bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Tribute to Paul Crutzen (1933–2021): The Pioneering Atmospheric Chemist Who Provided New Insight into the Concept of Climate Change
Authors: Fishman Jack , Birks John W. , Graedel Thomas E. , Steffen Will , Burrows John P. , Howard Carleton J. , Wayne Richard P.
Published: October 2022

Paul Crutzen received his doctorate in meteorology from the University of Stockholm in 1968 and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1995. In addition to chemistry and atmospheric science, however, the breadth of his accomplishments has also been recognized by biologists, Earth system scientists, and geologists. This tribute provides some insight into Crutzen’s career and how it contributed to so many scientific disciplines. In addition, we offer a road map showing how these diverse contributions were woven together over the course of more than five decades of research. The citation for the 1995 Nobel Prize reads that it was given for “work in atmospheric chemistry, particularly concerning the formation and decomposition of ozone.” The inclusion of the wording “formation … of ozone” applies only to him among the three laureates (Crutzen, Mario Molina, and F. Sherwood Rowland). His research on tropospheric chemistry led to seminal studies of tropical biomass burning, which eventually evolved into the concept later known as “nuclear winter,” a topic in the forefront of far-ranging popular discussions in the 1980s. Last, Crutzen’s proposal for the emergence of the “Anthropocene” as a new geological epoch that would terminate the 11,700-yr-old Holocene is considered by the Earth system science community to be the most pronounced trademark of his remarkable career. Crutzen also received American Meteorological Society’s Battan Award for his coauthorship of Atmosphere, Climate, and Change, recognized by the organization as the best book for general audiences. In the later years of his career, as a member of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, Crutzen was a key player in the formulation of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’s encyclical on climate change, which was released in advance of the Conference of Parties (COP 21) meeting that announced the formulation of the Paris Climate Accords in 2015.
Variability and Predictability of Basinwide and Sub-Basin Tropical Cyclone Genesis Frequency in the Northwest Pacific
Authors: Mei Wei , Li Shuo
Published: October 2022

The variability and predictability of tropical cyclone genesis frequency (TCGF) during 1973–2010 at both basinwide and sub-basin scales in the northwest Pacific are investigated using a 100-member ensemble of 60-km-resolution atmospheric simulations that are forced with observed sea surface temperatures (SSTs). The sub-basin regions include the South China Sea (SCS) and the four quadrants of the open ocean. The ensemble-mean results well reproduce the observed interannual-to-decadal variability of TCGF in the southeast (SE), northeast (NE), and northwest (NW) quadrants, but show limited skill in the SCS and the southwest (SW) quadrant. The skill in the SE and NE quadrants is responsible for the model’s ability to replicate the observed variability in basinwide TCGF. Above-normal TCGF is tied to enhanced relative SST (i.e., local SST minus tropical-mean SST) either locally or to the southeast of the corresponding regions in both the observations and ensemble mean for the SE, NE, and NW quadrants, but only in the ensemble mean for the SCS and the SW quadrant. These results demonstrate the strong SST control of TCGF in the SE, NE, and NW quadrants; both empirical and theoretical analyses suggest that ensembles of ∼10, 20, 35, and 15 members can capture the SST-forced TCGF variability in these three sub-basin regions and the entire basin, respectively. In the SW quadrant and the SCS, TCGF contains excessive noise, particularly in the observations, and thus shows low predictability. The variability and predictability of the large-scale atmospheric environment and synoptic-scale disturbances and their contributions to those of TCGF are also discussed.
Reconstruction of the Rheological Parameters in a Sea Ice Model with Viscoplastic Rheology
Authors: Panteleev Gleb , Yaremchuk Max , Francis Oceana
Published: October 2022

We analyzed the feasibility of the reconstruction of the spatially varying rheological parameters through the four-dimensional variational data assimilation of the sea ice velocity, thickness, and concentration into the viscoplastic (VP) sea ice model. The feasibility is assessed via idealized variational data assimilation experiments with synthetic observations configured for a 1-day data assimilation window in a 50 × 40 rectangular basin forced by the open boundaries, winds, and ocean currents and should be viewed as a first step in the developing the similar algorithms which can be applied for the more advanced sea ice models. It is found that “true” spatial variability (∼5.8 kN m−2) of the internal maximum ice strength parameter can be retrieved from observations with reasonable accuracy of 2.3–5.3 kN m−2, when an observation of the sea ice state is available daily in each grid point. Similar relative accuracy was achieved for the reconstruction of the compactness strength parameter α. The yield curve eccentricity e is found to be controlled by the data with less efficiency, but the spatial mean value of e could be still reconstructed with a similar degree of confidence. The accuracy of , α, and e retrievals is found to increase in regions of stronger ice velocity convergence, providing prospects for better processing of the observations collected during the recent MOSAiC experiment. The accuracy of the retrievals strongly depends on the number of the control variables characterizing the rheological parameter fields.
A Tale of Two Vortex Evolutions: Using a High-Resolution Ensemble to Assess the Impacts of Ventilation on a Tropical Cyclone Rapid Intensification Event
Authors: Fischer Michael S. , Reasor Paul D. , Tang Brian H. , Corbosiero Kristen L. , Torn Ryan D. , Chen Xiaomin
Published: October 2022

The multiscale nature of tropical cyclone (TC) intensity change under moderate vertical wind shear was explored through an ensemble of high-resolution simulations of Hurricane Gonzalo (2014). Ensemble intensity forecasts were characterized by large short-term (36-h) uncertainty, with a forecast intensity spread of over 20 m s−1, due to differences in the timing of rapid intensification (RI) onset. Two subsets of ensemble members were examined, referred to as early-RI and late-RI members. The two ensemble groups displayed significantly different vortex evolutions under the influence of a nearby upper-tropospheric trough and an associated dry-air intrusion. Mid-to-upper-tropospheric ventilation in late-RI members was linked to a disruption of inner-core diabatic heating, a more tilted vortex, and vortex breakdown, as the simulated TCs transitioned from a vorticity annulus toward a monopole structure. A column-integrated moist static energy (MSE) budget revealed the important role of horizontal advection in depleting MSE from the TC core, while mesoscale subsidence beneath the dry-air intrusion acted to dry a deep layer of the troposphere. Eventually, the dry-air intrusion retreated from late-RI members as vertical wind shear weakened, the magnitude of vortex tilt decreased, and late-RI members began to rapidly intensify, ultimately reaching a similar intensity as early-RI members. Conversely, the vortex structures of early-RI members were shown to exhibit greater intrinsic resilience to tilting from vertical wind shear, and early-RI members were able to fend off the dry-air intrusion relatively unscathed. The different TC intensity evolutions can be traced back to differences in the initial TC vortex structure and intensity.

Significance Statement

Despite recent advances, tropical cyclone intensity forecasts struggle to accurately predict episodes of rapid intensification. Such forecasts become increasingly challenging when a storm is embedded within an environment of moderate vertical wind shear. This study uses an ensemble of high-resolution simulations to examine how environmental influences can affect the tropical cyclone vortex and precipitation structure, which, in turn, modulate the intensity of the storm and the onset of rapid intensification. We propose a feedback that exists where slightly weaker and less resilient vortices are more susceptible to ventilation from dry, environmental air, aided in part by differential advection from the tilted circulation, resulting in a degradation of vortex organization and a delayed onset of rapid intensification.
Edward Lear, the Illustrated Excursions in Italy and the Making of a Tourist Imaginary
Authors: D’Alfonso Francesca
Published: October 2022

My essay intends to demonstrate the significance of the Abruzzi region in Edward Lear's artistic vision. In particular, it aims to show that, in a certain sense, two contrasting personalities coexisted in Lear, and determined his attitude towards the many places he visited in his horseback excursions of the Abruzzi, a region quite far from the main routes of the Grand Tour. On the one hand, Lear was greatly inspired and fascinated by the landscapes he had the opportunity to admire almost everywhere in the Abruzzi and, as a landscape painter, he responded to this visual experience enthusiastically. On the other hand, as a British traveller, he was shocked to see that the notables he met in Chieti, Villalago, Sulmona and Città Sant’Angelo, lived in old, dilapidated houses with terrible hygienic conditions and pervasive uncleanliness. In this respect, Lear’s attitude seems to oscillate between that of an artist with a romantic view of people and cultures, and a pragmatic Briton who regards his country’s ways as a sort of model for the rest of the world.
“A Voice to Uplift Other People”: A Case Study of Integrating Organizing Methods in an FQHC-Based COVID-19 Vaccine Initiative in Latinx Communities
Authors: Vazquez Rosa , Navarrete Aileen , Thien Nguyen An , Montiel Gloria Itzel
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of trauma for working-class communities who have experienced trauma from systemic inequity and racism. Early pandemic response efforts failed to reach the most vulnerable Latinx communities in the United States due to historic disinvestment in these communities. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) were uniquely positioned to respond to the pandemic through testing and vaccine implementation because of their footprint in these communities. However, to advance equitable COVID-19 recovery and long-term, trauma-informed community resilience, FQHCs need to expand their role beyond immediate response through testing and vaccine deployment. Applying Freirean principles of liberation to an integrated model for crisis recovery and community resilience-building, this article presents a case study of the implementation of a COVID-19 vaccine outreach and education initiative at AltaMed Health Services, one of the largest FQHCs in the United States. Findings suggest that leveraging organizing and empowerment strategies to implement COVID-19 vaccine distribution in working-class communities contributes to pathways for community health and well-being, infrastructure for crisis response and recovery, equitable service and information delivery ecosystems, and engaged and empowered communities. Lessons from this study can provide a blueprint for integrating strategies for long-term community resilience, capacity-building, and empowerment in crisis response and community harm mitigation initiatives. Findings from this study also present a model for enhancing the role of FQHCs to facilitate community organizing and engagement for health equity.
Prison-based democratic therapeutic communities, medication, and the power to exclude
Authors: Ross Callum , Page Ruairi
Published: October 2022

In 1962, the first custodial Democratic Therapeutic Community (DTC) was established in the English prison estate at HMP Grendon. Today, the Category B male prison estate in England and Wales has three DTCs and three ‘TC+’ units for prisoners with learning disabilities. There is one DTC in the female estate at HMP Send. The services fall under the remit of the Offender Personality Disorder Pathway, a jointly commissioned initiative that aims to provide a pathway of psychologically informed services for a highly complex and challenging group of prisoners who are likely to have a severe personality disorder. Several of these units make clear that prisoners prescribed psychotropic medicines are specifically excluded from entry and participation in the available therapy. This analysis paper explores whether an evidence-based rationale exists for this practice and examines the impact on those whose care pathways may comprise hospitals and prisons.
Improving Performance and Metacognitive Awareness in Listening through Metacognitive Instruction for Chinese Language Learners
Authors: Zhang Limei , Yu Xiaoqin , Goh Christine CM
Published: October 2022

This article introduces the use of the Metacognitive Awareness Listening Questionnaire (MALQ) in Chinese learning to improve Singapore secondary students’ Chinese listening ability. The practice aims to promote students’ metacognitive awareness using a metacognitive approach through a series of activities centred on the MALQ. The results suggest that the metacognitive approach improved students’ listening comprehension ability as well as their metacognitive awareness, indicating the importance of incorporating MALQ-based strategy instruction into regular listening courses on a long-term basis.
Spinning joint scheduling strategy and its optimization method based on data and empirical knowledge
Authors: Zhang Sudao , Xue Wenliang , Gao Yongshan , Kong Weijian , He Shanshan
Published: October 2022

Spinning end breakage is a major factor limiting the efficiency of the spinning process, and this paper proposes a digital method of spinning joint management. Based on the broken ends data collected by a single spindle monitoring system and guided by the empirical knowledge obtained from a factory investigation, a genetic algorithm-based spinning joint scheduling model is built with the minimum spinning machine idle time as the optimization objective. Three different heuristic rules are introduced in generating the initial population, and their relationship with the distribution of broken ends is discussed; to curb the potential efficiency loss, the broken ends are classified by the data obtained from the single spindle monitoring, and the priority joint task is introduced in the model. The experimental results show that, compared with the traditional S-tour, the model with heuristic rule 2 can reduce the machine idle time by 43% on average, and the priority-based model can reduce it by 42% on average. They both have comparable optimization capabilities, but the priority-based model avoids more serious production loss and is the superior choice.
IGBO Version of the Older People’s Quality Of Life Questionnaire (OPQOL-35) Is Valid and Reliable: Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation
Authors: Mgbeojedo Ukamaka Gloria , Ekigbo Chisom Cassandra , Okoye Emmanuel Chiebuka , Ekechukwu Echezona Nelson , Justina Okemuo Adaora , Ikele Chioma Nneka , Akosile Christopher Olusanjo
Published: October 2022

To translate, cross-culturally adapt, and psychometrically evaluate the Older People’s Quality of Life Questionnaire (OPQOL-35) among the Igbo older adult population in Enugu State. The original English OPQOL-35 (E-OPQOL-35) was translated into Igbo language, synthesized, back translated, and subsequently subjected to expert panel review, pre-testing and cognitive debriefing interview. The final Igbo version (I-OPQOL-35) was tested for internal consistency, concurrent, and structural validities in a cross-sectional study of 115 consenting apparently healthy older adults that were conveniently recruited from Enugu State, at 0.05 level of significance. The Spearman correlation coefficients between the participants’ domain and total scores on the I-OPQOL-35 and E-OPQOL-35 (rho = .92-1.00) were excellent. The Mann–Whitney U test revealed no significant difference between corresponding scores in the E-OPQOL-35 and I-OPQOL-35 ( P = .65-.94). The internal consistency coefficient of the I-OPQOL-35 was 0.78. The ceiling and floor effects were 0% respectively. The I-OPQOL-35 is therefore a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of quality of life among Igbo older adults in Nigeria.
When threat is imminent, does character matter for climate action? Exploring environmental concerns, well-being, and character strengths in the Pacific Island Countries
Authors: Crookes Annie E , Warren Meg A , Meyer Sierra
Published: October 2022

Pacific Island Countries are particularly vulnerable to the environmental and economic consequences of climate change including both direct and indirect impacts on individuals’ mental health. There is a need to better understand the links between environmental attitudes, pro-environmental behaviours, and well-being in this region and to develop cost-effective, culturally informed interventions. The present study explored the level of environmental concerns and attitudes among Pacific Island university students and how this relates to their overall well-being, the nature of their current pro-environmental actions, and the potential for individuals’ character strengths to predict pro-environmental attitudes. College students ( n = 269) from six Pacific Island Countries completed a survey measuring their character strengths, well-being, and environmental support. As expected, the young adults had very high levels of concern about environmental threats, and this was related to their overall well-being. The young adults felt a personal responsibility to protect the environments around their local communities, which suggests national climate change strategies should be embedded within this localised context. Character strengths were highly valued among the Pacific Island sample and showed some association with (specifically) support for environmental actions and policies. Given the high levels of environmental concern in the sample, the character strengths approach likely provides a bridge between emotional engagement and active allyship in some individuals. Therefore, further research should investigate the role of character strengths in empowering pacific students to play a more leading role in policy change.
Reducing students’ ecological footprints through self-developed interventions
Authors: Wagner Claire , Gibberd Jeremy
Published: October 2022

An increasing emphasis on taking personal responsibility for making changes to address climate change and support sustainable development is hindered by the limited tools and guidance available that enable the relationship between living patterns and environmental impacts to be readily and accurately discerned. An exception is the ecological footprint calculator that measures the global environmental impact of everyday activities. This study describes how the ecological footprint calculator is used as part of a master’s course in environmental psychology to enable students to understand, change, and measure the environmental impacts of their daily activities. A case study design based on students’ exercises was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data. We found relational, environment, financial, and self-efficacy themes embedded in their reflections on the intervention process. Our study supports an educational approach that requires students to self-develop, implement, and measure interventions to reduce their ecological footprint.
Three Fish at One Hook? Future-Oriented, Reconciliatory, and Defensive Claims for Historical Closure as Expressions of the Same Defensive Desire
Authors: Kazarovytska Fiona , Imhoff Roland
Published: October 2022

Historical perpetrator groups seek to shield themselves from image threat by advocating for closing the discussion of their crimes. However, from a broader theoretical perspective, such demand for historical closure (HC) may also reflect willingness to reconcile with the victim group or to focus on the future rather than the past. In nine studies across four different contexts (Germany, United States, Italy, and Australia; N = 3405), we analyzed whether these three facets of HC (defensive, reconciliatory, and future-oriented) indeed substantially differ. Contrary to expectations, nomological network analyses suggested that all three facets reflect the same defensive desire (Studies 1a–2c) and are perceived as overall similar from a third-party perspective (Study 3). Finally, all three HC facets showed a positive trend toward costly avoidance of confrontation with the ingroup’s perpetrator past (Studies 4a–c). We discuss implications for (and against) a more nuanced understanding of the demand for HC.
Reconsidered surgical aortic valve replacement after declined transcatheter valve implantation
Authors: Luthra Suvitesh , Leiva-Juarez Miguel M , Malvindi Pietro G , Navaratanaraja Manoraj , Curzen Nick , Ohri Sunil K
Published: October 2022

Background

Outcomes for high surgical risk patients who declined transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and then reconsidered for conventional aortic valve replacement (rSAVR) for severe calcific aortic stenosis are not well known.

Methods

This single-centre, case–control study (rSAVR vs Conservative group) retrospectively analysed patients for rSAVR (2009–2019). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of composite of neurological sequelae/renal failure/deep sternal wound infection/re-exploration and death. Survival was compared using Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank test. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to determine predictors of survival.

Results

TAVI was denied in 519/1095 patients, 114(10.4%) had rSAVR (cases) and 405 (37%) were managed conservatively (controls). Mean age for rSAVR was 80 years (IQR: 73.5–85 years). The commonest reason for declining TAVI was prohibitive high risk due to multiple comorbidities. Among rSAVR, hospital mortality was 2.2% and stroke was 4.4%. Median follow-up was conservative; 14.4 months versus rSAVR; 34.8 months. Five-year survival was conservative; 12.6% versus rSAVR; and 59.5% (overall conservative; 38.0% vs. rSAVR; 60.5%, p < 0.001). rSAVR was protective (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26, 0.51, p < 0.001) and high comorbidities had high hazard (HR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.19, 2.07, p = 0.001). rSAVR had fewer hospital readmission episodes (Conservative; 13.6/patient-year vs. rSAVR; 6.9/patient-year, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

rSAVR may be considered in high surgical risk elderly patients who have been declined TAVI in centres with low operative mortality. rSAVR may be superior to conservative management in carefully selected patients.
Use of the FilmArray® Meningitis/Encephalitis panel to detect pathogenic microorganisms in cerebrospinal fluid specimens: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Hara Makoto , Ishihara Masaki , Nakajima Hideto
Published: October 2022

Objective

Meningitis and encephalitis are neurological emergencies requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment. The performance of the FilmArray® Meningitis/Encephalitis (ME) panel, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction test, and conventional methods for diagnosing meningitis and encephalitis was compared.

Methods

This retrospective study assessed 20 patients diagnosed with meningitis or encephalitis according to clinical symptoms and laboratory examination findings between January 2018 and December 2019. The results of the FilmArray® ME panel were compared with those of conventional methods.

Results

Pathogens were identified in 11 (55%) patients using the FilmArray® ME panel and in nine (45%) patients using conventional methods. The test identified herpes simplex virus type 1 in two patients, herpes simplex virus type 2 in one, varicella-zoster virus in four, Streptococcus pneumoniae in three, and Cryptococcus neoformans in one. Furthermore, additional pathogens were detected (n = 1, S. pneumoniae and n = 1, varicella-zoster virus). The median times to pathogen identification were 2 hours using the FilmArray® ME panel and 96 hours with conventional methods.

Conclusions

The sensitivity of the FilmArray® ME panel for rapidly detecting the most common pathogens was similar to that of conventional methods. Hence, this method could decrease the time to definitive diagnosis and treatment initiation.
(Re)building first Nations community economies: From forest to frame
Authors: Persaud Anthony W , Bhattacharyya Jonaki , Ross Russell Myers
Published: October 2022

This paper uses the example of First Nations housing in British Columbia to explore how culturally legitimate community economies are being advanced to overcome the deficiencies of top-down, state-led housing efforts and market relations. Through the lens of the diverse economy, we highlight how First Nations community institutions can and do serve to oversee the utilization of territorial forest resources for the production and distribution of housing materials locally. The findings point towards First Nations communities navigating (often in latent ways) complex sites of decision-making through: ethical negotiations related to (de)commoditization; needs and surplus evaluation; and transactions and rules of (in) commensurability. While these examples appear to challenge the conventional logics of capitalist-market institutions, First Nations communities also must contend with the many structural barricades to change that exist within the settler-colonial institutional framework.
Optimizing Integrated All-Stop, Express, and Short-Turn Services on a Metro Line with Capacity Constraint Considering Passenger Spatio-Temporal Path Choice
Authors: Qu Hezhou , Wang Ziyi , Liu Xiaobo
Published: October 2022

Optimization of integrated train service is quite challenging under the situation of express trains overtaking local trains, because passenger path choice becomes more complicated and is largely unknown. To fill this gap, this study proposes a passenger spatio-temporal path choice model to replicate passenger behaviors given the real-time operation information in the metro system. Based on which, a non-linear programming model is developed to optimize integrated train services (i.e., all-stop, express, and short-turn) and the associated train timetables to minimize the total cost for a congested metro line, subject to a set of constraints (i.e., capacity, headway, service pattern, conditions of overtaking, etc.). The genetic algorithm with floating-point number coding is used to perform the optimization. It is applied to a real-world metro line in Chengdu, China, to assess its feasibility and effectiveness. The experimental results indicate that the integrated service is substantially improved in relation to total cost. The sensitivity analysis is conducted to explore the impacts of model parameters on various operation strategies. The proposed modeling approach is beneficial for transit agencies to improve their service planning.
Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 infection elicits cross-protective immunity in people who received boosters or infected with variant strains
Authors: Chowdhury Selia , Chowdhury Md. Shahraj , Chowdhury Nurjahan Shipa , Chowdhury Samia , Chowdhury Shajeda
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant of SARS-CoV-2 is the most antigenically unique SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern to date, which is currently widespread across the world. Omicron variant and its sublineages contain a plethora of mutations than other variants of concern, which increases their transmissibility and virulence. Concerns regarding potential immunological evasion have been reignited by emerging subvariants of the Omicron variant. Determining the effectiveness of Omicron-induced immunity and whether it is cross-protective against other variants is a crucial aspect of the research.

Method

A systematic search of relevant articles until September 25, 2022, from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect was done independently by two authors. A total of 11 articles discussing about immunological evasion of different Omicron subvariants were included in the study.

Results

Numerous studies have demonstrated that Omicron variant causes a restricted immune response after infection. Omicron infection boosts preexisting vaccine-induced immunity, but it may not be enough to establish widespread, cross-neutralizing humoral immunity in unvaccinated people.

Conclusion

Due to co-circulation and the emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants, findings highlight the importance of booster vaccinations for immune protection. More studies should focus on the efficacy of Omicron-induced immunity, its cross-protective properties against other variants, and development of a universal vaccine.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in vaccinated healthcare workers in Marrakech (Morocco)
Authors: Ben Houmich Taoufik , Tali Abdelali , Debbagh Fayrouz , Lamrani Hanchi Asma , Soraa Nabila
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had a considerable impact, causing millions of deaths worldwide, including many healthcare workers (HCWs). The pharmaceutical industry has been working diligently since the start of the pandemic to develop various vaccines to fight the spread of the virus and protect the population.

Objective

To study the seroprevalence of neutralizing anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in vaccinated HCWs at the Mohamed VI University Hospital in Marrakech and to determine the parameters that can influence immune response.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 138 HCWs was performed between October and December 2021 by measuring IgG antibodies directed against the spike antigen of SARS-CoV-2 using an Abbott Architect® SARS-CoV-2 IgG II assay.

Results

The mean age was 31.42 years, the sex ratio was 2.94 women to each man, and the overall prevalence was 97%. We found 39.5% of the participants had experienced COVID-19 infections pre-vaccination, which decreased to 26.8% after vaccination. Neutralizing antibody titers were dependent on the type of vaccine: they were higher with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the number of doses ( p < .001), and post-vaccine COVID-19 form. The post-vaccine COVID-19 infection rates were lower with the Sinopharm vaccine.

Conclusion

Heterologous vaccination with non-mRNA and mRNA vaccines and the consideration of post-vaccination COVID-19 infection as a booster could help optimize vaccine results while reducing potential side effects.
Interactive fiber-elastomer composites for locomotion mechanism
Authors: Ashir Moniruddoza , Lohse Felix , Nocke Andreas , Cherif Chokri
Published: October 2022

There is a considerable need for research to fully exploit the application potential of adaptive fiber-reinforced plastics based on functional materials, in particular with regard to industry-specific solutions. Hence, this paper presents the development of a locomotion mechanism based on fiber-elastomer composites with shape memory alloys. In order to attain this goal, shape memory alloys were textile-technically integrated into the reinforcing fabric in the weft direction using flat knitting technology. The functionalized reinforcing fabrics was infused by the vacuum assisted resin infusion with an elastomeric silicone matrix system. Later, an extensive electro-thermal-mechanical characterization of the fiber-elastomer composites by varying electrical power caused by the varying voltage amplitude was completed. The fiber-elastomer composites were then shaped in a cross-country ski as an example of locomotion mechanism. Finally, the forward movement of the cross-country skiers was realized by activating the shape memory alloy in the left and right leg.
Why Would a Child Have a Stroke?
Authors: Persa Laurel , Shaw Dennis WW , Amlie-Lefond Catherine
Published: October 2022

Identifying the etiology of childhood arterial ischemic stroke helps prevent stroke recurrence. In addition, stroke may herald a serious underlying condition requiring treatment, such as acquired heart disease, malignancy, or autoimmune disorder. Evidence-based guidelines exist for adults to identify and treat common risk factors for primary and secondary stroke, including hypertension, diabetes, elevated lipids, atrial fibrillation, and sleep apnea, which are rarely relevant in children. However, guidelines do not exist in pediatrics. Identifying the cause of childhood stroke may be straightforward or may require extensive clinical and neuroimaging expertise, serial evaluations, and reassessment based on the evolving clinical picture. Risk factors may be present but not necessarily causative, or not causative until a triggering event such as infection or anemia occurs. Herein, we describe strategies to determine stroke etiology, including challenges and potential pitfalls.
A modified thermal flux model to examine the enhanced heat transmission in hybrid blood flow through artery: A comparison between Maxwell and Oldroyd-B models
Authors: Rathore Niraj , N Sandeep
Published: October 2022

Nanotechnology assists high-class openings for biomedical purposes, which could impact medicine and health-related challenges. This technology benefits in many aspects, such as nanocarrier for targeted drug delivery, improved medical imaging, treatment of targeted tumors, and vaccination. Laboratory experiments show that with the help of nanoelectronic devices, the current treatment processes are improving effectively. The outstanding antimicrobial and biocompatibility properties of graphene oxide (GO) and aluminium oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles are helpful in nano-drug delivery and cancer treatment. In this article, a theoretical investigation is made to examine the heat transfer in GO-Al2O3 suspended blood flow through the stenotic artery. The 2D hybrid blood flow has radiative heat, uniform magnetic field, dissipative, and Cattaneo–Christov thermal flux effects. The comparison of Maxwell and Oldroyd-B hybrid nano models is deemed to analyze the viscoelastic nature of the blood. Altered governing equations are resolved by employing the Keller-Box scheme. Comparative results for Maxwell and Oldroyd-B models are obtained and shown graphically. The outcomes of this study show that the flow of GO-Al2O3 suspended blood under the Oldroyd-B model gives an improved heat transmission rate compared with the Maxwell model. Also, drug resistance is low in Oldroyd-B flow. The properties of GO-Al2O3 nanoparticle composition with the Oldroyd-B rheological nature may help drug delivery.
Numerical Investigation on the Flow underneath a High-Speed Train of Six Coaches Marshalled with Different Bogies
Authors: Zhu Jianyue , Hu Zhiwei , Xia Chao , Li Qiliang
Published: October 2022

The turbulent flow developed underneath a scaled high-speed train of six coaches featured with both conventional and articulated bogies is investigated based on computational fluid dynamics to establish a contribution to train aerodynamics. The numerical simulations are verified against the experimental measurements. It is found that strong unsteady flow develops around the train, particularly at the regions of nose car, leading bogie, articulated bogies, inter-carriage gaps and tail car, due to flow separations and vortex interactions generated around the geometries. High intensity turbulence appears around the nose, bogies, inter-carriage gaps and tail. Strong vortices and high degree of unsteadiness are produced within the flow between the train underbody and the ground, making the flow developed around the bogie regions of high turbulence. Interaction from the inter-car gap leads to a particularly strong vortical flow around the articulated bogie, causing a large slipstream in the regions close to the airspring and a larger drag. Thus the bogie configuration has a noticeable influence on the train underbody flow.
Dress codes written for dietetics education programs: A Foucauldian discourse analysis
Authors: “Shelly” DeBiasse Michele A , Peters Shannon M , Bujiriri Baderha
Published: October 2022

Organized in the US in 1917, dietetics emerged from the discipline of home economics as an “acceptable” area of study for women. Since its inception, dietetics has lacked diversity; most dietetics professionals identify as white, cisgender, heterosexual, middle to upper-middle-class women. In the supervised practice setting, interns are expected to dress “professionally” and follow health/safety protocols. Given the field’s history, it is reasonable to suspect that dress codes—rules/expectations regarding what employees/participants can/cannot wear—for dietetics programs may be problematic. To explore this, we conducted a discourse analysis using a Foucauldian feminist approach, drawing on the notion of governmentality. Eighty-five dietetics dress codes, supplemented with survey questions, from US-based accredited dietetics education programs were analyzed. Three primary discursive effects were identified: “Invisibilizing” informs dietetics students/interns how to be professional and modest. “Protecting” highlights dress to promote health and safety. “Normalizing” privileges conforming to thin, cisgender, white European women of higher SES. These findings show how the dress codes reify a “model” dietitian and privilege/oppress/discipline some bodies over others, supporting criticisms of dietetics dress codes as discriminatory and oppressing/privileging select societal groups. Recommendations are provided to address biases and prevent dress codes from negatively impacting diversity/inclusion in the profession.
The specialization of informal social control in a selective community: Fighting in the National Hockey League from 1947 to 2019
Authors: Sirianni Antonio D
Published: October 2022

Decentralized sanctioning arises from a demand for governance that is not adequately provided by the state or another strong and centralized institution. While the dynamics of collective action and sanctioning have been well-examined theoretically, experimentally, and empirically, this work typically assumes community membership is a given. In selective or elite communities, pro-social behavior of one kind or another may be a prerequisite of community membership, which may create perverse incentives for the implementation of peer-sanctions. This article quantitatively examines this phenomenon in the case of professional ice hockey, a highly selective community where fist-fighting between players has long existed as a form of self-help for players to address rule infractions or violent play otherwise unaddressed by officials. An empirical examination of over 70 years of player statistics and play-by-play data from the National Hockey League shows not only the evolution of this system from one of peer-sanctioning to one of specialized-sanctioning, as might be predicted from experimental results showing the favorability and efficacy of more centralized punishment regimes, but also reveals how specialization has led to self-serving sanctions. Less-skilled players who are presumably hired to fight are disproportionately likely to participate in fights that appear to occur for non-retaliatory reasons, and more likely to fight one another in a bid to maintain their status and reputation as sanctioners, and consequently their membership in an elite community.
Back to School After School Closure in the Pandemic: Student Discipline Problems
Authors: Kiral Bilgen
Published: October 2022

The study was carried out to determine the disciplinary problems students experienced on returning to school after the pandemic. This is a case study, one of the qualitative research designs conducted with five principals working in high schools in Turkey, who volunteered to participate in the research in the first semester of the 2021–2022 academic year. Principals were selected according to the snowball sampling method. In the research, disciplinary problems were handled as personal, against friends, and disorganizing problems. When the reasons for disciplinary problems are examined, they are psychological, technological, social-emotional, familial, academic, and school orders. The measures by principals taken are reward-punishment and positive language and approaches.
Effects of Community-Based Wraparound Services on Child and Caregiver Outcomes Following Child Protective Service Involvement
Authors: Connell Christian M. , Kim Hyun Woo , Shipe Stacey L. , Pittenger Samantha L. , Tebes Jacob Kraemer
Published: October 2022

This study investigated whether statewide delivery of the wraparound service model (WSM) improved child and caregiver outcomes and reduced subsequent child protective service (CPS) contact among families referred to services following a CPS report. Caregivers ( n = 247) completed baseline and 6-month interviews to document self-reported engagement in WSM and non-WSM conditions and assess changes in outcomes. Kernel-weighted difference-in-difference (K-DID) models were used to assess program effects, based on reported condition. Child behavior outcomes improved among WSM-engaged families, but differences by condition were non-significant except for internalizing behaviors. Caregiver receipt of WSM was associated with greater retention of behavioral health services, but did not produce statistically significant improvements in their wellbeing. Households in the WSM condition were more likely to be reported to CPS at 6-month follow-up, but this difference was not significant at 12 months and differences in substantiation were not statistically significant. Supplemental analyses compared alternative means of contrasting group effects, highlighting some differences based on method. The WSM produced few significant differential improvements in child or caregiver outcomes and failed to prevent future CPS involvement. Inadequate program fidelity appeared to be a factor in implementation of the WSM, which may have hampered program effectiveness under real-world conditions.
Effects of Exercise Training on Inflammatory and Cardiometabolic Risk Biomarkers in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hejazi Keyvan , Mohammad Rahimi Gholam Rasul , Rosenkranz Sara K.
Published: October 2022

Background

The interaction between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiometabolic morbidity and mortality stems from the progressive nature of inflammation underpinning both diseases. Exercise training is considered an effective treatment strategy for T2DM and cardiometabolic diseases.

Objective

The current systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of exercise training on inflammatory and cardiometabolic risk biomarkers in patients with T2DM.

Data sources

Electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception to January 2022. We used random effects models to estimate weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals.

Study selection

Twenty-five RCTs were included ( N = 1257 participants; mean age = 52 years). Included studies had moderate to good overall methodological quality (TESTEX = 9 (range 7–13).

Results

Meta-analysis indicated that exercise training significantly increased adiponectin and decreased fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein ( ps ≤ 0.05). Subgroup analysis by type of training indicated that aerobic exercise had the most consistent beneficial effects as compared to other types of exercise training; however, there was high heterogeneity among studies.

Conclusion

Different types of exercise training increase adiponectin levels and decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP, as well as fasting insulin and insulin resistance markers in patients with T2DM. However, these effects were not beneficial for more commonly measured cardiometabolic risk factors (i.e., lipid profiles). Additional relevant clinical trials are required to confirm these results.

Trial registration

This systematic review and meta-analysis was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022307396).
Changes in Telomere Length and Indicators of Oxidative Stress in Critically Ill Mechanically Ventilated Adults – A Pilot Study
Authors: Liang Zhan , Saugar Elaine E. , Alamian Arsham , Ferreira Tanira , Downs Charles A.
Published: October 2022

Background

Telomeres are structures at the end of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. The purpose of this pilot project is to report changes in telomere length (T/S ratio), indicators of oxidative stress (serum protein carbonyl, vitamin C, GSH:GSSG, and total antioxidant capacity) from Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission to ICU discharge, and to explore their association with ICU-related morbidities among critically ill mechanically ventilated adults.

Methods

Blood was collected from mechanically ventilated patients ( n = 25) at enrollment and within 48 hours of ICU discharge. Telomere length from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was determined using RTqPCR. ELISAs were used to measure indicators of oxidative stress. Descriptive analysis, paired t-tests, and Pearson’s correlations were performed.

Results

Mean age was 62.0 ± 12.3 years, 28.6% were male, and 76.2% were White with disease severity using APACHE III (74.6 ± 24.6) and SOFA (7.6 ± 3.2). Mean T/S ratios shortened (ICU: 0.712, post-ICU: 0.683, p < 0.001, n = 19) and serum protein carbonyl increased (ICU: 7437 nmol/mg ± 3328, post-ICU: 10,254 nmol/mg ± 3962, p < 0.005) as did the oxidative stress index (protein carbonyl/GSH:GSSG, ICU: 1049.972 ± 420.923, post-ICU: 1348.971 ± 417.175, p = 0.0104). T/S ratio was positively associated with APACHE III scores (ICU: r = 0.474, post-ICU: r = 0.628, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Pilot findings suggest that critical illness significantly correlates with telomere attrition, perhaps due to increased oxidative stress. Future larger and longitudinal studies investigating mechanisms of telomere attrition and associations with clinical outcomes are needed to identify potential modifiable factors for subsequent intervention to improve outcomes for critically ill patients.
Changes of symptomatology, tear film and ocular surface integrity one week during Somofilcon-A and Omafilcon-A lens wear
Authors: Pena-Verdeal Hugo , Noya-Padin Veronica , Losada-Oubiña Martin , Saborido-Rey Marcos , Vilas-Alonso Manuel , Giraldez Maria J.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Clinicians play a key role in prescribing contact lenses that best suited for fitting which materials had an impact on ocular surface parameters. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact on symptomatology, tear film dynamics and ocular surface integrity of a silicone-hydrogel (Somofilcon-A) and a hydrogel (Omafilcon-A) lens before and after wearing for one week in contact lens neophyte participants.

Methods

A Somofilcon-A and Omafilcon-A were randomly fitted to one or other the eye on an initial group of 28 participants. Subjects were scheduled for three sessions: basal session previous fitting, second session after 4-wear hours, and final session after 7-wear days for up to 10 h. In each session, CLDEQ-8, tear meniscus height and hyperemia with and without lenses, as well as lipid layer thickness and corneal/conjunctival staining without lenses were assessed. Values were compared between lenses and sessions.

Results

In intrasession comparison, there were no differences in any parameter between materials on any session with or without lenses (all p≥0.176), except on the conjunctival staining where values obtained during Somofilcon-A wear (all p ≤ 0.006). In intersession analysis, CLDEQ-8 score, tear meniscus height and lipid layer thickness showed a statistical difference during both materials wear (all p ≤ 0.009), while conjunctival hyperemia does not (p  =  0.237); corneal staining showed differences during Omafilcon-A wear (p  =  0.037), contrary to conjunctival staining which showed differences only during Somofilcon-A wear (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Contact lenses wear had an impact on ocular parameters that have some specific influences of the material on which lenses were manufactured.