bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study on the treatment of refractory organics in landfill leachate by homogeneous and heterogeneous Fenton advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Li Yihui , Li Zhiheng , Bai Jie , Wang Fan
Published: December 2022

With the advancement of the landfill stabilization process of municipal solid waste, landfill leachate containing a large amount of refractory organic matter is formed. In this study, homogeneous Fenton and heterogeneous Fenton-like (activation by zero valent iron (Fe0), pyrite (FeS2) and magnetite (Fe3O4) as solid iron materials) processes have been compared for the removal of refractory organics from landfill leachate. The removal efficiency of organics in the Fenton process was slightly higher than those in the Fenton-like processes. The removal efficiencies based on total organic carbon, UV absorbance at 254 nm (UV254) and colour number in the Fenton process were as high as 57.42%, 71.63% and 81.03%, respectively. In the Fenton-like processes, the Fe0/H2O2 process achieved 35.74%, 66.24% and 86.29% removal efficiencies, respectively. Moreover, the degradation effect on refractory organic substances proved to be better. In the Fenton-like processes, the activation mechanisms with Fe0 and FeS2 involve the homogeneous activation of Fe2+ in solution and heterogeneous activation of iron oxides produced during the reaction, respectively. With Fe3O4, the activation mechanism is mainly a heterogeneous process involving its intrinsic iron oxide constituents. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of refractory organics in landfill leachate.
Remaining useful life prediction of rolling element bearing based on hybrid drive of data-driven and dynamic model
Authors: Ying Jun , Yang Zhaojun , Chen Chuanhai , Liu Zhifeng , Li Shizheng , Chen Hu
Published: December 2022

The dynamic model can provide high capabilities at accurate simulation for rolling element bearings (REBs), but to simulate the continuous dynamic response over the whole life time is difficult. This paper proposes a hybrid method based on a data-driven and dynamic model to obtain continuous parameters of dynamic model, which can be used to predict the remaining useful life (RUL) of REBs. First, four dynamic models of the REB with the variable parameters of roughness, crack growth rate, crack length and crack depth are established to describe the degradation process of REB with three stages. In particular, the self-healing phenomenon in bearing fault stage is analysed, and the three models are used to describe the trend of fluctuating degradation process in this stage. The dynamic model parameters are updated for the degradation process of REBs with the interacting multiple-model particle filtering, which taken root mean square (RMS) as the observation. Then, the continuously growing crack length is used as the index to predict the RUL. The proposed method realises the continuity of dynamic model in the whole life time, and the fluctuating RMS is transformed into a continuously growing parameter for prediction to avoid the prediction difficulty caused by the decrease in RMS in the degradation process. Finally, The bearing datasets of Xi’an Jiaotong University are used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The comparative test results show that the proposed method can predict the results more accurately without sample training and obtain a clearer degradation mechanism.
Influence of the low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation injection point on engine performance
Authors: Galindo José , Navarro Roberto , De la Morena Joaquín , Pitarch Rafael , Guilain Stéphane
Published: December 2022

The use of low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) has been extended in spark-ignited engines in recent years due to advantages from efficiency perspective. However, the potential condensation of the water contained in the exhaust gases and eventual compressor erosion can limit the usage of such systems during engine warm-up and/or cold ambient conditions. One possibility to avoid condensation at cold ambient is to place the EGR injection close to the compressor wheel, avoiding a complete mixture of both streams, but it alters the flow distribution upstream of the compressor, potentially affecting its performance. In order to assess the impact of this phenomenon in engine operation, a detailed experimental campaign in a state-of-the-art spark-ignition engine was performed comparing this close-coupled configuration with another one where the injection point was far upstream the compressor, ensuring a perfect mixing. A previously developed and validated one-dimensional model of the variable geometry turbocharger was used to analyze in further detail the compressor and turbine operation. The results show a general deterioration of the engine pumping mean effective pressure (up to 0.02 bar) and the specific fuel consumption (up to 4 g/kWh) when applying the close configuration, higher as the EGR rate increases, which is partially due to the change in turbine operation induced by the new compressor working point.
The management of fracture related infections: What practices can be supported by high-level evidence?
Authors: Prada Carlos , Bengoa Francisco , Bhandari Mohit
Published: December 2022

Fracture related infections (FRIs) are a disabling condition causing significant concern within the orthopaedic community. FRIs have a huge societal and economic burden leading to prolonged recovery times and the potential for becoming chronic conditions or being life-threatening. Despite its importance in our field, the surgical community has just recently agreed on a definition which, added to the lack of surgical trials assessing preventive and treatment interventions have limited our understanding and precipitated wide variations in surgeons’ practice. This article aims to review the current practices that can be supported with high-quality evidence. Currently, we have a limited body of high-quality evidence on FRI prevention and treatment. A handful of measures have proven effective, such as the use of prophylactic antibiotics, the use of saline and low pressure as the preferred irrigation solution and the safety of delaying initial surgical débridement more than 6 hours without impacting infection rates for open fracture wounds débridement. Future multicentre trials, properly powered, will shed light on current areas of controversy regarding the benefit of different preoperative and perioperative factors for the prevention and treatment of FRIs. Higher quality evidence is needed to guide surgeons to offer an evidence-based approach to prevent FRI occurrence and to treat patients suffering from them.
Experimental demonstration of broadband reconfigurable mechanical nonreciprocity
Authors: Mehrvarz Amin , Khodaei Mohammad Javad , Darabi Amir , Zareei Ahmad , Jalili Nader
Published: December 2022

Breaking reciprocity has recently gained significant attention due to its broad range of applications in engineering systems. Here, we introduce the first experimental demonstration of a broadband mechanical beam waveguide, which can be reconfigured to represent wave nonreciprocity. This is achieved by using spatiotemporal stiffness modulation with piezoelectric patches in a closed-loop controller. Using a combination of analytical methods, numerical simulations, and experimental measurements, we show that contrary to the conventional shunted piezoelectrics or nonlinearity based methods, our setup is stable, less complicated, reconfigurable, and precise over a broad range of frequencies. Our reconfigurable nonreciprocal system has potential applications in phononic logic, wave diodes, energy trapping, and localization.
Asymptotic homogenization of flexoelectric composite plates with periodically varying thickness
Authors: Kalamkarov AL , Hadjiloizi DA , Weaver PM , Georgiades AV
Published: December 2022

A micromechanical model for the analysis of structurally periodic flexoelectric plates with periodically varying thickness is developed on the basis of asymptotic homogenization. The period of thickness variation is small and comparable to the plate thickness; accordingly, the plate is usually referred to as having a “rapidly varying thickness.” The stipulation for rapidly varying thickness is important because it is envisioned that the developed model can be applied to a broad range of thin plates, both stratified as well as plates endowed with an arbitrary distribution of reinforcements attached to the surface or embedded within the plate. The microscopic problem is implemented in two steps pertaining, respectively, to first- and second-gradient asymptotic homogenization. Each level of homogenization culminates in its own set of unit cell problems from which the effective coefficients of the homogenized structure can eventually be obtained. These effective coefficients couple the force and moment resultants as well as the averaged electric displacement with the first and second gradients of the macroscopic displacement and electric potential. Once the effective coefficients are obtained, the macroscopic problem is invoked, which provides a set of four differential equations from which the macroscopic variables of mechanical displacement and electric potential can be obtained. The model is illustrated by means of laminated flexoelectric composites as well as simple rib-reinforced plates. It is shown that in the limiting case of a thin, purely elastic plate, the derived model converges to the familiar classical plate model.
Focal Nodular Hyperplasia-Like Lesions With Glypican-3 Positivity in Infancy
Authors: Berklite Lara , Shenoy Archana , Hollowell Monica , Fung Bonita , Ranganathan Sarangarajan
Published: December 2022

Purpose and Context:

Glypican-3 is often used to discriminate between neoplastic and nonneoplastic liver. In focal lesions, positivity may be considered suggestive of a malignancy such as hepatoblastoma. However, glypican-3 is also normally expressed in the immature liver. We present a series of 5 cases of focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH)-like lesions arising in very young patients with glypican-3 expression and highlight the challenges these lesions present in the differential diagnosis of hepatoblastoma.

Methods:

Cases were obtained from the files of 3 tertiary pediatric hospitals. Clinical data were obtained from the electronic medical record and histopathologic material including immunohistochemical stains were reviewed.

Key Results:

Patients were aged 2 weeks to 6 months with peak AFP levels ranging from 88.6 to 204,696 ng/mL. Microscopically, all were variably demarcated hepatocellular lesions with cords of hepatocytes, marked sinusoidal dilatation, and occasional fibrous bands and areas reminiscent of central scar with bile ducts. No significant cytologic atypia or increased mitotic activity were present. All showed glypican-3 expression and were negative for nuclear beta-catenin with intact reticulin framework.

Conclusions:

Our study highlights the pitfalls of evaluating focal liver lesions in infants when high AFP levels and glypican-3 expression may reflect immaturity rather than neoplasia.
Current Knowledge and Research Directions of Responsible Tourism and Hospitality: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Gao Yixing (Lisa) , Mattila Anna S. , Andreu Luisa
Published: December 2022

The responsible tourism and hospitality (RTH) literature has been growing, as evidenced by the increasing number of published articles. In this study, we synthesize the current knowledge of RTH research. Through co-citation and content analyses, we map the intellectual structure of the tourism and hospitality literature from various perspectives, including sustainable tourism, consumer behavior, and environmental management, while identifying overarching themes, citations, and researchers. We aim to help academics and practitioners increase their understanding of RTH and provide directions for future research.
High-dose steroid-responsive COVID-19-related encephalopathy with a sudden onset of dysarthria mimicking stroke: a case report
Authors: Kikutsuji Naoya , Kataoka Hiroshi , Kiriyama Takao , Sugie Kazuma
Published: December 2022

There has been limited research on encephalitis/encephalopathy, which is a less common coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) neurological complication. The differentiation between stroke and encephalopathy with stroke mimickers is challenging in patients with COVID-19. Here, we describe a case of COVID-19-related encephalopathy mimicking stroke that was successfully treated with high-dose steroid pulse therapy. The patient suddenly experienced language disturbance with a left facial droop and symmetric numbness in his upper limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans revealed hyperintensities in both the white matter and splenium. No pneumonia was observed. MRI abnormalities and neurological symptoms resolved after steroid pulse therapy and administration of remdesivir. High-dose steroid pulse treatment (for 3 days) might alleviate COVID-19-related encephalopathy.
Wear modelling and sealing performance prediction of C/C composite finger seal
Authors: Lu Fei , Liu Jian , Pang Xianjuan , Song Chenfei , Xu Zhidong
Published: December 2022

Due to the high speed and high pressure operating conditions, wear between the finger seal and the rotor is inevitable, and this leads to an increase of leakage clearance and becomes an important factor affecting the seal life. The theory of anisotropic elasticity was employed to describe the mechanical characteristics of the seal material. An improved Archard wear model was proposed to calculate the nodal wear rate, and the local wear direction was also determined. The wear simulation model and procedure were established based on the Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian adaptive mesh strategy. The effects of material density, fabric orientation, pressure differential and rotor speed on the wear characteristics of finger seal and the change of leakage clearance caused by wear loss were studied. The results show that the wear first occurs at the heel area of the finger foot bottom and gradually extends to the toe area. C/C (carbon fibre reinforced carbon matrix) composite finger seal with higher material density has smaller leakage clearance and wear depth. With the increase of fabric orientation angle, the wear depth in the heel area of finger foot is smaller, and the circumferential wear area is narrower. The average wear depth of finger seal decreases with the orientation angle. When the orientation angle is 0, the seal leakage clearance is smaller. The increase of pressure differential not only aggravates the seal wear, but also expands the wear area, and also increases the average contact pressure and leakage clearance. Increasing the rotor speed make the wear depth of the heel area of finger foot gradually increase, but the wear area becomes narrower. The average contact pressure decreases and the average leakage clearance increases. This study provides a theoretical method and basis for the prediction and evaluation of the wear life and performance of C/C composite finger seal.
Manifestations of Depression: Self-Perception, Culture, and Body
Authors: Mulderig Bethany , Carriere Kevin R
Published: December 2022

As we emerge in a post-pandemic society, the feelings of isolation present during quarantine persist. But for some, these feelings of isolation have been present long before the pandemic began. The ideal of mental wellness is an important one: depression, anxiety, and persistent feelings of hopelessness severely impact our lives, relationships with loved ones, and our relationship with ourselves. In conjunction with an understanding of mental wellness, there must also be an understanding of mental illness. For in our pursuit of mental wellness after quarantine, we must not forget our compassion for those who have been suffering without. Through this short virtual issue, we invite you to read the following selected articles from Culture & Psychology. Thematically, they may find themselves fitting well with a weekly seminar, or a graduate course on mental health. One may find themselves discovering new insights of theoretical expansion beyond what this Special Issue can provide. Thus, in a quest for the solidification of our compassion, this virtual issue delves into three key aspects of depression: its relationship with ourselves, our cultures, and our bodies.
Are autistic people disadvantaged by the criminal justice system? A case comparison
Authors: Slavny-Cross Rachel , Allison Carrie , Griffiths Sarah , Baron-Cohen Simon
Published: December 2022

The UK government identified ‘improving support within the criminal justice systems’ as a priority for autistic people. There is a lack of quantitative research to enable policymakers to make evidence-based decisions on how to improve access to justice for autistic people. This study used a case-comparison design to compare the experiences of 145 autistic and 116 non-autistic adults who had been arrested at some point in their life. Autistic participants were nearly five times more likely to state that they were not given an appropriate adult even though they believed they needed one and felt less able to communicate with the police. Autistic participants felt less able to cope with stress, twice as likely to have experienced meltdowns and five times more likely to have experienced shutdowns because of their criminal justice involvement. We conclude that there are inequalities that autistic people face when navigating the criminal justice system and the degree to which they can participate effectively in the justice process. This has an impact on their mental health. Policy recommendations are discussed based on this evidence.

Lay Abstract

Most autistic people will never experience being arrested or charged with a crime, however for those who do tend to be less satisfied with the way they were treated. The purpose of this study was to find out if autistic people are being disadvantaged by the criminal justice system if they are arrested. Previous research has shown that autistic people may have difficulties communicating with the police. This study builds on this knowledge by uncovering why autistic people may not feel able to communicate with the police and whether the police made any adjustments to help them. This study also measures the impact of being involved with the criminal justice system on autistic people’s mental health, such as stress, meltdowns and shutdowns. The results show that autistic people were not always given the support they felt they needed. For example, not all autistic people had an appropriate adult with them at the police station who could help to make sure they understood what was happening around them. Autistic people were also more likely to feel less able to cope with the stress and more likely to suffer meltdowns and shutdowns because of their involvement with the criminal justice system. We hope this study will help police officers and lawyers to better support autistic people if they become involved with the criminal justice system.
‘The pandemic helped me!’ Queer international students’ identity negotiation with family on social media in immobile times
Authors: Zheng Hao
Published: December 2022

This article examines queer international students’ negotiation of sexuality and family ties maintenance during the Covid-19 pandemic. In considering the transitions in queer identity making, I highlight the complexity of coming out to parents. The performative dimension of social media allows queer international students to curate selective presentations and connect with their families digitally in immobile times. However, the technological affordance of social media is porous and productive, triggering the possibility of leakage and accidental outings but enabling negotiation afterwards. Drawing on two rounds of in-depth and social media scroll-back interviews with 20 Chinese queer female international students in Australia in 2021, this article identifies the social roles of social media in managing ties between queer international students and their overseas parents ( shielding, leakage, and routing). It also complicates the extant implications of pandemic immobility in a specific context of queer transitions.
Effect of piston geometry on combustion characteristics of CI engine used Sal seed oil
Authors: Temizer Ilker , Cihan Omer
Published: December 2022

The effect of piston bowl geometry on reducing soot emissions, improving combustion, and in-cylinder flow movements in a direct injection diesel engine was investigated. Standard combustion chamber (SCC) and newly modified combustion chamber (MCC) geometries were compared at the same compression ratio (17.5:1). Experimental analysis of diesel engines is expensive and time consuming, and therefore the Computational Fluid Dynamics program was used to analyze the combustion, flow and emission process. AVL Fire ESE Diesel software was used in the numerical study. The numerical work was compared with the experimental results, and it was validated. In addition, 10% biodiesel mixture (10% Sal seed oil methyl ester + 90% diesel fuel) and diesel fuel were used in the analysis. These fuels and two different bowl geometries were investigated at 2000 rpm and full load conditions. Thus, the effect of the used biodiesel fuel and the developed bowl geometry were investigated. Sal seed oil methyl ester was used as biodiesel fuel. The results show that higher turbulence velocity distribution, better mixture fraction values and lower soot formation distribution are obtained by directing the MCC type fuel according to SCC type. When the pressure, temperature and heat release in the combustion chamber are examined, the highest values were obtained with B10 blended fuel used at the SCC type combustion chamber. The maximum heat release rates are 8.72, 9.38, 8.21, and 9.30 J/° for SCCD100, SCCB10, MCCD100 and MCCB10 fuels, respectively.
Super Politicians? Perspectives of Minoritized Citizens on Representation
Authors: de Jong Judith Charlotte , Mügge Liza
Published: December 2022

How do minoritized citizens think about the politicians that represent them? How should they act and be? Drawing on 19 focus group interviews with 98 participants with a migration background in Germany and the Netherlands, we find that citizens’ evaluation of politicians depends on several factors. Politicians should be responsive, accessible, inclusive, and empathetic. Some participants consider empathy an essential quality for non-descriptive politicians in particular, since they do not have a descriptive or experiential connection with ethnically minoritized communities. Whether participants evaluate descriptive political actors positively or negatively depends on their sociopolitical identification, ideological preference, and the representative’s perceived assimilation within the party. Finally, political systems and histories of diversity in representation influence what ethnically minoritized citizens consider to be a good representative. But, the super politicians of their dreams are scarce.
Greater exercise tolerance in COPD during acute intermittent compared to continuous shuttle walking protocols: A proof-of-concept study
Authors: Alexiou Charikleia , Chambers Francesca , Megaritis Dimitrios , Wakenshaw Lynsey , Echevarria Carlos , Vogiatzis Ioannis
Published: December 2022

Objectives: Ground-based walking is a simple training modality which would suit pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) settings with limited access to specialist equipment. Patients with COPD are, however, unable to walk uninterruptedly at a relatively fast walking pace to optimise training benefits. We compared an intermittent (IntSW) to a continuous (CSW) shuttle walking protocol.

Methods: In 14 COPD patients (mean ± SD. FEV1: 45 ± 21% predicted) we measured walking distance, cardiac output (CO), arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), and symptoms during (a) an IntSW protocol, consisting of 1-min walking alternating with 1-min rest, and (b) a CSW protocol, both sustained at 85% of predicted VO2 peak to the limit of tolerance (Tlim).

Results: Median (IQR) distance was greater ( p = 0.001) during the IntSW protocol (735 (375–1107) m) than the CSW protocol (190 (117–360) m). At iso-distance (distance at Tlim during CSW) the IntSW compared to the CSW protocol was associated with lower CO (8.6 ± 2.6 vs 10.3 ± 3.7 L/min; p = 0.013), greater SpO2 (92 ± 6% versus 90 ± 7%; p = 0.002), and lower symptoms of dyspnoea (2.8 ± 1.3 vs 4.9 ± 1.4; p = 0.001) and leg discomfort (2.3 ± 1.7 vs 4.2 ± 2.2; p = 0.001). At Tlim symptoms of dyspnoea and leg discomfort did not differ between the IntSW (4.4 ± 1.9 and 3.6 ± 2.1, respectively) and the CSW protocol.

Conclusions: The IntSW protocol may provide important clinical benefits during exercise training in the PR settings because it allows greater work outputs compared to the CSW.
Visualizing Mental Health Through the Lens of Pittsburgh Youth: A Collaborative Filmmaking Study During COVID-19
Authors: Baumann Sara E. , Kameg Brayden N. , Wiltrout Christopher T. , Murdoch Deborah , Pelcher Lindsay , Burke Jessica G.
Published: December 2022

Youth mental health has been significantly impacted by COVID-19, with concerns of rising anxiety-related and depressive symptoms and reduced quality of life. This study provides a nuanced understanding of mental health stressors and supports in the lives of youth during the pandemic. Using Collaborative Filmmaking, an embodied, visual, and participatory research method, participants in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, were trained to create, analyze, and screen films about mental health. The films elucidated numerous stressors impacting youth mental health, including educational stressors (e.g., academic pressure and relationships with teachers), personal and social stressors (e.g., social and cultural expectations), and current events (e.g., the election and the political system). Supports included individual level supports (e.g., hobbies, self-care, spending time outdoors), and interpersonal level supports (e.g., family and socializing). Several themes were discussed as both stressors and supports, such as family, COVID-19, and social media. Overall, educational stressors are major contributors to adverse mental health symptoms among youth, which have been magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Youth discussions of the importance of self-care and engaging in healthy hobbies demonstrated strong awareness about maintaining mental health, though structural-level recommendations are still needed to improve youth mental health. Screening the Collaborative Films with the public illuminated several additional opportunities for action, including structural and social actions (e.g., changing policies and social norms around mental health). Given the structural nature of the stressors mentioned by participants, systemic changes as well as policy level action and programming are needed to address the intersectional nature of current mental health concerns among youth.
Long COVID Frameworks: Examining Individual- and Population-Level Models to Assess and Improve Patient Care
Authors: Comber Christopher
Published: December 2022

Post-COVID conditions, commonly referred to as long COVID, has become of increasing interest to biomedical and public health communities. Patient advocacy is critical to not only advancing quality care outcomes for patients affected by prolonged effects of the disease, but also to contribute to our understanding of lived perspectives to ensure individual voices inform future care approaches. While there has not been a “one-size fits all” approach to standardized care, disease heterogeneity has challenged previous views that the virus is limited to single organ system infections. Stakeholders at all levels have the most impact when they collaborate and organize strategies to offer assessment and treatment in multidisciplinary settings. I propose a framework in which population- and individual-level models are integrated to enable quality outcomes while helping frontline practitioners improve their decision-making in all environments.
Palladium-catalyzed transfer hydrogenation of terminal alkynes using ethanol as the hydrogen donor
Authors: Hui Jie , Wang Feng
Published: December 2022

A ligand-promoted, palladium-catalyzed transfer hydrogenation of terminal alkynes using ethanol as the hydrogen donor is developed. The chemical selectivity control is achieved based on ligand regulation. The use of triethanolamine and tetrahydrofuran at 80 °C under N2 is found to be critical for the transfer hydrogenation of terminal alkynes. The general applicability of this procedure is highlighted by the synthesis of 27 terminal alkenes in moderate to good yields.
Co-simulation platform for geometric design, trajectory control and guidance of racing drones
Authors: Castiblanco Quintero J.M. , Garcia-Nieto S. , Simarro R. , Salcedo J.V.
Published: December 2022

The design of racing drones brings quite a thrilling challenge from a flight dynamics point of view. This work aims to offer a single-based simulation platform combining its geometric design, trajectory control, and guidance of racing drones. Also, it is reckoned from a pilot’s view in a classic FPV competition. Hence, it is an active platform for studying racing drones’ design founded on dynamics, with fifteen different drone models. It is one of the few existing platforms that combine all aspects of racing drones in a single simulation environment. Also, it is open access via Matlab Central - File Exchange.
Think About It! Deliberation Reduces the Negative Relation Between Conspiracy Belief and Adherence to Prosocial Norms
Authors: Pummerer Lotte , Ditrich Lara , Winter Kevin , Sassenberg Kai
Published: December 2022

People believing in conspiracy theories question mainstream thoughts and behavior, but it is unknown whether it is also linked to lower adherence to the prosocial norms of the broader society. Furthermore, interventions targeting correlates of the belief in conspiracy theories so far are scarce. In four preregistered, mixed-design experiments ( Ntotal = 1,659, Nobservations = 8,902), we tested whether believing in conspiracy theories is related to lower prosocial norm adherence and whether deliberation about the reason for the norms mitigates this relationship. Across four studies with the U.S. samples, we found that believing in conspiracy theories correlated negatively with prosocial norm adherence in the control condition, which was less pronounced after deliberation (effect size of interaction: d = 0.16). Whether the norm was related to the law or not did not moderate this effect. Results point toward possible ways of mitigating negative correlates and potentially also consequences of believing in conspiracy theories.
The First Bible Translations into German Based on Erasmus’s New Testament: Johannes Lang’s and Martin Luther’s Versions of the Gospel of Matthew
Authors: Leutzsch Martin
Published: December 2022

With his Greek New Testament and accompanying Latin translation (1516, revised 1519), humanist Erasmus of Rotterdam created new opportunities for Western Bible translators. The first known translations into the vernacular based on this work are the versions of Matthew by Johannes Lang (June 1521) and of the whole New Testament by Martin Luther (September 1522). Luther’s Septembertestament is well known and plays a part in myths of Luther, Protestantism, and Bible translation. Johannes Lang, Luther’s friend, colleague, and co-worker in reforming the church, is much less known, and his translation seldom considered. This analysis of both translations pays special attention to their respective paratextual materials. Although based on the same source texts, these two translations from the early 1520s perform very different politics of translation and exhibit different attitudes to influence their readers.
Luther’s Contribution as Bible Translator to the German Language
Authors: Lobenstein-Reichmann Anja
Published: December 2022

Translation has often been the primary cultural medium through which history’s greatest visions for society have been communicated and acculturated. But few translations have had as much influence on German religion, politics, culture, and language as Luther’s Bible translation did. This article discusses Luther’s role as a reformer of language and as a Bible translator. Of course these two roles can scarcely be considered independently of each other. The Reformation was deeply marked by his translation choices, and his distinctive way of reading, interpreting, and communicating the Bible’s meaning.
The impact of real world information shocks on political attitudes: Evidence from the Panama Papers disclosures
Authors: Helgason Agnar Freyr , Mérola Vittorio
Published: December 2022

The Panama Papers disclosures in April 2016 revealed information about tax avoidance and fraud among political elites and the wealthy on a global scale. But did the disclosures affect relevant political attitudes and behavior, including perceptions of corruption, redistributive preferences, and voting intentions? We leverage nationally representative surveys that were in the field at the time in two heavily impacted countries, France and Spain, and treat the disclosures as a natural experiment, comparing respondents questioned just before and just after the disclosures. Our design highlights the difficulty, at times, of interpreting natural experiments, given the potentially compounded treatments that arise as events unfold over time, and the common inability to properly determine views prior to the treatment. That said, the analysis indicates that the disclosures had limited effects on the domains most likely affected by such a scandal, consistent with them being interpreted based on existing beliefs and identities. Our results thus contradict prior findings which suggest that the Panama Papers had substantial effects on redistributive attitudes, and shed further light on voters’ learning and updating around uncertain, yet emotionally laden, political facts.
‘Where are the graves of coronavirus victims?’ Beliefs, conspiracy theories and representations of COVID-19 in Africa
Authors: Falade Bankole Adebayo
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected everyday life in Africa, a continent that is known for its high levels of religious belief. Using a corpus of news articles and the social representations research paradigm, this study examines African understandings of the pandemic. It uses installation theory, the wind rose model and the accommodation hypothesis to explore the coexistence between science and belief. The accommodation hypothesis demonstrates that the representations were hierarchical, to elevate God above science. Faith leaders also used the pandemic to enhance faith by blaming sin and urging repentance or blaming science by espousing conspiracy theories about the pandemic being a grand design to draw believers away from God. This paper highlights the great disparity in experience between Africa and the West, initially fuelling conspiracy theories. The findings also reinforce two key conceptual approaches: installation theory on the influence of rules imposed by society on behaviour, and the wind rose model in which representations change over time and in response to social interactions.
Resistant Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria – A Case Series Narrative Review of Treatment Options
Authors: Khan Sujoy , Chopra Charu , Mitchell Alaistair , Nakonechna Alla , Yong Patrick , Karim Mohammed Yousuf
Published: December 2022

Background

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) can be extremely debilitating to the patient and challenging for the treating clinician. The National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the United Kingdom (UK) recommendation of omalizumab for patients who fail to respond to high-dose anti-histamines has improved treatment options and quality of life. However, there is still lack of clear guidelines for treatment of patients resistant to standard and anti-IgE therapies.

Methods

We discuss the therapeutic strategies employed among nine extremely resistant CSU cases and the heterogeneity between guidelines from different societies.

Results

Patients with anti-histamine-resistant urticaria either remained on omalizumab or started on immunosuppressive drugs (dapsone or ciclosporin) when they stopped responding to omalizumab. We used clinical assessment, skin biopsies (when available) and previous published reports to consider dapsone (for predominantly neutrophilic infiltration), or ciclosporin at doses between 2 and 4 mg/kg/day. One patient with ciclosporin-resistant urticaria responded to mycophenolate mofetil. Two patients remain on long-term omalizumab due to its relative safety and efficacy including 1 patient with underlying antibody deficiency where omalizumab was preferred over risks of using immunosuppressive medications.

Conclusions

These case studies bring to light the real-world difficulties in managing patients with resistant CSU and the need for generating the evidence base on alternative therapeutic options such as synergistic use of biologics and immunosuppressive drugs.
The Use of Communication Strategies by Second Language Learners of Chinese in a Virtual Reality Learning Environment
Authors: Yang Hongzhi , Tsung Linda , Cao Lu
Published: December 2022

Virtual reality (VR) for Language learning has been shown effective in improving students’ communication skills. However very few studies reveal the communication strategies students used in communicating in a VR environment, especially in learning Chinese as a foreign or second language (CFL/CSL). In this pilot study, a prototype Virtual Experiential Language Learning Environment (VELLE) was used to provide immersive learning experiences in developing CFL students’ communication strategies. Productive Failure was employed as an instructional approach to support the learning design. The participants were six CFL students learning in an Australian university. The main data sources included audio recordings of the students’ communication in VR and interview data. The findings showed that participants’ use of various types of communication strategies was influenced by the VELLE and Productive Failure design. In particular, the use of L1 in the problem-solving phase enriched the participants’ learning opportunities and all participants used a lesser number of resource deficit-related strategies after the instruction. Second, Students reported enhanced engagement in language use in the VR context.
Do Tourism Development and Globalization Reinforce Ecological Footprint? Evidence From RCEP Countries
Authors: Hoang Ngoc Bui
Published: December 2022

Environmental degradation is one of the most urgent challenges facing governments and communities. Thus, the study aims to explore the influence of tourism development (TO), economic growth (GDP), and globalization (GLOB) on the environment (measured by the ecological footprint index, EF) in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) countries. By adopting a panel non-linear autoregressive distributed lag (panel NARDL) approach, the outcomes reveal that the impact of TO is an asymmetry in the long run but symmetry in the short run. More precisely, this study finds that positive changes in TO have a negative impact, while negative changes positively drive EF in the long run. In addition, the result also indicates that GDP positively influences EF, while GLOB has a significant negative impact on EF. Based on these findings, the work suggests practical policies for RCEP’s administrators to promote tourism and reduce ecological deficit.
Comparison of Overall Complication Rates in VCR-Based vs Non-VCR-Based Corrective Techniques in Severe Rigid Kyphoscoliosis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Van Halm-Lutterodt Nicholas Ishmael , Al-Saidi Neil Nazar , Mandalia Krishna , Mesregah Mohamed Kamal , Ghanem Kristina Marie , Storlie Nicholas Robert , Huang Wei-Hsun , Chen Wei-Cheng , Bartels-Mensah Mercy , Chen Xin Yuan , Ye Ziyang , Zhang Yangpu , Pan Aixing , Kim Sunny Sik , Lonner Baron , Alanay Ahmet , Hai Yong ,   International Spinal Deformity Review Study Group (ISDRSG)
Published: December 2022

Study Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective

Compilation of complication outcomes data from the surgical management of severe rigid kyphoscoliosis patients using VCR-based vs non-VCR-based corrective maneuvers is lacking. This meta-analysis aimed to compare complication outcomes between those classified osteotomy approaches.

Methods

Thorough literature review and meta-analysis were conducted between January 2000 and September 2021. The selection criteria were studies: i) reporting major curve Cobb angle of ≥80° and flexibility of <25% or 30%; ii) comparing VCR or ≥ Type V Schwab osteotomy defined as VCR-based vs [non-VCR-based] techniques, (any osteotomy or technique other than VCR); iii) published in English with ≥10 patients; iv) reporting complication rates; and v) having minimum of 2-year follow-up. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Significance level was set at ( P < .05).

Results

Of the 174 patients included, 52.30% (n = 91) and 47.70% (n = 83) were VCR-based and non-VCR-based, respectively. The incidence of dural tears/nerve injuries/significant intraoperative-neuromonitoring changes was significantly higher; [OR = 6.78, CI= (1.75 to 26.17), I2 = 0%, ( P = .006)] in the VCR-based group than the non-VCR-based group. The ‘overall surgical and medical’ complication rate was significantly higher in the VCR-based group, [OR = 1.94, CI= (1.02 to 3.67), I2 = 31%, ( P = .04)].

Conclusion

Both VCR-based and non-VCR-based surgical techniques for management of severe rigid scoliosis and kyphoscoliosis patients pose comparable overall surgical complication rates, while a significantly higher perioperative neurological complication incidence was associated with VCR-based technique compared to the non-VCR-based techniques. The VCR-based technique was associated with 6.78 times higher incidence of neurological complications compared to non-VCR-based techniques.
Cartographic Lines, Oral Narratives and Linguistic Contours in Northeast (India) Borders: A Case of Manipur–Nagaland Border Site
Authors: Kikhi Kedilezo , Hibo Visakhonu
Published: December 2022

Oral traditions and history suggest that the ethnic groups at Northeast borders lived in widespread accord sustaining soft jutted boundaries until very recently when the modern state(s), and its politics, resonates on administratively divided lines. The borders and the ethnic groups were never at dispute, yet, though of lately, they are confused (or rather misled) only to realise their ancestral lands situated on either side of the administrative state boundaries. This essay invites discourse on if the political state boundaries need to be revisited historically and redrawn or to rely on the ancestral-inherited ownership without perplexing it with the political boundaries. The essay also concerns on whether we can rely on the linguistic contours and vernacular place names to contest the given cartographic lines. The essay selects a border site (Manipur–Nagaland) for discussion.
Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes and Its Signs and Symptoms Among the Meiteis of Manipur, India
Authors: Devi Ksh Beliya Luxmi , Meitei Khangembam Taibanganba , Singh Soibam Jibonkumar
Published: December 2022

The rate of prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) increases globally and the greatest rise over the years is observed in India. T2D is the most frequent type of diabetes, increasing susceptibility to different diseases. The present study tries to find out the overall prevalence and identify the sign and symptoms of diabetes among the Meiteis of Manipur. Fasting blood glucose level was randomly collected from 1026 participants (men: 517 and women: 509) using a glucometer from five valley districts of Manipur. An interview schedule consisting of personal information and data on signs and symptoms of diabetes was collected from the participant with prior informed consent. The present study shows that 34.40% has impaired fasting glucose (IFG), and the overall prevalence of T2D is 12.96%, indicating that one out of every ten Meitei individuals is affected by the disease. The prevalence of T2D is higher with an increase in chronological age. The presence of signs and symptoms of T2D was significantly higher among the diabetic patients than the normal individuals. Owing to a lack of awareness and knowledge, the incidence of newly diagnosed diabetes is higher than self-reported. Therefore, as a preventive measure, there is an urgent need for timely intervention through awareness and imparting knowledge about diabetes education among the people.
The Tibial Tuberosity–Rotational Angle as a Novel Predisposing Parameter for Patellar Dislocation
Authors: Kim Tae Jin , Lee Tae Jin , Song Hyun-Sub , Bae Ji Hoon
Published: December 2022

Background:

The tibial tuberosity (TT) in the axial plane is located on a curved line along the anterior cortex of the proximal tibia. Therefore, the linear measurement of TT position may not fully reflect TT malposition.

Purpose:

To introduce TT–rotational angle (TT-RA) as a new anatomical parameter, which means the rotation of the TT relative to the dorsal condylar line of the tibia, and to validate its predictive value for patellar dislocation.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Included were 46 patients with a history of patellar dislocation and 46 age- and sex-matched controls who underwent axial magnetic resonance imaging. Seven radiological parameters were measured and compared between the 2 groups, including TT–trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, tibial tubercle–posterior cruciate ligament (TT-PCL) distance, TT-PCL ratio, TT lateralization (TTL), trochlear groove medialization (TGM), TT-RA, trochlear groove–posterior condylar axis angle (TG-PCA), and knee rotation. The predictive values of parameters for patellar dislocation were assessed using multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The intra- and interobserver correlation coefficients for measuring the radiographic parameters showed good to excellent values., respectively. There were significant differences in the TT-TG distance (13.9 vs 6.8 mm; P < .001), TT-RA (16.0° vs 9.1°; P < .001), TG-PCA (93.7° vs 95.4°; P = .017), and knee rotation (0.9° vs 5.3°; P < .001) between the 2 groups. However, there was no significant difference in TT-PCL distance (20.7 vs 19.4 mm; P = .075), TT-PCL ratio (28.0% vs 26.6%; P = .136), TTL (65.7% vs 64.9%; P = .270), or TGM (54.9% vs 55.0%; P = .923). Multivariable analysis showed that 3 parameters were significantly associated with patellar dislocation: TT-RA (OR, 1.57; P < .001), TT-TG distance (OR, 1.52; P = .002), and knee rotation (OR, 0.75; P = .022).

Conclusion:

The TT-RA was a reliable predisposing parameter of patellar instability. It can be an alternative method of measurement when the TT-TG distance is not clearly defined.