bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sleep maths: A strong correlation between more daytime light and better night-time sleep
Authors: Figueiro MG , Jarboe C , Sahin L
Published: July 2021

Lighting for workplaces and schools is typically specified to meet the needs of the visual system without sufficient regard to the lighting characteristics that are required by the human circadian system. In 2020, many workers and students were compelled by the COVID-19 pandemic to work and study from home, where light levels are typically even lower than those found in most schools and workplaces. Using online surveys, this study sought to quantify potential changes in daytime light exposures resulting from teleworking or self-isolating at home and how those changes might have affected self-reported sleep quality, psychological health and emotional health. The first survey was administered in early May 2020, and the second survey was administered in September 2020. In broad terms, our analysis indicates that the greater the amount of light one is exposed to during the day (either in the home or outdoors), the better the self-reported sleep outcomes. Stress and mood were also correlated with greater self-reported daytime light exposures. The results suggest that spending one to two hours outdoors or staying in a bright to very bright room indoors may improve night-time sleep. These results have important implications for daytime lighting in homes, offices and schools.
Considerations on how to light the night-shift
Authors: Lowden A , Kecklund G
Published: July 2021

Electric lighting has decreased dependence on natural light to illuminate the workplace. Humans are genetically predisposed to be day-oriented (diurnal) and depend on daylight to regulate circadian rhythms. Shift work will force workers to sleep and work at non-biological times, inducing circadian disruption with implications for workers’ safety and health. The scientific literature may be used in practice in shift work settings to improve safety, performance and health in the workplace by reducing circadian misalignment. Alertness profiles at work and degree of melatonin suppression may indicate degree of circadian disruption among workers. However, when considering lighting solutions at night, there are several factors that need consideration. Light measures based on biological effectiveness should be used rather than room illuminance giving better predictions of performance and long-term health among workers. Also, large individual differences in light sensitivity and preferences suggest not only to rely on common lighting alone but also to implement complementary individual lighting solutions at work. Lighting advice should consider shift scheduling characteristics such as speed of turnover and shift timing to guide decisions of preferred circadian phase influence. Lighting should also include the flexibility to be fit for morning, afternoon and evening work.
Fundamentals of circadian entrainment by light
Authors: Foster RG
Published: July 2021

Light at dawn and dusk is the key signal for the entrainment of the circadian clock. Light at dusk delays the clock. Light at dawn advances the clock. The threshold for human entrainment requires relatively bright light for a long duration, but the precise irradiance/duration relationships for photoentrainment have yet to be fully defined. Photoentrainment is achieved by a network of photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (pRGCs) which utilise the short-wavelength light-sensitive photopigment, melanopsin. Although rods and cones are not required, they do play a role in photoentrainment, by projecting to and modulating the endogenous photosensitivity of the pRGCs, but in a manner that remains poorly understood. It is also important to emphasise that the age and prior light exposure of an individual will modify the efficacy of entrainment stimuli. Because of the complexity of photoreceptor interactions, attempts to develop evidence-based human centric lighting are not straightforward. We need to study how humans respond to dynamic light exposure in the ‘real world’ where light intensity, duration, spectral quality and the time of exposure vary greatly. Defining these parameters will allow the development of electric lighting systems that will enhance human circadian entrainment.
Synergistically improved flame retardancy of the cotton fabric finished by silica-coupling agent-zinc borate hybrid sol
Authors: Li Dan , Wang Zhen-hua , Zhu Yuan-shu , You Fei , Zhou Song-tao , Li Gang , Zhang Xue-feng , Zhou Chang
Published: July 2021

The sol-gel process has been applied to cotton fabrics to cover the fibers with a silica-based film, which can improve their thermal oxidation and combustion behaviors. Silica sol, silane coupling agent 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH560) and flame retardant zinc borate (ZB) are used together to prepare SiO2-KH560-ZB hybrid sol, which is then finished on the surface of cotton fabric through impregnation and baking. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), limiting oxygen index analysis (LOI) and microscale combustion calorimetry (MCC) are used to characterize functional groups, thermal stability and flammability properties of finished fabrics. Surface morphology of sol modified cotton fabrics are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX). Results show the sols are successfully converted into gel coatings onto cotton fabrics, and continuous smoldering phenomenon of resulted fabrics disappears. ΔLOI/Δm of SiO2-KH560-ZB coated cotton fabric reaches the highest of 0.37%/g, char residue rate is as high as 28.43% and the peak heat release rate (PHRR) is reduced by 26.9% (83.7 W/g). KH560 has a significant coupling effect on combining components in the sol system and increases compatibility between sols and cotton fabrics. ZB (cooling, separation, dilution and suppression), silica sol (physical barrier) and KH560 show excellent synergistic effects in enhancing overall flame retardancy.
Preliminary Experience With Transcranial Doppler Monitoring in Patients Undergoing Carotid Artery Revascularization: Initial Observations on Cerebral Embolization Patterns
Authors: Tok Cekmecelioglu Busra , Legeza Peter , Sinha Kavya , Tekula Pooja , Lumsden Alan , Garami Zsolt
Published: July 2021

Intraoperative transcranial Doppler (TCD) monitoring allows us to see intracranial blood flow changes related to endovascular and surgical manipulation in real time. This study evaluates the results of TCD monitoring during transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) with flow reversal, carotid endarterectomy (CEA) without shunt, with a shunt (shCEA), and transfemoral carotid artery stenting (tfCAS) with distal filter protection. Patients who underwent carotid artery revascularization with TCD monitoring were included. Patient demographics and medical history were recorded based on medical documentation. Intraoperative TCD, hemodynamics, fluoroscopy images, and surgical manipulation were recorded simultaneously with a 4-channel video recording system, and based on the recordings, the number of high-intensity signals (HITS) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow changes were registered. HITS during contrast injections were not included in the analysis due to the high number of artifacts. HITS were compared between the four groups, and HITS during lesion crossing/predilation/stent deployment/postdilation were compared between the tfCAS and TCAR groups. Thirty six patients were involved (mean age 69.5 ± 10.59 years; 24 male) (9 CEA; 11 shCEA; 4 tfCAS; 12 TCAR). Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and smoking were frequent in all groups. Median number of HITS for CEA, shCEA, tfCAS, and TCAR were 5 (range: 0-90), 10 (range: 3-72), 197.5 (range: 153-340), and 29 (range: 2-74), respectively. The number of HITS during TCAR was not significantly different compared to CEA or shCEA but significantly lower than in patients receiving tfCAS ( P < .01). Procedural phases of lesion crossing, predilation, stent deployment, and postdilation were associated with significantly higher HITS during tfCAS than TCAR ( P = .002, P = .006, P = .04, P = .006, respectively). The number of embolic events during TCAR is comparable with CEA with and without a shunt and associated with a significantly lower HITS rate than tfCAS with distal filter protection. According to our results, TCAR appears to be a safer alternative to tfCAS.
Outcome Metrics in the Treatment of Distal Radius Fractures in Patients Aged Above 50 Years: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fogel Nathaniel , Mertz Kevin , Shapiro Lauren M. , Roe Allison , Denduluri Sahitya , Kamal Robin N.
Published: July 2021

Background

The inclusion of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) serves to better quantify aspects of patient outcomes missed with objective measures, including radiographic indices and physical examination findings. We hypothesize that PROMs are inconsistently and heterogeneously captured in the treatment of distal radius fractures.

Methods

We performed a systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines of all level I and II randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of distal radius fracture treatment of any modality for those older than 50 years of age from January 2008 to January 2018. A total of 23 studies were included in the final analysis. The metrics used by each study to assess outcomes were collected, compared, and described.

Results

Physical examination findings and radiographic measures were reported in 70% and 74% of studies, respectively. Patient-reported outcomes measures were used to assess outcomes in 74% of studies. Only the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand was used in greater than half of the studies (57%). Pain scores were assessed in 39% of studies and complications in only 26%.

Conclusions

There is substantial heterogeneity and lack of standardization in the collection of both objective outcome measures and PROMs in level I and II RCTs for the treatment of distal radius fractures. The ability to compare between studies or aggregate data among studies is therefore limited. Radiographic and physical examination findings remain frequently reported despite known limitations of these metrics. The routine collection of PROMs after the treatment of distal radius fractures can ensure care is directed toward improving what is most important to patients.
Radial Tunnel Syndrome: Case Report and Comprehensive Critical Review of a Compression Neuropathy Surrounded by Controversy
Authors: Ang G. Gleda , Bolzonello David G. , Johnstone Bruce R.
Published: July 2021

Radial tunnel syndrome (RTS) is an uncommon controversial entity thought to cause chronic lateral proximal forearm pain due to compression of the deep branch of the radial nerve, without paralysis or sensory changes. Diagnostic confusion for pain conditions in this region results from inconsistent definitions, terminology, tests, and descriptions in the literature of RTS and “tennis elbow,” or lateral epicondylitis. A case of bilateral RTS with signs discordant with traditionally used clinical diagnostic tests was successfully relieved with surgical decompression and led us to perform a comprehensive critical review of the condition. We delineate the controversy surrounding its diagnosis and aim to facilitate appropriate management and identify other areas for further study in this controversial condition. Clinical validity and evidence of anatomical rationale for the traditionally used Maudsley’s provocative test is unclear in diagnosis of RTS or in chronic lateral elbow pain, if at all. Neither imaging nor electrophysiological studies contribute to a clinical diagnosis which is supported by short-term improvement after an injection with long-acting local anesthetic and corticosteroid. Accurate diagnosis and treatment of RTS can significantly improve quality of life, but validity and evidence for traditional clinical tests and definitions must be clarified.
Vision-based transverse vibration displacement measurement of hoisting vertical ropes in mine hoists
Authors: Wu Ganggang , Xiao Xingming , Ma Chi , Jiang Yuqiang
Published: July 2021

At present, there is no appropriate way to measure the transverse vibration response of moving hoisting vertical rope in hoist. Therefore, a vision-based measurement method combining the digital image correlation (DIC) and digital image processing (DIP) algorithms is proposed in this paper. In this method, a reference line perpendicular to the vertical ropes is added in image sequence by DIP algorithm to form some virtual cross targets, which makes the improved DIC algorithm with adaptive template updating (ATU) rule can track the moving hoisting vertical rope without any labels. Then for distinguishing all ropes in the measuring area, a displacement threshold is set to locate the current measured rope and exclude the other ropes. The transverse vibration displacements of the hoisting vertical rope in an actual mine hoist was measured in three background situations, verifying the feasibility of the proposed method. Moreover, in a laboratory artificial vibration test, the measurement results from the proposed vision method and a laser displacement sensor yielded a very good agreement. The two experimental results indicate that it is fairly reasonable and effective to measure the transverse vibration displacements of hoisting vertical ropes.
Optimization of pumps as turbines blades based on SVM-HDMR model and PSO algorithm
Authors: Jiang Bingxiao , Yang Junhu , Wang Xiaohui , Miao Senchun , Bai Xiaobang
Published: July 2021

In view of the poor performance of pumps as turbines (PAT) operation, and the problem that the structural parameters cannot be optimized in the whole domain, the hybrid model of support vector machine (SVM) model and high-dimensional model representation (HDMR) method is applied to the optimization of PAT blade. Specifically, a PAT was selected, and the surrogate model for PAT blade optimization was constructed with MATLAB, Creo, and ANSYS software. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was used to predict the performance data by global optimization. Finally, numerical prediction and experimental methods were used to verify the predicted data. These proved the applicability of the hybrid model in the optimization of fluid machinery. The numerical simulation results show that at the optimal operating point, the numerical simulation efficiency of the optimized PAT is 5.49% higher than that of the prototype PAT, and the output power is 7.2% higher. The test results show that the external characteristic curve of the numerical simulation PAT is basically consistent with the test results. At the optimal operating point, the test efficiency of the optimized PAT is 5.1% higher than that of the prototype PAT, and the output power is 6.9% higher.
A modular design method based on TRIZ and AD and its application to cutter changing robot
Authors: Yang Mei , Xia Yimin , Jia Lianhui , Wang Dujuan , Ji Zhiyong
Published: July 2021

Modular design, Axiomatic design (AD) and Theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) have been increasingly popularized in concept design of modern mechanical product. Each method has their own advantages and drawbacks. The benefit of modular design is reducing the product design period, and AD has the capability of problem analysis, while TRIZ’s expertise is innovative idea generation. According to the complementarity of these three approaches, an innovative and systematic methodology is proposed to design big complex mechanical system. Firstly, the module partition is executed based on scenario decomposition. Then, the behavior attributes of modules are listed to find the design contradiction, including motion form, spatial constraints, and performance requirements. TRIZ tools are employed to deal with the contradictions between behavior attributes. The decomposition and mapping of functional requirements and design parameters are carried out to construct the structural hierarchy of each module. Then, modules are integrated considering the connections between each other. Finally, the operation steps in application scenario are designed in temporal and spatial dimensions. Design of cutter changing robot for shield tunneling machine is taken as an example to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Magneto hydrodynamic and dissipated nanofluid flow over an unsteady turning disk
Authors: Gul Taza , Usman Muhammad , Khan Imran , Nasir Saleem , Saeed Anwar , Khan Amir , Ishaq Muhammad
Published: July 2021

A modern development in the field of fluid dynamics emphasizes on nanofluids which maintain remarkable thermal conductivity properties and intensify the transport features of heat in fluids. The present communication provides an innovative idea of MHD (magneto-hydrodynamics) unsteady, incompressible nanoliquid flow due to the stretching rotating disk with the effect of Joule heating and dissipation. The engine oil is used as a carrier fluid for an immersed rotating disk. A special type of nanoliquid, which consists of cylindrical shape nano materials CNTs (Carbon Nanotubes), is being taken into an account. The CNTs are assembled of both single and multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Some other factors such as the effect of joule heating and viscus dispassion are also used in this investigation. The foremost set of PDEs (Partial Differential Equations) of our model is reformed to the dimensionless form via invoking suitable variables. The resultant set of equations is sketched out through RK-4 method. Furthermore, the velocity profile and energy distribution versus dimensionless flow factors have been sketched and discussed. Also, the outcomes of important engineering curiosity like Nusselt number and skin friction are depicted and interpreted by taking various model factors. Radial and transverse velocity fields, declines via [Formula: see text] (magnetic factor), while the temperature field enhances. Furthermore, the larger estimation of [Formula: see text] leads to enhance the velocity field while higher estimation of [Formula: see text] reducing the velocity and temperature fields. The current work has an extensive verity use such as nano-mechanics and electro-magnetic micro pumps.
Design and experiment of multi-mode steering system of agricultural machinery for hilly and mountainous area
Authors: Hu Kai , Zhang Wenyi
Published: July 2021

In order to improve the steering flexibility of agricultural machinery in hilly and mountainous areas, a multi-mode steering system with front wheel steering, rear wheel steering, and four-wheel steering has been developed. The hydraulic steering system based on load sensitivity principle and proportion-integration-differentiation (PID) controlling algorithm was designed, which overcomes the negative impact of external load changes on flow control accuracy. The mechanical-hydraulic-controlling coupling model established in the AMESim and the sequential quadratic combinatorial optimization algorithm (SQCOA) was adopted to obtain the optimal combination of PID parameters. The simulation results demonstrate that the parameters such as pressure, speed, displacement of hydraulic cylinders, etc. in different steering modes meet the design requirements. To examine and verify the system performance, the test platform was researched and developed for conducting steering radius and displacement measurement. The experimental data illustrated that the front and rear hydraulic cylinders have good synchronization accuracy in four-wheel steering mode, and the fast switch of steering mode can be realized. The maximum error rate of is steering radius 4.21% and 3.77%, respectively, in two-wheel steering and four-wheel steering modes. The research methods and conclusions can provide a theoretical basis and reference for the other steering system development.
Ion channels and pain in Fabry disease
Authors: Weissmann Carina , Albanese Adriana A , Contreras Natalia E , Gobetto María N , Castellanos Libia C Salinas , Uchitel Osvaldo D
Published: July 2021

Fabry disease (FD) is a progressive, X-linked inherited disorder of glycosphingolipid metabolism due to deficient or absent lysosomal α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) activity which results in progressive accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and related metabolites. One prominent feature of Fabry disease is neuropathic pain. Accumulation of Gb3 has been documented in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) as well as other neurons, and has lately been associated with the mechanism of pain though the pathophysiology is still unclear. Small fiber (SF) neuropathy in FD differs from other entities in several aspects related to the perception of pain, alteration of fibers as well as drug therapies used in the practice with patients, with therapies far from satisfying. In order to develop better treatments, more information on the underlying mechanisms of pain is needed. Research in neuropathy has gained momentum from the development of preclinical models where different aspects of pain can be modelled and further analyzed. This review aims at describing the different in vitro and FD animal models that have been used so far, as well as some of the insights gained from their use. We focus especially in recent findings associated with ion channel alterations -that apart from the vascular alterations-, could provide targets for improved therapies in pain.
Comprehensive Effects of Short-Term Rental Platforms Across Hotel Types in U.S. and International Destinations
Authors: O’Neill John W. , Yeon Jihwan
Published: July 2021

In recent years, short-term rental platforms in the lodging sector, including Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway, have received extensive attention and emerged as potentially alternative suppliers of services traditionally provided by established commercial accommodation providers, that is, hotels. Short-term rentals have dramatically increased the available supply of rooms for visitors to multiple international destinations, potentially siphoning demand away from hotels to short-term rental businesses. In a competitive market, an increase in supply with constant demand would negatively influence incumbent service providers. In this article, we examine the substitution effects of short-term rental supply on hotel performance in different cities around the world. Specifically, we comprehensively investigate the substitution effects of short-term rental supply on hotel performance based on hotel class, location type, and region. Furthermore, we segment the short-term rental supply based on its types of accommodations, that is, shared rooms, private rooms, and entire homes, and both examine and quantify the differential effects of these types of short-term rentals on different types of hotels. This study offers a comprehensive analysis regarding the impact of multiple short-term rental platforms on hotel performance and offers both conceptual and practical insights regarding the nature and extent of the effects that were identified.
Campaign Advertising and the Cultivation of Crime Worry: Testing Relationships With Two Large Datasets From the 2016 U.S. Election Cycle
Authors: Liu Jiawei , Avery Rosemary J. , Fowler Erika F. , Baum Laura , Gollust Sarah E. , Barry Colleen L. , Welch Brendan , Tabor Emmett , Lee Nathaniel W. , Niederdeppe Jeff
Published: July 2021

Previous research has documented that political information in the mass media can shape attitudes and behaviors beyond voter choice and election turnout. The current study extends this body of work to examine associations between televised political campaign advertising (one of the most common forms of political communication people encounter) and worry about crime and violence in the context of the 2016 U.S. presidential election. We merge two large datasets—Kantar/CMAG data on televised campaign advertisement airings ( n = 3,767,477) and Simmons National Consumer Survey (NCS) data on television viewing patterns and public attitudes ( n = 26,703 respondents in the United States)—to test associations between estimated exposure to campaign ads about crime and crime worry, controlling for demographics, local crime rates, and political factors. Results from multivariate models show that estimated cumulative exposure to campaign ads about crime is associated with higher levels of crime worry. Exposure to campaign ads about crime increased crime worry among Republicans, but not Democrats.
The ‘Palestine poster’ and everyday memoricide: Making killing memory mundane
Authors: Webster Scott
Published: July 2021

This article looks at the Liberation Graphics Collection of Palestine Posters – a collection of 1600 ‘Palestine posters’ submitted to UNESCO’s Memory of the World programme during its 2014–2015 and 2016–2017 rounds. Despite receiving unanimous support for inscription, this nomination was effectively vetoed twice by UNESCO’s Director-General. The Collection frames the Palestine poster as ‘an essential medium through which Palestinians communicated their aspirations and international supporters expressed their solidarity’. Among these aspirations is a desire to identify and expose Israeli memoricide (‘the killing of memory’). Importantly, symbols like the house-key and olive tree transform otherwise mundane objects into potent signifiers calling attention to how memoricidal processes impacted spaces beyond the high-profile. Conversely, by drawing upon Zionist posters collected within the more expansive Palestine Poster Project Archives online, my analysis also explores the reconstructive side of memoricide. These materials simultaneously facilitate and obfuscate the killing of memory. Memoricide becomes normalised, a mundane (and thus invisible) facet of everyday life, practised by ordinary people.
Women in neurosurgery and interventional neuroradiology in Brazil and other countries: can lightning strike the same place twice?
Authors: Maranha Gatto Luana Antunes , Galdino Chaves Jennyfer Paula
Published: July 2021

Background

Neurosurgery is historically a specialty with a wide male predominance. Interventional neuroradiology, considered in many countries to be a subspecialty of neurosurgery (but also radiology and neurology), has never been the setting for this discussion, but the even greater gender inequality of professionals working in this area is well known.

Aims

The initial objective of this research was to describe the personal and professional profile of the few women in Brazil who practise neurosurgery and interventional neuroradiology, and the difficulties they encountered throughout their careers just because they are women. However, the shocking stories they experienced led the team to expand searches around the world, obtaining data from some other countries, mainly in South America. Machismo, harassment, misogyny, discrimination and wage inequality go beyond borders.

Discussion

Current times do not allow these situations anymore, but which, according to the narrative descriptions of 28 interventional neuroradiology women interviewed, still occur very frequently. A more inclusive vision must be sought by interventional neuroradiology societies, and it is up to the leaders to take care of those who need more attention (which does not mean they are more fragile).
Digital work engagement among Italian neurologists
Authors: Brigo Francesco , Ponzano Marta , Sormani Maria Pia , Clerico Marinella , Abbadessa Gianmarco , Cossu Giovanni , Trojsi Francesca , Colucci Fabiana , Tortorella Carla , Miele Giuseppina , Spina Emanuele , Artusi Carlo Alberto , Carmisciano Luca , Servillo Giovanna , Bozzali Marco , Sparaco Maddalena , Leocani Letizia , Lanzillo Roberta , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Bonavita Simona , Lavorgna Luigi
Published: July 2021

Background:

Digital health, including telemedicine, is increasingly recommended for the management of chronic neurological disorders, and it has changed the roles of patients and clinicians.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study we aimed to investigate the digital work engagement of Italian neurologists through a survey collected between September 2020 and January 2021. Questionnaires were anonymous and collected demographic characteristics, attitudes towards digital devices and social media, and details about the clinician–patient relationship. We used logistic-regression models to identify characteristics associated with the propensity to communicate with patients using social media.

Results:

Among the 553 neurologists who participated to the study, smartphones and computers were widely preferred compared with tablets; wearable devices were not common, although some neurologists desired them. A total of 48% of participants reported communicating with patients using social media but only a few were in favor of social friendship with patients; WhatsApp was the social media most popular for professional (86%) and personal (98%) purposes. Propensity to communicate with social media was significantly higher among those who were older ( p < 0.001) and lived in regions outside northern Italy (center: p = 0.006; south and the islands: p < 0.001). For 58% of responders, social media improved their relationship with patients, but 72% usually warned patients about unreliable websites.

Conclusions:

The preferred social media were those which were rapid and which safeguard privacy more effectively; neurologists made many efforts to disprove fake news circulating online, providing help to patients in various ways. This analysis can help direct future interventions for the management of chronic neurological disorders.
China’s evolving humanitarian diplomacy: Evidence from China’s disaster-related aid to Nepal
Authors: Lin Peng
Published: July 2021

Engaging in disaster relief and, more recently, post-disaster reconstruction in developing countries with critical geoeconomic and geopolitical interests has become an increasingly regular and institutionalized component of China’s evolving humanitarian diplomacy over the past decade. Drawn upon novel evidence from China’s growing disaster-related humanitarian assistance to Nepal and unprecedented engagement in Nepal’s long-term post-earthquake rebuild since 2015, this article explores the dynamics behind China’s transforming humanitarian diplomacy. The findings of this article suggest that: 1) geopolitical and geoeconomic interests, represented by the Belt-and-Road Initiative, serve as a critical driver for the development of China’s bilateral partnership with other countries in the disaster sector; 2) long-term cooperation with underdeveloped countries like Nepal provides China, both government and non-state actors (NSAs), with an effective channel to engage with the international humanitarian community and to internalize humanitarian norms; 3) although humanitarian missions remain contingent and instrumental in China’s international relations, they are laying the foundations for a specialized humanitarian policy area with more relevant normative assets, more professional actors, and more sophisticated institutions; 4) NSAs, represented by private foundations and civil NGOs, have played active roles in the state-dominant cooperation in disaster management. This article also suggests that intensified geopolitical confrontations, such as military clashes between India and China along their disputed borders over the past year, would lead to a high degree of politicization of humanitarian missions and partnerships counter-conducive to humanitarian goals.
On the Move: Principal Components of the Functions and Experiences of Mobile Music Listening
Authors: Kuch Mia , Wöllner Clemens
Published: July 2021

Mobile music listening is widely recognized as an integral part of everyday music use. It is also a rather peculiar experience, since the listeners are surrounded by strangers in public and at the same time engaged in a solitary and private activity. The current study aimed at investigating the functions and experiences of mobile listening with a quantitative online questionnaire, and collected further information about mobile listening situations and listening habits. Among respondents ( n = 203), 89% reported listening to music while being on the move. We found mood-related and cognitive functions to be most prevalent (e.g., enhancing mood, relaxation, prevention of being bored), whereas least important functions relate to social dimensions (e.g., feeling less lonely, feeling less watched). Regarding experiences of mobile music, respondents most commonly adapted their mood to the music and lost touch with the current surroundings. A principal component analysis on ratings of functions and experiences resulted in an underlying structure of five dimensions, representing different levels of involvement: (1) Mood Management comprises functions to satisfy individual needs; (2) Absorption and Aestheticization encompasses deep listening experiences and altered perception of the surroundings; (3) Social Encapsulation and Self-Focus describe the distancing of oneself and changes in attention; (4) Distraction and Passing Time include the prevention of being bored and making time pass faster; and (5) Auditory Background is defined by a non-attentive and rather unaffected music listening. These results highlight the immersiveness of mobile music listening. By creating an individual soundworld, listeners distance themselves from the surroundings aurally and mentally, and modify their attention, perception, moods, and emotions, leading to an improvement of daily life experiences while moving.
What Promotes Post-Earthquake Economic Recovery: The Role of Counterpart Assistance Policy After the Wenchuan Ms 8.0 Earthquake, China
Authors: Peng Li , Li Qianyu , Deng Wei , Liu Ying
Published: July 2021

Despite the economic statistics from recent years indicating outstanding economic recovery in disaster-affected areas after the Wenchuan Ms 8.0 Earthquake, the causes of these macro-economic changes remain ambiguous. The Chinese Government set up the counterpart assistance policy to aid post-disaster reconstruction after the Wenchuan Ms 8.0 Earthquake in 2008; however, whether the changes seen in the economic statistics can be attributed to this policy remains unclear. This article uses the difference-in-differences model to evaluate the effects of counterpart assistance on economic development in disaster areas. Thirty-nine severely affected counties were chosen as research objects and divided into a treatment group (18 recipient counties) and a control group (non-recipient counties). Empirical results indicate the counterpart assistance policy helped to significantly improve the real GDP and GDP growth rate per capita in the treatment group. Counterpart assistance influenced the real GDP principally by increasing investment in fixed assets, employment, urbanization level, and fiscal expenditure. The findings of this study deepen our understanding of counterpart assistance within the Chinese context.
Evaluation of the Inflation Forecasting Process of the Reserve Bank of India: A Text Analysis Approach
Authors: Pandey Amrendra , Shettigar Jagadish , Bose Amarnath
Published: July 2021

This study attempts to evaluate the monetary policy of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) based on an investigation of the policy statements. The analysis based on text mining of the central bank’s monetary policy statements seeks to unravel the information considered by the central bank and the processes followed in making its inflation forecasts. The findings indicate that although the RBI examined high-frequency economic indicators, its inflation forecasts have generally been off the mark. Specifically, the monetary policy committee failed to foresee the sharp disinflation that followed the demonetization announced on November 8, 2016. This failure resulted in a high real interest rate regime that dealt a blow to the economy staggering under the effects of demonetization. Our research findings show that the monetary policy governance practices need to be refined and better aligned to economic realities, particularly under the RBI’s new monetary policy framework.
A Systematic Review of Workplace-Based Employee Health Interventions and Their Impact on Sleep Duration Among Shift Workers
Authors: Robbins Rebecca , Underwood Phoenix , Jackson Chandra L. , Jean-Louis Giradin , Madhavaram Shreya , Kuriakose Shiana , Vieira Dorice , Buxton Orfeu M.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Shift work is associated with long-term health risks. Workplace-based health interventions hold promise for improving or maintaining the health of shift workers; yet, the impact of workplace-based interventions on shift worker sleep duration has not been assessed. We conducted a systematic review of workplace interventions on shift worker sleep.

Methods:

We conducted searches in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, EMBASE, Scopus, and PsycINFO ( n = 6,868 records) of all studies published through May 15, 2019. Eligibility criteria included the following: (a) individuals aged ≥18 years; (b) a workplace-based employee intervention; (c) an employee population comprised predominantly of shift workers (>50%); and (d) sleep duration as a study outcome.

Findings:

Twenty workplace interventions met eligibility criteria. Mean intervention duration was 125 ( SD = 187) days and mean sample size was 116 employees ( SD = 256) with a mean age of 36.4 years ( SD = 6.5). Interventions most commonly focused on light exposure (25%) or shift timing (25%), followed by sleep hygiene (20%). Most interventions were conducted in the health care and social assistance sector (60%). Study quality on average was 64% ( SD = 7%). A majority of the studies found that a workplace-based health intervention was associated with a desirable increase in 24-hour total sleep duration (55%). The overall average increase in daily employee sleep duration achieved by interventions ranged for RCT studies from 0.34 to 0.99 hours and for non-RCT studies from 0.02 to 1.15 hours.

Conclusions/Applications to Practice:

More than half of the employee health interventions, especially yoga or mindfulness interventions, resulted in a desirable increase in sleep duration. Workplaces hold promise as an avenue? for delivering programs and policies that aim to improve sleep duration among shift workers.
Direct Cost of Illness for Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Malekzadeh Hamid , Golpayegani Mahdi , Ghodsi Zahra , Sadeghi-Naini Mohsen , Asgardoon Mohammadhossein , Baigi Vali , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Rahimi-Movaghar Vafa
Published: July 2021

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Objective:

Providing a comprehensive review of spinal cord injury cost of illness studies to assist health-service planning.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review of the literature published from Jan. 1990 to Nov. 2020 via Pubmed, EMBASE, and NHS Economic Evaluation Database. Our primary outcomes were overall direct health care costs of SCI during acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, within the first year post-injury, and in the ensuing years.

Results:

Through a 2-phase screening process by independent reviewers, 30 articles out of 6177 identified citations were included. Cost of care varied widely with the mean cost of acute care ranging from $290 to $612,590; inpatient rehabilitation from $19,360 to $443,040; the first year after injury from $32,240 to $1,156,400; and the ensuing years from $4,490 to $251,450. Variations in reported costs were primarily due to neurological level of injury, study location, methodological heterogeneities, cost definitions, study populations, and timeframes. A cervical level of the injury, ASIA grade A and B, concomitant injuries, and in-hospital complications were associated with the greatest incremental effect in cost burden.

Conclusion:

The economic burden of SCI is generally high and cost figures are broadly higher for developed countries. As studies were only available in few countries, the generalizability of the cost estimates to a regional or global level is only limited to countries with similar economic status and health systems. Further investigations with standardized methodologies are required to fill the knowledge gaps in the healthcare economics of SCI.
Factors Affecting Prolonged Postoperative Pain and Analgesic Use After Arthroscopic Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Misir Abdulhamit , Uzun Erdal , Kizkapan Turan Bilge , Ozcamdalli Mustafa , Sekban Hazim , Guney Ahmet
Published: July 2021

Background:

Postoperative pain and analgesic use after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair remain important issues that affect rehabilitation and overall outcomes.

Purpose:

To evaluate the pre- and intraoperative factors that may cause prolonged duration of postoperative pain and analgesic use.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We included 443 patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and subacromial decompression. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain were obtained preoperatively and at 30 and 90 days postoperatively. Patients were divided into a group who had prolonged postoperative pain (duration ≥1 and <3 months; n = 86 patients) and a group with nonprolonged pain (duration <1 month; n = 357 patients). The following factors were compared between groups: age, sex, body mass index, repair technique, tear size, retraction amount, repair tension, tendon degeneration, preoperative pseudoparesis, symptom duration, application of microfracture to the rotator cuff footprint for marrow stimulation, smoking, degree of fatty degeneration, preoperative narcotic analgesic use, diabetes, acromioclavicular joint degeneration, and preoperative Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) and American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES) scores.

Results:

Significant differences were seen between the prolonged and nonprolonged groups regarding the median duration of pain (54 vs 27 days, respectively; P < .001) and analgesic use (42 vs 28 days, respectively; P < .001). Significant differences were noted between the groups for symptom duration ( P = .007), smoking status ( P = .001), degree of fatty degeneration ( P = .009), preoperative narcotic analgesic use ( P < .001), preoperative DN4 and ASES scores, 30-day VAS score ( P < .001), duration of opioid and nonopioid analgesic use ( P < .001), tear size ( P = .026), and retraction stage ( P = .032). Tear size ( P = .009), retraction amount ( P = .005), preoperative narcotic analgesic use ( P < .001), degree of fatty degeneration ( P < .001), and preoperative DN4 score ( P = .024) were factors independently associated with prolonged postoperative pain and analgesic use.

Conclusion:

Patients with larger size tears, retracted tendons, preoperative use of narcotic analgesics, higher tensioned tendon after repair, and Goutallier grade 3 or 4 fatty degeneration faced an increased risk of prolonged postoperative pain and analgesic use after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. These factors might be mitigated by psychosocial support; gentle, controlled, and individualized postoperative rehabilitation approaches; detailed preoperative evaluation; and closer follow-up of patients who are treated operatively.
Counter-Clockwise Rotation of Maxillomandibular Complex and Customized Joint Reconstruction as a Single Stage Management for Facial Deformity in Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis: A 2 Year Follow-Up
Authors: Mehrotra Divya , Yadav Pradeep K , Katrolia Ravi , Khan Haaris
Published: July 2021

Study Design:

A case report with 2 year follow up.

Objective:

The aim of this paper is to present a case of bilateral TMJ ankylosis with coexisting dentofacial deformity and occlusal cant, and 2 years follow-up evaluation for changes and relapse in the facial skeletal and airway.

Methods:

The patient was planned preoperatively by computer simulation for bilateral interposition arthroplasty and surgical jigs, coronoidectomy, detachment of masseter and medial pterygoid muscles from ramus, LeFort 1 osteotomy, temporary maxillomandibular fixation, counter-clockwise rotation of the maxillomandibular complex, maxillary fixation and iliac crest graft, reconstruction of bilateral TMJ with custom-made total joint prosthesis, dermal fat interposition in the joint, reattachment of muscles, maxillomandibular fixation, and active physiotherapy.

Results:

Average ramal length improved by 28.35 mm (81%) in the immediate postoperative and 25.6 mm (73.45%) at 2 years, showing 2.75 mm (4.4%) vertical bone resorption at the angle region. Point A advanced by 1.3 mm, but showed 4.5% horizontal relapse; Point B advanced by 10.2 mm, but showed 9.5% relapse at 2 years. Pogonion advanced by 26.3 mm (70%) but presented 7 mm (10.9%) horizontal relapse; and menton by 28.6 mm (89%) with 5.4 mm (8.9%) relapse at 2 years. The mean mandibular plane angle decreased by 33.5° (42%) after surgery and by 32° (40%) at 2 years. Pharyngeal airway increased by 49% after surgery and by 75.6% at 2 years follow-up.

Conclusion:

This computer simulated approach for the management of bilateral TMJ ankylosis with facial deformity and occlusal cant improves aesthetics, function and airway in a single surgery, thereby reducing the management cost and time, and deliver precise results.
Bariatric procedures and microbiota: patient selection and outcome prediction
Authors: Puca Pierluigi , Petito Valentina , Laterza Lucrezia , Lopetuso Loris Riccardo , Neri Matteo , Del Chierico Federica , Boskoski Ivo , Gasbarrini Antonio , Scaldaferri Franco
Published: July 2021

Obesity is a major health issue throughout the world and bariatric surgery plays a key role in its management and treatment. The role of microbiota in determining the pathogenesis of obesity has been widely studied, while its role in determining the outcome of bariatric surgery is an emerging issue that will be an outcome in near future studies. Studies on mice first showed the key role of microbiota in determining obesity, highlighting the fat mass increase in mice transplanted with microbiota from fat individuals, as well as the different microbiota composition between mice undergone to low-fat or high-fat diets. This led to characterize the asset of microbiota composition in obesity: increased abundance of Firmicutes, reduced abundance of Bacteroidetes and other taxonomical features. Variations on the composition of gut microbiome have been detected in patients undergone to diet and/or bariatric surgery procedures. Patients undergone to restricting diets showed lower level of trimethylamine N-oxide and other metabolites strictly associated to microbiome, as well as patients treated with bariatric surgery showed, after the procedure, changes in the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes and other phyla with a role in the pathogenesis of obesity. Eventually, studies have been led about the effects that the modification of microbiota could have on obesity itself, mainly focusing on elements like fecal microbiota transplantation and probiotics such as inulin. This series of studies and considerations represent the first step in order to select patients eligible to bariatric surgery and to predict their outcome.