bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial effects of switching to denosumab from bisphosphonates or selective estrogen receptor modulators in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes and osteopenia/osteoporosis
Authors: Miyoshi Arina , Kameda Hiraku , Nagai So , Nakamura Akinobu , Miya Aika , Takase Takahiro , Atsumi Tatsuya , Miyoshi Hideaki
Published: November 2020

Aims/Introduction

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus have a higher bone fracture risk than patients without diabetes. Although denosumab (Dmab) is a potent bone resorption inhibitor, its efficacy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus has not been elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effects of switching to Dmab from bisphosphonates (BP) or a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) in postmenopausal type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Materials and Methods

This was a three medical institutions, prospective, observational study for postmenopausal patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus whose T‐score of femoral neck or lumbar spine bone mineral density was under −1.0 standard deviation, even after >6 months of BP or SERM administration. After obtaining consent, participants were treated for osteopenia/osteoporosis by either continuing BP (BP‐BP group)/SERM (SERM‐SERM group), or by switching to Dmab (BP‐Dmab or SERM‐Dmab groups). Changes in bone mineral density and bone metabolism marker levels were evaluated after 6 months.

Results

A total of 48 patients were included in this study, and each group comprised 12 patients. No significant difference existed in baseline characteristics among the groups. The average age and glycated hemoglobin were 71 ± 8 years and 7.2 ± 0.9%, respectively. In the SERM‐Dmab group, lumbar spine bone mineral density was significantly increased by 5.0% compared with the SERM‐SERM group (P < 0.04). Serum bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b were significantly decreased in the BP‐Dmab and SERM‐Dmab groups compared with the BP‐BP and SERM‐SERM groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Switching to Dmab from BP or SERM is beneficial to prevent osteoporosis progression in postmenopausal patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.
High Sequence Divergence but Limited Architectural Rearrangements in Organelle Genomes of Cyanophora (Glaucophyta) Species
Authors: Russell Sarah , Jackson Christopher , Reyes‐Prieto Adrian
Published: November 2020

Cyanophora is the glaucophyte model taxon. Following the sequencing of the nuclear genome of C. paradoxa, studies based on single organelle and nuclear molecular markers revealed previously unrecognized species diversity within this glaucophyte genus. Here, we present the complete plastid (ptDNA) and mitochondrial (mtDNA) genomes of C. kugrensii, C. sudae, and C. biloba. The respective sizes and coding capacities of both ptDNAs and mtDNAs are conserved among Cyanophora species with only minor differences due to specific gene duplications. Organelle phylogenomic analyses consistently recover the species C. kugrensii and C. paradoxa as a clade and C. sudae and C. biloba as a separate group. The phylogenetic affiliations of the four Cyanophora species are consistent with architectural similarities shared at the organelle genomic level. Genetic distance estimations from both organelle sequences are also consistent with phylogenetic and architecture evidence. Comparative analyses confirm that the Cyanophora mitochondrial genes accumulate substitutions at 3‐fold higher rates than plastid counterparts, suggesting that mtDNA markers are more appropriate to investigate glaucophyte diversity and evolutionary events that occur at a population level. The study of complete organelle genomes is becoming the standard for species delimitation and is particularly relevant to study cryptic diversity in microbial groups.
The endocranial anatomy of Buriolestes schultzi (Dinosauria: Saurischia) and the early evolution of brain tissues in sauropodomorph dinosaurs
Authors: Müller Rodrigo T. , Ferreira José D. , Pretto Flávio A. , Bronzati Mario , Kerber Leonardo
Published: November 2020

Our knowledge on the anatomy of the first dinosaurs (Late Triassic, 235–205 Ma) has drastically increased in the last years, mainly due to several new findings of exceptionally well‐preserved specimens. Nevertheless, some structures such as the neurocranium and its associated structures (brain, labyrinth, cranial nerves, and vasculature) remain poorly known, especially due to the lack of specimens preserving a complete and articulated neurocranium. This study helps to fill this gap by investigating the endocranial cavity of one of the earliest sauropodomorphs, Buriolestes schultzi, from the Upper Triassic (Carnian—c. 233 Ma) of Brazil. The endocranial anatomy of this animal sheds light on the ancestral condition of the brain of sauropodomorphs, revealing an elongated olfactory tract combined to a relatively small pituitary gland and well‐developed flocculus of the cerebellum. These traits change drastically across the evolutionary history of sauropodomorphs, reaching the opposite morphology in Jurassic times. Furthermore, we present here the first calculations of the Reptile Encephalization Quotient (REQ) for a Triassic dinosaur. The REQ of B. schultzi is lower than that of Jurassic theropods, but higher than that of later sauropodomorphs. The combination of cerebral, dental, and postcranial data suggest that B. schultzi was an active small predator, able to track moving prey.
Anxiety of Nurses to support Wuhan in fighting against COVID‐19 Epidemic and its Correlation With Work Stress and Self‐efficacy
Authors: Mo Yuanyuan , Deng Lan , Zhang Liyan , Lang Qiuyan , Pang He , Liao Chunyan , Wang Nannan , Tao Pinyue , Huang Huiqiao
Published: November 2020

Aims and objectives

We aimed to investigate the anxiety of nurses who are supporting Wuhan in fighting against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection and explore relevant influencing factors.

Background

The COVID‐19 outbreak poses a major threat to public health worldwide. Nurses play an important role in this epidemic. However, available data on the mental health among these nurses are limited.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional survey was performed.

Methods

An online questionnaire was completed by 200 nurses who went to Wuhan to help to fight against COVID‐19 from another province. Data collection tools include the Chinese version of the Stress Overload Scale (SOS), the Self‐Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and General Self‐Efficacy Scale (GSES). Descriptive, single‐factor correlation and multiple regression analyses were used in exploring related influencing factors. Reporting followed the STROBE guidelines.

Results

The scores of SAS, SOS and GSES range from 20 to 80, 22 to 110 and 10 to 40, respectively, and the SAS (31.79 ± 7.32) and SOS (40.19 ± 12.92) and GSES scores (24.83 ± 6.60) were obtained. Anxiety was positively correlated with stress (r = .679, p < .001) but negatively correlated with self‐efficacy (r = −.326, p < .001). Multiple regression analysis showed that professional qualification, sleep, stress and self‐efficacy were the main factors affecting nurse anxiety (p = .006, <.001, <.001, .039, respectively).

Conclusions

Nurses who are supporting Wuhan in fighting against COVID‐19 were under a low level of anxiety.

Relevance to clinical practice

The current study suggests work stress reduction might be a key factor in reducing anxiety and maintaining mental health to support nurses who are fighting against COVID‐19 infection.
A scoping review of the integration of ethics education in undergraduate nursing high‐fidelity human simulation‐based learning
Authors: Sedgwick Monique , Yanicki Sharon , Harder Nicole , Scott David
Published: November 2020

Aims and objectives

To systematically assemble, examine and map the extant literature pertaining to the integration of ethics education in high‐fidelity simulation‐based learning experiences in nursing undergraduate programmes.

Background

The value of ethics education for undergraduate nursing students is well established in the literature. Whether high‐fidelity human simulation (HFHS) supports the development of ethical reasoning or positively impacts the acquisition of ethical knowledge and reasoning skills in undergraduate nursing students is inconsistently addressed.

Design

A scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley framework.

Method

CINAHL, ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Source, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses A&I, MEDLINE, Web of Science, ERIC, Scopus, PsycINFO, and the Joanna Briggs Institute EBP databases were searched for English‐language manuscripts published between 2012 and 2020. The PRISMA‐ScR was used.

Results

Eight papers that met the inclusion criteria were extracted for this review. Three broad categories were identified: the ‘what’ in ethics education, the ‘how’ of ethics education and the ‘when’ of ethics education in high‐fidelity human simulation.

Conclusion

The integration of ethics education into simulation‐based learning has the potential to positively promote nursing students' ability to develop knowledge of and skills in ethical practice. However, the inclusion of ethics education scenarios in HFHS is a relative new teaching innovation in undergraduate nursing education. As such, there continues to be no consensus on the ‘what’, ‘how’ or ‘when’ of ethics education for best practice in ethics education for undergraduate nursing programmes.

Relevance to clinical practice

Quality improvement processes and research studies are needed to determine: the types of ethical dilemmas and debriefing sessions and optimal timing of HFHS ethics simulation in undergraduate nursing education, student support needed for running HFHS, and the learning needs of nurse educators seeking to incorporate ethics within HFHS.
Pain assessment from Swedish nurses' perspective
Authors: Skog Nina , Mesic Mårtensson Mirella , Dykes Anna‐Karin , Vejzovic Vedrana
Published: November 2020

Methods

This study is a qualitative interview study. The authors used the stimulated recall interview (SRI) with nurses working at a children's hospital in southern Sweden for the data collection. In total twelve nurses were interviewed and qualitative content analysis was used for the data analysis.

Results

The results are presented as one theme: Need for higher competencies and evidence, and three categories: Routines can enable pain assessment, Trusting one's own assessment of the whole picture, and Pain assessment scales as an extra workload. The interviewed nurses acknowledged that pain assessment tools are a vital part of the field of pain treatment. They also had trust issues with measuring and estimating pain by means of a tool such as pain scale. Furthermore, their opinion was that too many different tools and methods add up towards a more blurry and stress‐related environment and due to a lack of consistent routines, pain assessment is seen as a work‐related burden in the daily routines.

Conclusion

Results from the present study indicated that nurses need clear routines in combination with continued education regarding pain assessment with pain scales, which might be the key to successful pediatric pain assessment and thus to better pain management within pediatrics.
Insomnia symptoms during pregnancy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Sedov Ivan D. , Anderson Nina J. , Dhillon Ashley K. , Tomfohr‐Madsen Lianne M.
Published: November 2020

Reports of sleep disturbances are common during pregnancy, yet estimates of prevalence of insomnia symptoms during pregnancy vary widely. The goals of the current review were to summarize the existing data on prevalence of insomnia symptoms during pregnancy and to explore potential moderators, including trimester, gestational age, maternal age, symptoms of anxiety and symptoms of depression. A systematic search of PubMed, PsycInfo and Web of Science was conducted for articles published from inception up to June 2020. In total, 24 studies with a total of 15,564 participants were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of insomnia symptoms during pregnancy was 38.2%. Trimester was a significant moderator, such that prevalence of insomnia symptoms was higher in the third trimester (39.7%) compared to first (25.3%) and second (27.2%) trimesters. No other variables significantly moderated the prevalence of insomnia symptoms. The results of the current meta‐analysis suggest that the prevalence of insomnia symptoms is higher during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. Future research should examine the efficacy and safety of insomnia treatments with this population.
Learning and Processing Multiple Languages: The More the Easier?
Authors: Festman Julia
Published: November 2020

This review scrutinizes the evidence concerning the factors that affect the ease with which multilinguals learn additional languages. First, I focus on language learning experiences that could help multilinguals acquire new languages (e.g., consequences of exposure, use of prior knowledge, biliteracy). I then discuss how multilinguals manage multiple languages and struggle with language control problems. By finally shedding more light onto effects of learning on the brain and the ways it adapts to the higher processing demands when having to manage multiple languages, it becomes clear that the key to understanding learning and processing of multiple languages lies in understanding the adaptive and dynamic nature of the brain. Although the brain is striving for efficient processing, environmental influences, communicative demands and genetic predispositions influence the learning and processing of multiple languages. I therefore suggest five specific effects related to multilingualism which may ease subsequent learning of multiple languages.
Low‐voltage shock impedance measurements: A false sense of security
Authors: Parwani Abdul Shokor , Lacour Philipp , Franke Philip , Reichert Uwe , Christoph Klein , Beiert Thomas , Supryn Rafal , Rangasamy Karthikeyan , Kull Tony , Hohendanner Felix , Heinzel Frank , Kucher Andreas , Boldt Leif‐Hendrik , Pieske Burkert , Blaschke Florian
Published: November 2020

Background

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators use low‐voltage shock impedance measurements to monitor the lead integrity. However, previous case reports suggest that low‐voltage shock impedance measurements may fail to detect insulation breaches that can cause life‐threatening electrical short circuits.

Methods and results

We report six cases of insulation breaches in transvenous defibrillation leads that were not obvious during standard interrogations and testing of the lead beforehand. In two cases, an electrical short circuit during commanded shock delivery for internal electrical cardioversion resulted in a total damage of the ICD generator. In one of these cases, commanded shock delivery induced ventricular fibrillation, which required external defibrillation. In two cases, a shock due to ventricular tachycardia was aborted as the shock impedance was less than 20 Ω. However, in both cases the tiny residual shock energy terminated the ventricular tachycardia. In contrast, in one case the residual energy of the aborted shock did not end ventricular fibrillation induced at defibrillator threshold testing. In one case, the ICD indicated an error code for a short circuit condition detected during an adequate shock delivery.

Conclusions

This case series illustrates that low‐voltage shock impedance measurements can fail to detect insulation breaches. These data suggest that in patients without a contraindication, traditional defibrillator threshold testing or high voltage synchronized shock at the time of device replacement should be considered.
Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator lead displacement
Authors: Vyas Sandip , Monkhouse Christopher , Srinivasan Neil , Lambiase Pier D.
Published: November 2020

A 52‐year‐old gentleman with a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S‐ICD) implanted in 2015 for primary prevention and a background of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy presented via remote monitoring alert (Boston Scientific Latitude NXT) with an aborted charge episode. The episode showed myopotential noise with baseline wander, and an urgent outpatient follow‐up was arranged. Upon investigation the S‐ICD lead had retracted to the pocket of the generator via a reel mechanism, wrapping the lead around the can. This was likely to be caused by insufficient suturing of the lead collar at the base of xiphisternum. The device had automatically disabled the SmartPass filter, which does not currently have an alert mechanism. This case highlights the rare occurrence of S‐ICD lead displacement and components of the SmartPass system which can provide an early warning to lead problems.
Diarrhea in the pediatric solid organ transplantation recipient: A multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and management
Authors: Chaudhuri Abanti , Goddard Elizabeth Anne , Green Michael , Ardura Monica I.
Published: November 2020

Diarrhea in the pediatric solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipient is a frequent complaint that is associated with significant morbidity and impaired quality of life. There are limited published data regarding the specific epidemiology, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment of diarrhea after SOT in children. Pediatric SOT recipients have an increased risk of developing diarrhea because of a generalized immunosuppressed state, epidemiologic exposures, and polypharmacy. There is a need to standardize the diagnostic evaluation of diarrhea in children after SOT to facilitate an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. Herein, we review the available published data and propose a systematic, stepwise approach to the evaluation of diarrhea in this high‐risk population, focusing on timely diagnosis of both infectious and non‐infectious causes, in order to provide focused management. Prospective studies are needed to better assess the true prevalence, risk factors for, etiologies, and complications of diarrhea in pediatric SOT patients that will guide optimal management. Development of effective vaccines and antiviral therapies for enteric viruses may also contribute to improved outcomes.
CD34+ selected peripheral blood Stem Cell Boost (SCB) for Poor Graft Function (PGF) or mixed chimerism in pediatric patients, after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: Results of a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Berger Massimo , Faraci Maura , Saglio Francesco , Giardino Stefano , Ernestina Vassallo Elena , Prete Arcangelo , Fagioli Franca
Published: November 2020

Background

PGF is historically associated with high morbidity and mortality after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT).

Methods

In this study, we report our multicenter experience on stem cell boost (SCB) for PGF, or incomplete donor engraftment, in 16 pediatric patients. Donors were HLA‐matched siblings (n = 4), unrelated donors (n = 11), or haploidentical family members (n = 1). Ten patients had two‐lineage cytopenia, 5 had one‐lineage cytopenia, and 1 had poor immunological reconstitution together with a low percentage of donor cell engraftment. A median of 6.6x106 selected CD34+/Kg was infused after 194 days from allo‐HSCT (48‐607).

Results

In 4 out of 5 patients, one‐lineage cytopenia was resolved, while among the 10 patients with two‐lineage cytopenia, 4 resolved both cytopenia, 5 resolved one‐lineage, and one did not respond. All patients reverted their mixed chimera to full donor chimera. OS was 56%, transplant‐related mortality (TRM) 32%, and RI 12%. The main causes of failure were related to infections with 4 out of 7 deaths caused by this.

Conclusions

SCB may rescue over 50% of patients with PGF after allo‐HSCT. An earlier treatment may reduce the infectious complications and improve survival.
Effects of a group‐based physical and cognitive intervention on social activity and quality of life for elderly people with dementia in a geriatric health service facility: a quasi‐randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tanaka Shigeya , Yamagami Tetsuya , Yamaguchi Haruyasu
Published: November 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of group‐based motor and cognitive‐combined intervention on social activity and quality of life.

Methods

This quasi‐randomised controlled trial included 31 elderly participants with dementia in a geriatric health service facility. Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention group (n = 16) or the control group (n = 15) by stratification of cognitive function. The 8‐week intervention program consisted of group exercise and cognitive stimulation twice per week for 45 min per session. Outcome measures were social activity in daily behaviour, cognitive function, apathy, muscle and grip strength, independence of activity of daily living, life‐space, and objective quality of life (QOL).

Results

Twenty‐five participants were analysed (10 in the control group, 15 in the intervention group). Analysis of covariance with covariates of age, gender, and baseline data showed a significant difference in social activity (F = 8.67, P = 0.008; significant decline in control group vs. maintenance in intervention group) and QOL (F = 9.74, P = 0.006; maintenance in control group vs. tendency of improvement in intervention group). A Wilcoxon signed‐rank test revealed that helping behaviour (P = 0.035) increased in the intervention group, whereas interest to the surrounding (P = 0.026) decreased in the control group.

Conclusions

Group‐based combined intervention for dementia is effective for maintaining social activity and QOL in a geriatric health service facility.
Age‐related alterations in the cerebrovasculature affect neurovascular coupling and BOLD fMRI responses: Insights from animal models of aging
Authors: Yabluchanskiy Andriy , Nyul‐Toth Adam , Csiszar Anna , Gulej Rafal , Saunders Debra , Towner Rheal , Turner Monroe , Zhao Yuguang , Abdelkari Dema , Rypma Bart , Tarantini Stefano
Published: November 2020

The present and future research efforts in cognitive neuroscience and psychophysiology rely on the measurement, understanding, and interpretation of blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to effectively investigate brain function. Aging and age‐associated pathophysiological processes change the structural and functional integrity of the cerebrovasculature which can significantly alter how the BOLD signal is recorded and interpreted. In order to gain an improved understanding of the benefits, drawbacks, and methodological implications for BOLD fMRI in the context of cognitive neuroscience, it is crucial to understand the cellular and molecular mechanism of age‐related vascular pathologies. This review discusses the multifaceted effects of aging and the contributions of age‐related pathologies on structural and functional integrity of the cerebral microcirculation as they has been investigated in animal models of aging, including age‐related alterations in neurovascular coupling responses, cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in microvascular damage, vascular rarefaction, blood–brain barrier disruption, senescence, humoral deficiencies as they relate to, and potentially introduce confounding factors in the interpretation of BOLD fMRI.
Through a Glass Darkly: How Natural Science and Technical Communities Looked at Social Science Advances in Understanding Risk
Authors: Goble Rob
Published: November 2020

This article is one piece in a series of articles that reflect on advances in ideas about risk made by social science over the past 40 years and more. It differs from the other articles: its focus is not on specific advances themselves, but rather on how those advances were received and were encouraged or discouraged by the natural science and technical members of the risk community. Thus, the principal goal of this article is to provide some context for the other articlers in this series. Those articles describe work and intellectual developments that consider human responses to particular sorts of issues, concerns, and needs that relate to risk. The framing of this work was partly driven and shaped by natural science and engineering communities. It is illuminating to reflect on how these technical communities viewed the social science developments and on the perspectives they brought to the framing of issues and concerns. Their views are described in three minihistories of risk developments pertaining to nuclear accidents, high level radioactive waste disposal, and toxic chemicals. After considering common themes among the stories, the article considers characteristics of expert communities and their implications. It then concludes with discussions of its secondary goals, (i) a look at some opportunities for future social science studies relating to risk, (ii) a consideration of the extent to which risk analysis and broader considerations of risk can be considered a truly interdisciplinary field rather than a loose assemblage of perspectives.
Simple interventions to assist students to engage with the language of data science and statistics
Authors: Richardson Alice M. , Dunn Peter K.
Published: November 2020

The focus of this paper is learning the language of data science and statistics through the use of simple classroom activities. Many terms in statistics are known to be lexically ambiguous, having one meaning in general English conversation and another, more technical, meaning in statistical English. The main aim is to investigate whether the classroom‐ready interventions proposed are perceived by students to be fun and helpful. A secondary aim is to measure students' ability to correctly define lexically ambiguous words at the start and end of the semester, and seek evidence of an association between the interventions and lexical disambiguation. Three types of interventions are studied: crosswords, gap‐fill exercises and a sorting exercise. The results from student evaluations of the activities show that, in general, students found the activities helpful and fun. There was also some moderate evidence of an improvement in disambiguation for statistical terms including significant, control and relationship.
Retrospective evaluation of the effects and outcome of bromethalin ingestion: 192 Dogs (2010–2016)
Authors: Scotti Katherine M. , Levy Nyssa A. , Thomas Alicia , Pfeifer Julie , Garcia Nicole , Koenigshof Amy
Published: November 2020

Objective

To evaluate the frequency of clinical signs, dose ingested, and outcome in a large group of dogs with bromethalin ingestion.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of dogs from 2010 to 2016.

Setting

Three university teaching hospitals and 1 private practice.

Animals

A total of 192 dogs with bromethalin ingestion.

Measurements and Main Results

Total 192 cases were identified, of which 25 dogs developed clinical signs. Five cases initially had severe neurological signs and were euthanized. A sum of 187 dogs survived to discharge. The total ingested dose was recorded in 59 dogs with a median (interquartile range) 0.2 mg/kg (0.28 mg/kg). The remaining 133 dogs had confirmed ingestion reported by owners (witnessed ingestion or colored feces) but the total dose could not be calculated. The median (interquartile range) time to presentation for all dogs was 2 hours (4.8 h). A majority of patients were treated on an outpatient basis (121/192) and 71 of 192 were treated as inpatients with 58 of 71 receiving fluid diuresis. Decontamination was performed in 179 dogs including emesis induction (14), activated charcoal administration (42), and both (123). Emesis was successful in 128 dogs and apomorphine was the most common emetic agent (121). Mild to severe clinical signs at admission were reported in 19 cases including vomiting (6), tremors (5), lethargy (4), ataxia (3), weakness (2), diarrhea (2), collapse (2), and and anorexia (2). One case developed ataxia and tremors within 72 hours of admission.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Symptoms of bromethalin toxicosis are uncommon, and most ingested doses are well below the reported dose expected to cause clinical signs. In this patient population, prognosis was excellent unless severe clinical signs were noted, which carried a high euthanasia rate. Effects of treatment on outcome could not be evaluated due to the low number of patients that developed clinical signs.
Evaluation of selected commercial oilseed rape cultivars for early vigour, weed suppression and yield in southern New South Wales
Authors: Mwendwa James M. , Brown William B. , Weston Paul A. , Haque K. M. Shamsul , Preston Christopher , Weston Leslie A.
Published: November 2020

The potential of oilseed rape to suppress weed growth while maintaining optimal yield and quality is not well understood under field conditions in Australia. This study, conducted in Condobolin and Wagga Wagga, New South Wales (NSW), during 2015 and 2016, examined a diverse range of commercial oilseed rape cultivars for their inherent ability to suppress weeds and maintain yields when in competition with natural weed infestations, with and without pre‐emergent herbicide treatment. Cultivar differences were observed in oilseed rape canopy architecture and yield; however, early‐season biomass, light interception, leaf area index and visual vigour ratings exhibited both year and location interactions. Cultivars with the highest biomass, light interception, leaf area indices and visual vigour were typically also the most weed‐suppressive, in particular GT‐50 and Hyola 600RR. Although crop and weed biomass accumulation differed significantly among cultivars for both location and year, weed biomass was inversely related to cultivar biomass in both years and locations. Hybrid Hyola and GT‐50 cultivars exhibited up to 50% less weed biomass while maintaining consistently high levels of dry crop biomass. In addition, pre‐emergent herbicide applications reduced weed infestation and contributed to higher crop yield in both locations and years. Given the consistent aboveground competitive ability of certain oilseed rape cultivars, our study demonstrated that diverse cultivar‐dependent competitive traits such as early growth vigour, biomass production, absorption of photosynthetically active radiation and production and retention of crop residue significantly impacted weed establishment and total weed biomass. Our findings suggest that cultivar selection offers potential as a tool for maintaining suitable grain yield in the presence of weeds while potentially delaying the development of herbicide resistance through efficacious weed suppression.
Assisted bathing of older people with dementia: a mixed methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Konno Rie , Kanzaki Hatsumi , Stern Cindy , Lizarondo Lucylynn
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this review update is to determine the best strategies for assisted bathing or showering of older people with dementia.

Introduction:

Bathing is a high-risk activity that can worsen agitated behavior in people with dementia, becoming a source of stress or burden for nurses and caregivers. Since a review was originally published in 2013, new studies have been conducted reporting on various interventions related to assisted bathing and showering.

Inclusion criteria:

The review will consider people older than 60 years with dementia, their families, nurses, and formal caregivers. The quantitative component will consider studies that examine interventions aiming to reduce agitated behaviors during assisted bathing. The qualitative component will include studies reporting on experiences of assisted bathing of older people with dementia.

Methods:

This review update will follow the JBI mixed methods review approach. Published and unpublished studies will be identified from searches of the major international databases and relevant databases for gray literature. Two independent reviewers will carry out screening, critical appraisal, and data extraction. The extracted data will include details about the study characteristics, quantitative results, and qualitative findings relevant to the review. Where possible, quantitative data will be statistically pooled. Qualitative results will be synthesized using the meta-aggregation approach developed by JBI. Finally, the findings from both quantitative and qualitative components will be organized into a line of argument to produce an overall configured analysis. Where configuration is not possible, the findings will be presented in narrative form.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42020208048
Factors influencing the recruitment and retention of female first responders: a mixed methods systematic review protocol
Authors: Frazer Helen , Van Hooff Miranda , Lawrence-Wood Ellie , Searle Amelia
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The objective of this review is to produce a set of integrated findings of quantitative and qualitative evidence regarding workplace recruitment and retention factors (including departure) of female first responders to inform recommendations for policy and practice.

Introduction:

Historically, first responder workforces such as police officers, firefighters, search and rescue personnel, medical technicians, and paramedics have been largely male dominated. Over the past few decades, however, there has been a steady increase in the number of women entering this field. However, there is minimal research examining factors that influence the recruitment/retention of female first responders. The intention of this review is to identify barriers and facilitators to recruitment and retention of female first responders and to identify any differences between sexes/genders.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will summarize qualitative and quantitative research examining factors influencing the recruitment/retention of female first responders. Such factors may include job satisfaction, quality of work life, burnout, compassion fatigue, and intent to remain in the workforce.

Methods:

MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (APA), PTSDpubs (formerly PILOTS; ProQuest), Embase (Elsevier), and Scopus (Elsevier) will be searched for studies published in English from 2009 to the present. Unpublished studies will be searched in Google Scholar, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. Both quantitative and qualitative studies will be screened for inclusion and critically appraised for methodological quality by two independent reviewers. Both types of data will be extracted using JBI tools for mixed methods systematic reviews. A convergent integrated approach to synthesis and integration will be used.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42020156524
Hypoxia gradually augments metabolic and thermoperceptual responsiveness to repeated whole‐body cold stress in humans
Authors: Keramidas Michail E. , Kölegård Roger , Eiken Ola
Published: November 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

In male lowlanders, does hypoxia modulate thermoregulatory effector responses during repeated whole‐body cold stress encountered in a single day?

What is the main finding and its importance?

A ∼10 h sustained exposure to hypoxia appears to mediate a gradual upregulation of endogenous heat production, preventing the progressive hypothermic response prompted by serial cold stimuli. Also, hypoxia progressively degrades mood, and compounds the perceived thermal discomfort, and sensations of fatigue and coldness.

We examined whether hypoxia would modulate thermoeffector responses during repeated cold stress encountered in a single day. Eleven men completed two ∼10 h sessions, while breathing, in normobaria, either normoxia or hypoxia (: 12 kPa). During each session, subjects underwent sequentially three 120 min immersions to the chest in 20°C water (CWI), interspersed by 120 min rewarming. In normoxia, the final drop in rectal temperature (Trec) was greater in the third (∼1.2°C) than in the first and second (∼0.9°C) CWIs (P < 0.05). The first hypoxic CWI augmented the Trec fall (∼1.2°C; P = 0.002), but the drop in Trec did not vary between the three hypoxic CWIs (P = 0.99). In normoxia, the metabolic heat production () was greater during the first half of the third CWI than during the corresponding part of the first CWI (P = 0.02); yet the difference was blunted during the second half of the CWIs (P = 0.89). In hypoxia, by contrast, the increase in was augmented by ∼25% throughout the third CWI (P < 0.01). Regardless of the breathing condition, the cold‐induced elevation in mean arterial pressure was blunted in the second and third CWI (P < 0.05). Hypoxia aggravated the sensation of coldness (P = 0.05) and thermal discomfort (P = 0.04) during the second half of the third CWI. The present findings therefore demonstrate that prolonged hypoxia mediates, in a gradual manner, metabolic and thermoperceptual sensitization to repeated cold stress.
Optimal Parametric Control of Nonlinear Random Vibrating Systems
Authors: Chang Wenwen , Jin Xiaoling , Huang Zhilong
Published: November 2020

Due to the great progresses in the fields of smart structures, especially smart soft materials and structures, the parametric control of nonlinear systems attracts extensive attentions in scientific and industrial communities. This paper devotes to the derivation of the optimal parametric control strategy for nonlinear random vibrating systems, in which the excitations are confined to Gaussian white noises. For a prescribed performance index balancing the control performance and control cost, the stochastic dynamic programming equation with respect to the value function is first derived by the principle of dynamic programming. The optimal feedback control law is established according to the extremum condition. The explicit expression of the value function is determined by approximately expressing as a quadratic function of state variables and by solving the final dynamic programming equation. The application and efficacy of the optimal parametric control are illustrated by a random-excited Duffing oscillator and a dielectric elastomer balloon with random pressure. The numerical results show that the optimal parameter control possesses good effectiveness, high efficiency, and high robustness to excitation intensity, and is superior than the associated optimal bounded parametric control.
Insight Into the Non Periodic Motion of the Knife Follower With a Polydyne Cam Mechanism
Authors: Yousuf Louay S. , Dabool Yaakob K. H.
Published: November 2020

A polydyne cam and knife follower system are studied. The effect of cam angular velocity and follower guides internal dimensions on Lyapunov parameter is considered. Wolf algorithm is used to quantify largest Lyapunov exponent parameter. The impact between the cam, follower and the two guides is occurred due to the impulse and momentum phenomenon. Positive value of Lyapunov exponent parameter indicates to non-periodic motion and chaos for the follower. Non-periodic motion is examined using power spectrum analysis of Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and phase plane diagram. The numerical simulation has been done using SolidWorks software. Follower movement is processed experimentally through an infrared 3-D camera device with a high precision optical sensor. A polydyne cam and knife follower system are studied. The effect of cam angular velocity and follower guides internal dimensions on Lyapunov parameter is considered. Wolf algorithm is used to quantify largest Lya-punov exponent parameter. The impact between the cam, follower and the two guides is occurred due to the impulse and momentum phenomenon. Positive value of Lyapunov exponent parameter indicates to non-periodic motion and chaos for the follower. Non-periodic motion is examined using power spectrum analysis of Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and phase plane diagram. The numerical simulation has been done using Solid-Works software. Follower movement is processed experimentally through an infrared 3-D camera device with a high precision optical sensor. The simulation and experimental results are compared and verified for non-periodic motion of the follower. The follower motion is non-periodic when the orbit of phase-plane diagram diverges with no limit of spiral cycles.
Design of a Piping Inspection Robot by Optimization Approach
Authors: Venkateswaran Swaminath , Chablat Damien , Hamon Pol
Published: November 2020

This article presents an optimization approach for the design of an inspection robot that can move inside variable diameter pipelines having bends and junctions. The inspection robot uses a mechanical design that mimics the locomotion of a caterpillar. The existing prototype developed at LS2N, France is a rigid model that makes it feasible for working only inside straight pipelines. By the addition of a tensegrity mechanism between motor units, the robot is made reconfigurable. However, the motor units used in the prototype are oversized to pass through pipe bends or junctions. An optimization approach is employed to determine the dimensions of motors and their associated leg mechanisms that can overcome such bends. Two optimization problems are defined and solved in this article. The first problem deals with the determination of motor sizing without leg mechanisms. The second problem deals with the determination of sizing of the leg mechanism with respect to the dimensions of motor units obtained from the first problem. A 3D model of the optimized robot design is then realized using CAD software.
Who, What, and When? Exploring Student Focus in the Capstone Design Experience
Authors: Ball Zachary , Bessette Jonathan , Lewis Kemper
Published: November 2020

Product development is a key component of engineering education taught at a number of universities through their capstone design course. This course provides students with an opportunity to apply their newly obtained knowledge in engineering to design, build, and test working prototypes. This educational approach also encourages students to place additional attention on time and group management. As students walk through the design process, their focus fluctuates between group organization, product development, and course deliverables. This paper observes this variation in focus to extract key insights related to who is focusing on what and when. Data was collected in the form of individual project journals for each student and these provide a detailed look into the design activities throughout the semester allowing for a focus mapping from week to week. The focus of each student is quantified by a topic distribution of each student’s weekly journal entries, automatically extracted using Latent Dirichlet Allocation. Our results place emphasis on the topic identification accuracy and interpretation, before identifying trends found that separate high performing students and groups from those with poor performances. It was found that efficient time management focusing on the required course deliverables, and group cohesion led to the most impactful performance variations. Using this knowledge, we identify future directions supporting the pedagogy for capstone projects.
A Continuously Tunable Stiffness Arm With Cable-Driven Mechanisms for Safe Physical Human-Robot Interaction
Authors: She Yu , Gu Zhaoyuan , Song Siyang , Su Hai-Jun , Wang Junmin
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we present a continuously tunable stiffness arm for safe physical human-robot interactions. Compliant joints and compliant links are two typical solutions to address safety issues for physical human-robot interaction via introducing mechanical compliance to robotic systems. While extensive studies explore variable stiffness joints/actuators, variable stiffness links for safe physical human-robot interactions are much less studied. This paper details the design and modeling of a compliant robotic arm whose stiffness can be continuously tuned via cable-driven mechanisms actuated by a single servo motor. Specifically, a 3D printed compliant robotic arm is prototyped and tested by static experiments, and an analytical model of the variable stiffness arm is derived and validated by testing. The results show that the lateral stiffness of the robot arm can achieve a variety of 221.26% given a morphing angle of 90°. The study demonstrates that the compliant link design could be a promising approach to address safety concerns for safe physical human-robot interactions.
Deconstruction of Idea Generation Methods Into a Framework of Creativity Mechanisms
Authors: Kirjavainen Senni , Hölttä-Otto Katja
Published: November 2020

Creative ideas are a central part of solving engineering problems, generating interesting art, as well as developing successful products and innovations. Idea generation methods are a well-researched topic. Specifically, there is significant research that focuses on specific idea generation methods and how they perform. Further, some method classifications have been suggested to help understand the cognitive mechanisms involved in creative ideation as well as the differences between methods. Yet, the discourse is usually on which ideation method outperforms another or how to improve an ideation method rather than the elements, rules, constraints, and activities that comprise ideation methods. In this study 76 well-documented idea generation methods are reviewed and analyzed. We find all analyzed methods consist of 25 mechanisms. The mechanisms are discussed and classified into idea promoting and implementation mechanisms. We suggest that rather than focusing research only on methods, there should be a parallel track of research creating understanding on these mechanisms and their interactions to help increase our understanding of creativity methods, add practitioners understanding on how to get the best advantages out of creativity methods and lastly improve the way practical creativity is approached in education.
Design, Mobility and Kinematics Analysis of a Novel Reconfigurable Continuum Shape Morphing Mechanism
Authors: Zhao Yinjun , Tian Yingzhong , Li Long , Yuan Guangjie , Xi Fengfeng
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a novel design for morphing mechanisms that combine the passive lockable reconfigurable variable geometry truss manipulator (VGTM) and the active parallel compliant mechanism. The structure of the VGTM is in a parallel-serial structure and its shape can be fully controlled just by using two active panels. This mechanism is suitable for the aerospace application due to its light, compact structure, load-carrying ability and can achieve multiple degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) deformation. The mobility and topological configuration of the mechanism are thoroughly analyzed. To make the moving process simple and efficient, a control strategy combining the approximate motion mode and the precise motion modes was proposed. The kinematic models for the multi-step motion are established and all solved analytically. At last, a prototype was fabricated to show the structure and the application on morphing wings.