the reduction of the target microorganism. Furthermore, the polymorphic transition from unstable crystals to the most stable form was detected in the chocolate control sample and chocolate with TvEO from 21 days of storage, while the transition in chocolate with TvCcEO was detected from 30 days of storage. Moreover, the addition of EOs reduced the chocolate's tensile strength and retarded the development of fat bloom from 62 days of storage. Therefore, these findings could prove valuable for future research investigating the potential of EOs in chocolate with the aim of delaying fat bloom development or inhibiting microbial growth.
Conceptualizing the Dangerous Rise of Ethnoreligious Nationalist Literacies in Education
Authors: Barros Sandro R. , Juzwik Mary , Gajasinghe Kasun
Published: November 2024

Reluctance to embrace change leaves societies vulnerable to the rise of authoritarian political ideologies, particularly during times of socioeconomic and political crises. Public schools have seen an increase in incidents where fundamentalist groups with differing agendas have attempted to pressure them into adopting curricula whose literacy practices are rooted in a White, northern European Protestant worldview. This essay examines this contemporary phenomenon in public education discourse, which the authors identify as “ethnoreligious nationalism.” It does so by providing a snapshot of current spectacles of ethnoreligious nationalist activism worldwide, discussing how their affective literacy strategies have contributed to the demoralization of public education as a democratic institution. We conclude by proposing potential questions for critical comparative international research on the literacies deployed by ethnoreligious nationalist movements across educational settings.
A Taxonomical Framework for Autonomic Computing Within Cyber-Physical Systems of Systems
Authors: Berezovskyi Andrii , Mokrushin Leonid , Asplund Fredrik , El-khoury Jad , Inam Rafia , Fersman Elena
Published: November 2024

An increase in size and complexity prompts research of autonomous control of connected cyber-physical systems (CPS) at the level of intents (high-level goals). Domain-specific solutions such as intent-based networking, and the next generation of supervisory control and data acquisition and manufacturing execution systems, were influenced by the concept of autonomic computing and Monitor-Analyze-Plan-Execute loops over shared knowledge to introduce such control. However, there is a dearth of knowledge concerning the architectural attributes required to enable autonomic computing at a domain-independent level. CPSs are also often contributed by multiple stakeholders, thereby forming systems of systems in which architectures are by necessity federated. Herein, we apply a systematic approach to develop a taxonomy of such attributes, considering the federated nature of architectures, the need to accommodate heterogeneity and the legacy systems commonly encountered in practice. The proposed taxonomy covers nine key dimensions present within different domains of autonomic computing: knowledge representation, learning, distribution, reactivity, environment observability, information acquisition automation, information analysis automation, decision selection automation, and action implementation automation. The utility of the taxonomy is further demonstrated through an application to architectures across domains and scales.
Compressive performance of three-dimensional multilevel sandwich composite structures
Authors: Singh Sudhanshu , Kamble Zunjarrao , Neje Ghanshyam
Published: November 2024

This study reports a two-dimensional bi-directional E-glass woven fabric preform structure is converted into a three-dimensional sandwich composite structure with the help of wooden molds and matrix material. One to three levels of sandwich composite are prepared with a rectangular core configuration by keeping the specimen’s constant dimensions. A second multilevel sandwich composite sample set is developed with hexagonal, square, and triangular core configurations, maintaining length, width, height, and weight constant. The developed composite samples are characterized by their compressive properties. For single, double, and triple-level sandwich composites with rectangular cores, it is found that increasing the number of levels led to an increase in compressive load capacity, with triple-level structures exhibiting the highest strength. However, an increase in the number of levels resulted in a decrease in specific compressive load. Additionally, the energy absorption capacity increases as the number of levels increases. In the case of multilevel sandwich composites with triangular, square, and hexagonal core, the triangular core demonstrated the highest compressive strength and energy absorption capacity compared to square and hexagonal configurations. The failure modes of the sandwich composite structure have also been discussed. The results indicate that the sandwich composite’s compressive, energy absorption properties, and failure modes depend on many parameters, such as the number of levels, core structure, free wall length, face sheet length, and loading direction. The findings of this study will provide valuable insights into potential applications and performance of these advanced sandwich structures, enabling improved design and optimization for specific engineering applications across diverse industries.
Prefiguration, Resilience and Transitions to Adulthood: Russian Youth in Times of Uncertainty
Authors: Andreeva Anastasiia S. , Omelchenko Elena L. , Sorokin Pavel S.
Published: November 2024

The article discusses how Russian youth search for resilience strategies, opportunities for decision-making and meaningful participation in times of uncertainty. Being in a high-risk political climate, young Russians turn to prefiguration: they embody the alternatives to the existing regime of neoliberal governmentality via organizing or engaging in grassroots activist initiatives. Based on the analysis of in-depth interviews with young St. Petersburg residents in 2022 and 2023, we show how they define their civil positions in the presence and how they mark their (non)adulthood. We demonstrate that involvement in prefiguration via informal grassroots youth organizations is an important condition for the formation of the youth’s civic consciousness.
Incel Epistemology: On Marginality, Experience and Legitimization of Knowledge
Authors: Wilén Evelina Johansson
Published: November 2024

This article contributes to the growing corpus of knowledge concerning the incel movement by scrutinizing how claims of marginalization are mobilized in online incel communities to present incels as privileged subjects of knowledge. The study elucidates how incel marginalization is wielded as a legitimizing experience, conferring epistemic privilege upon self-identifying incels by distinguishing between an ‘us’ of marginalized and enlightened incels, and a ‘them’ consisting of duped and privileged ‘others’. It also examines the role of partaking in incel discussions and incel ideology to achieve an incel standpoint, where lived experience is transformed into counter-hegemonic knowledge. Inspired by social movement theory, the article points to similarities between the incel movement’s political mobilization of marginalized experience and feminist standpoint theory and feminist practices in consciousness-raising groups. It argues that this affinity can be understood from the perspective of the dynamic between movements and counter-movements and their tendency to mimic and copy each other’s tactics.
Navigating women’s cancer prevention: Two cross-sectional studies to investigate psychosocial antecedents of cervical and breast cancer screening attendance
Authors: Bianchi Marcella , Capasso Miriam , Donizzetti Anna Rosa , Caso Daniela
Published: November 2024

Despite population-based cancer screening programmes effectively decreasing mortality, participation rates are unsatisfactory for both cervical and breast screening. This research tested an integrated theory of planned behaviour model applied to cervical cancer screening (CCS; Study 1) and breast cancer screening (BCS; Study 2) attendance. Women residing in Campania (Italy) and belonging to each screening target population joined two independent surveys (Study 1: n = 332, Mage = 41.03, SD = 11.45; Study 2: n = 298, Mage = 55.03; SD = 5.17). In both studies, screening behaviour was predicted by intention to undergo the screening, action and coping planning. Significant predictors of intention were subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and self-identity in Study 1, and subjective norms, anticipated regret and self-identity in Study 2. A mediation analysis confirmed the role of action and coping planning in the intention-behaviour relation. This model can guide forthcoming interventions and steer enhancements in healthcare access.
Exploring social, cultural and environmental factors that influence attitudes to exercise among people with Parkinson’s disease: A qualitative study
Authors: Baron Fred , Bogosian Angeliki
Published: November 2024

Exercise is recommended for people with Parkinson’s (PwP) but clinical exercise-based interventions are generally ineffective. Social, cultural and environmental factors can influence exercise behaviours, but these topics are under-researched. We interviewed 18 PwP using a narrative approach to identify factors influencing their exercise behaviours throughout their lives. Thematic analysis identified three themes: (1) Why I exercise, (2) What helps and (3) Exercise with Parkinson’s. Participants had consistent core motivations to exercise: mood and well-being, body image, competition, and camaraderie. Having active partners, supportive work, and varied exercise options were among the important facilitators of long-term exercise. Participants believed strongly in the benefits of exercise for Parkinson’s, but experienced guilt about not exercising enough and frustration when symptoms made it harder to continue. This study illustrates how narrative interviews can reveal important social, cultural and environmental influences on exercise behaviour, offering potential to develop more individualised and effective exercise interventions.
Assessing palliative care needs in patients with dementia: A cross-sectional analysis of an predominantly oldest-old population from a geriatric memory clinic
Authors: Tagliafico Luca , Drago Bianca , Ottaviani Silvia , Nencioni Alessio , Monacelli Fiammetta
Published: November 2024

In this cross-sectional study, we assessed palliative care (PC) needs in older adults with dementia. Using the NECPAL CCOMS-ICO© 3.1 tool and comprehensive geriatric assessment, 16.25% of the 554 evaluated patients required PC, which had clinical frailty and a moderate stage of dementia. Advanced frailty was associated with the poorest prognosis, according to the PC-based stratification. Our findings support the use of PC assessment in dementia care, which focuses on a person-centered approach while minimizing unnecessary or ineffective treatments and meeting the real-world patient's needs. PC care may fulfill the multidimensional nature of dementia, shifting towards personalized palliative approaches.
Blood-brain barrier permeable β-blockers association with Alzheimer's disease cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers levels in non-demented individuals
Authors: Buongiorno Mariateresa , Sánchez-Benavides Gonzalo , Marzal-Espí Clara , Giraldo Darly Milena , Krupinski Jerzy , Cullell Natalia , Grau-Rivera Oriol , Suárez-Calvet Marc , Gispert Juan Domingo , de la Sierra Alex ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative **,   and the European Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease (EPAD) Consortium
Published: November 2024

β-blockers that easily cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) seem to diminish the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD), hypothetically facilitating waste clearance. However, their effect on AD pathophysiological markers is unknown. We compared cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD biomarker levels among non-demented individuals taking low, intermediate, or high BBB permeable β-blockers in two samples (ADNI: n = 216; EPAD: n = 79). We found that CSF amyloid-β levels were higher in individuals taking highly permeable β-blockers in the ADNI sample. This result was not replicated in EPAD, in which diminished levels of pTau181 and tTau were observed. These data suggest that β-blockers may impact AD pathophysiology.
Distinct tau pathologies in the nucleus basalis of Meynert between early-onset and late-onset Alzheimer's disease patients revealed by positron emission tomography
Authors: Suzuki Hisaomi , Tagai Kenji , Ono Maiko , Shimizu Hiroshi , Endo Hironobu , Matsumoto Hideki , Kubota Manabu , Kataoka Yuko , Moriguchi Sho , Kurose Shin , Ichihashi Masanori , Shinotoh Hitoshi , Matsuoka Kiwamu , Kokubo Naomi , Tatebe Harutsugu , Matsuura Sayo , Yamamoto Yasuharu , Momota Yuki , Kawamura Kazunori , Zhang Ming-Rong , Takado Yuhei , Shimada Hitoshi , Tokuda Takahiko , Onaya Mitsumoto , Mimura Masaru , Kakita Akiyoshi , Sahara Naruhiko , Uchida Hiroyuki , Higuchi Makoto , Takahata Keisuke
Published: November 2024

Background

Tau accumulation in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM) has been documented in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but its relationship to neuropathological changes in other brain regions and cognitive deficits remains unclear, particularly between early-onset AD (EOAD) and late-onset AD (LOAD).

Objective

To evaluate tau accumulation patterns in the nbM and other brain regions in EOAD and LOAD using 18F-florzolotau PET and examine correlations with cognitive function.

Methods

Thirty-eight amyloid-positive AD patients (15 EOAD, 23 LOAD) and 46 healthy controls underwent 18F-florzolotau PET. Tau levels were quantified in the nbM and Braak-staging regions. Postmortem brain samples were examined to assess 18F-florzolotau binding to tau deposits.

Results

EOAD showed a higher overall tau burden, including in the nbM, compared with LOAD. However, nbM tau levels correlated more strongly with cognitive decline in LOAD than EOAD. The relationship between nbM tau and neocortical tau differed between EOAD and LOAD. Histopathology revealed abundant 18F-florzolotau labeling of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and ghost tangles in AD nbM samples.

Conclusions

This study provides the first in vivo PET evidence of differential nbM tau pathology between EOAD and LOAD, with higher accumulation but weaker correlation to cognition in EOAD. The distinct relationships between nbM and cortical tau in EOAD and LOAD suggest divergent pathological trajectories. 18F-florzolotau PET successfully visualized NFTs and extracellular ghost tangles in the nbM across AD stages. These findings highlight the importance of considering age of onset when evaluating tau pathology and its clinical correlates in AD.
Prevalence of motoric cognitive risk syndrome among older adults in Brazil and evaluation of effect modification by race
Authors: Martins João Paulo , Fukushima Fernanda Bono , Benatti Leandra Navarro , Bazan Rodrigo , Silva Katherine Di Santi Correa da , Vidal Edison Iglesias de Oliveira
Published: November 2024

Background

Motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCRS) is a pre-dementia syndrome of growing interest, yet it remains understudied in Latin America with a significant lack of information on the interaction between its risk factors and race.

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of MCRS among older adults in Brazil, investigate its association with various clinical and sociodemographic variables, and explore the potential of effect modification by race.

Methods

This cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted among community-dwelling older adults in Brazil, with data collected between 2015 and 2016. The diagnosis of MCRS was established following the standard recommended by the original study that first described it. We used Poisson regression models to analyze the association between MCRS and a list of 21 variables identified from a systematic review.

Results

A total of 4677 participants aged 60 years and older were included. The prevalence of MCRS in the Brazilian population of older adults was 4.34% (95% CI: 3.20%–5.48%). Higher levels of education and physical activity showed protective associations with MCRS, while depression and stroke demonstrated risk associations. A significant cross-over interaction between race and depression regarding MCRS was observed, such that the association of depression with MCRS was approximately three times higher among White individuals than Black individuals.

Conclusions

Our results challenge previous estimates that Latin America is the region with the highest prevalence of MCRS among older adults and signal the need for further studies to better investigate the modification of effect of the association between depression and MCRS by race.
Development of prechamber enabled mixing-controlled combustion strategy for ultra-low methane emissions from lean burn natural gas engines
Authors: Nsaif Osama , Dempsey Adam
Published: November 2024

This numerical study explores the optimization of Prechamber Enabled Mixing-Controlled Combustion (PC-MCC) using natural gas in heavy-duty engines, aiming to enhance combustion efficiency to minimize methane slip and NOx emissions. The approach involves a prechamber ignition system, distinct from conventional spark ignition (SI) systems, to initiate combustion of direct injected natural gas. By leveraging the robust ignition characteristics of the prechamber, the PC-MCC method demonstrates significant potential in achieving efficient combustion akin to diesel engines but with lower greenhouse gas emissions. The research evaluates the effects of various geometric and operational parameters on the combustion process and emissions, including prechamber volume, nozzle diameter, direct injector (DI) geometry, and engine operating strategies. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are utilized, focusing on a heavy-duty, single-cylinder engine modeled after the Caterpillar C9.3B engine. Key findings indicate that a prechamber volume of 3 cc, coupled with a nozzle diameter of 2.75 mm for two prechamber holes, strikes an optimal balance between combustion efficiency and emissions reduction. This configuration ensures robust combustion across a range of operating conditions while maintaining methane slip within targeted limits. Further investigation into DI geometry shows the significance of the injector umbrella angle and nozzle diameter in shaping the fuel-air mixing and combustion dynamics. An umbrella angle of 130° and a nozzle diameter of 300 microns are identified as optimal, promoting rapid and efficient combustion with minimized methane and NOx emissions. The study also investigates the impact of injection timing and pressure, highlighting their roles in controlling combustion timing and influencing emissions levels. Advanced injection timing is found to be crucial in achieving the desired low methane slip, whereas retarded injection timing assists to reduce NOx emissions while having a slight increase in methane emissions. Operating strategies incorporating various levels of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) are assessed for their effectiveness in further reducing emissions. The research demonstrates that a judicious combination of internal hot EGR and careful calibration of DI pressure and SOI timing can achieve significant reductions in NOx emissions while keeping methane slip under control. Specifically, an internal EGR level of 15%–25%, combined with DI pressures of 200–300 bar and injection timings at or after top dead center, is recommended. These findings contribute valuable insights into the development of advanced combustion techniques for natural gas engines, offering a viable pathway to reduce methane slip without compromising engine efficiency or performance. The PC-MCC system presents a promising solution for the future of heavy-duty natural gas engine technology to reduce methane emissions.
Comparative analysis of a novel lightweight composite-void steel deck slab and conventional solid slab: Force carrying capacity, deflection, failure patterns, ductility and stiffness
Authors: Vinod Kumar M , Alzein Razan , Prakash R , Serkan Kırgız Mehmet , Manikandan D , Ramaswamy Shanmugam , Krishnaraj Ramaswamy
Published: November 2024

This study focuses on the development and assessment of advanced construction materials, such as a unique slab design, longitudinal void configurations, and profiled steel deck. The aim was to improve the efficiency of constructing reinforced composite buildings and enhance their visual attractiveness. In order to evaluate the strength and efficiency of these new developments, we carried out a thorough examination utilizing ANSYS Workbench. Our study specifically concentrated on analyzing the failure characteristics of nine slabs that were supported in a simple manner. The study conducted a thorough comparison of different factors, including the shapes of the voids and profiled steel decks, the presence of embossments and nodes, and the type of concrete utilized (conventional and light-weight using Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Polypropylene fibers). Our results from a thorough flexural analysis showed that slabs containing oval-shaped voids demonstrated the best performance in terms of structural stability and efficiency. In addition, the profiled steel deck, which includes embossments and dimples, demonstrated exceptional performance as a result of the improved mechanical connection, which was further demonstrated in the LightcompvoidSteelslab. The results indicate that incorporating oval voids and embossed steel sheets into slab construction has the potential to greatly enhance the mechanical characteristics and construction efficiency of composite buildings. This study provides valuable knowledge on the design and utilization of sophisticated composite materials in the construction sector, which could potentially result in more environmentally friendly and economically efficient building methods.
Effectiveness of Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Cell Therapy Alone is Not Enough for Effective Management of Chronic Wounds
Authors: Evstratova Ekaterina , Yatsenko Elena , Baranovskii Denis , Klabukov Ilya
Published: November 2024

We read with great interest the meta-analysis by Mudgal et al. (2024) regarding the effectiveness and safety assessment of stem cell therapy for diabetic foot ulcers. Indeed, The management of chronic wounds requires innovative approaches to avoid unsuccessful outcomes, and stromal cell therapies have emerged as a potential solution for soft tissue repair. A critical aspect of this therapeutic strategy is the role of mast cells in stimulating delayed inflammation through their interactions with various cells as well as the extracellular matrix. Mast cells are critical in orchestrating the inflammatory response and their activation can influence macrophage behavior and secondary healing efficacy. The use of mesenchymal stromal cells in regenerative medicine for diabetic foot ulcers treatment is often limited by their time-limited anti-inflammatory responses. However, these time-limited effects could not achieve the prolonged effects and impact of cell therapy efficacy and the potential enhancement of cell function by biologically active factors such as growth factors or gene therapeutics for prolonged release. The integration of cell and prolonged release gene therapeutics is a promising approach that goes beyond regenerative medicine by preventing secondary inflammatory complications. While mesenchymal stromal cells have shown promising results in experimental and clinical studies, there are limitations to their efficacy in regenerative medicine for diabetic foot ulcers. These limitations include the heterogeneity of cell populations used in the studies, the difficulty in determining the contribution of cells when used in combination with materials, the lack of data on optimal cell numbers for tissue repair, the effect of culture conditions on cell therapy efficacy, and the potential enhancement of cell efficacy by the use of additional biologics such as growth factors or gene therapeutics. The combination of cell and gene therapy is seen as a promising approach that goes beyond regenerative medicine into the field of molecular surgery of chronic wounds.
The recognition and assessment of pain in people with profound intellectual disabilities by nurses: An appreciative inquiry
Authors: Goodall Maeve , Irving Kate , Nevin Mary
Published: November 2024

Background

Individuals with profound intellectual disabilities are non-verbal and reliant on carers for pain recognition, assessment and management. Pain is a multifaceted and interconnected experience. Assessment tools designed specifically for this population are needed. This study aimed to develop methods for improved pain care practices by nurses.

Methods

This qualitative study followed the four phases of appreciative; Discovery, Dream, Design, Destiny. Eight nurses were recruited as co-researchers from one Irish intellectual disability organisation. Data were analysed from individual and focus group interviews, using thematic analysis and continuous reflexivity.

Results

A pain awareness campaign and RAPPID tool (recognition and assessment of pain in people with profound intellectual disabilities) were developed.

Conclusion

Respect for personhood in individuals with profound intellectual disabilities is reflected through holistic approaches to pain assessment. The empowerment of nurses enables positive change. Implicit knowledge can be communicated more proficiently with a formal, collaborative tool.
Journalism educators’ evaluations of conflict reporting and the imperatives for peace journalism in Nigeria
Authors: Ciboh Rodney , Torwel Vitalis , Jev Amos Asongo
Published: November 2024

This study examines current methods of reporting conflict in Nigeria from three perspectives: (i) how journalism academics regard current methods; (ii) what best reporting methods they recommend; and (iii) what kind of training they think is suitable for journalists who report conflicts. Participatory Action Research (PAR) was used as methodology and focus group discussion was conducted in three phases: evaluation, proposition and education. Answers suggest that current methods of reporting conflict are irresponsible and capable of discouraging nonviolent reactions to conflicts, that many journalists are prejudiced by ethnicity, religion and party politics that skew their reporting and that Nigeria needs peace journalism to obviate obstacles to peace. The study recommends mainstreaming conflict-sensitive reporting and peace journalism into the curricula of journalism education and training to improve the reporting of conflicts and terrorism. The authors believe that synergized policy between media and universities can profit from the values that conflict analysis and peace journalism offer.