bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political Regimes, Religious Dominance, and Economic Preferences: Insights from the World Values Survey and Global State of Democracy Indices
Authors: Jadhav Vivek
Published: December 2024

Objective

This research explores how political regimes, individual incomes, and religious dominance influence societies' attitudes toward freedom, equality, and income inequality. This work applies an empirical framework on political regimes and socio‐religious contexts to study the impacts of political regimes and socioeconomic variables on individual beliefs about freedom, equality, and income inequality.

Methods

Utilizing data from the World Values Survey (WVS) along with the Global State of Democracy (GSoD) indices, the study employs a two‐stage regression model to control for issues of endogeneity. This approach helps to understand differences in preferences for freedom and equality under democratic, authoritarian, and hybrid regimes, along with the influence of income and religious dominance.

Findings

The results show that democratic regimes prioritize equality, especially among the poor and members of non‐dominant religious groups. Under authoritarian regimes, however, high‐income populations tend to favour freedom. Hybrid regimes exhibit varied tendencies, with both income status and religious dominance significantly influencing perceptions of equality.

Conclusion

This research contributes to understanding how political, economic, and religious factors shape societal preferences. The results provide insights into the complex interplay between governance, socioeconomic conditions, and individual preferences.
Influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and planting density on bacterial communities in Northwest China's mine areas
Authors: Wang Xiao , Bi Yinli , Zhou Yang , Xiao Linfei
Published: December 2024

Research into the effects of plantations, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation and their interplay on soil microbial communities has emerged as a pivotal focus in the restoration of mining areas. This study investigated how AMF inoculation, plantation density and their interaction shaped bacterial communities in a mining region in Northwest China. A field experiment was conducted with three plantation densities, both with and without AMF inoculation. Soil physicochemical properties, understory vegetation composition, extracellular enzyme activities, as well as soil bacterial and functional communities, were comprehensively analysed. The two‐way ANOVA results revealed significant influences of plantation density and AMF inoculation on the understory vegetation community, soil properties, bacterial communities, and their functional traits (p < .05). Higher planting densities and increased AMF biomass notably elevated soil carbon and nitrogen levels, litter inputs and the clay and silt content of the soil (p < .05). Across all samples, phosphorus limitation was evident in soil microbial activity, as indicated by a vector angle exceeding 45°. Mantel analysis further identified soil carbon and phosphorus as key determinants shaping bacterial communities (Mantel's p < .05). Importantly, AMF inoculation exerted a more pronounced impact on bacterial functional traits compared to plantation density (p < .05). In addition, the intermediate planting density in inoculated treatments yielded the highest available phosphorus, microbial biomass phosphorus and understory vegetation biomass, as well as the lowest microbial phosphorus limitation. Therefore, our study, which provided a comprehensive analysis of the influence of planting density and AMF inoculation on soil and bacterial communities, recommended intermediate planting density and AMF inoculation for optimal results.
Influence of skin preparation on surgical site infection and lift of adhesive surgical drapes
Authors: Gant James W. , Collins Josh E. , Miller Zachary A. , Einsporn Richard L.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To determine the influence on surgical site infection (SSI) rates when using 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol versus 2% chlorhexidine and 70% isopropyl alcohol. To evaluate the adherence of an iodophor‐impregnated surgical incise drape when used in conjunction with 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol.

Study design

Combines retrospective control and prospective data.

Sample population

This study included dogs and cats, 653 retrospective cases and 435 prospective cases, with 447 incisions.

Methods

The SSI rate of a 2% chlorhexidine and 70% isopropyl alcohol preparation was retrospectively reviewed. The prospective population received 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol; risk factors for SSI were evaluated and incise drape lift was documented.

Results

A 1.8% difference in SSI between the chlorhexidine group and 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol group was found (p = .25). The drape lift was 13.2%. Drape lift (p = .026), increased body weight (p = .008), and the use of glutaraldehyde for instrument sterilization (p = .055) were associated with an increased risk of SSI development.

Conclusion

The 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol treatments demonstrated similar effectiveness to 2% chlorhexidine and 70% isopropyl alcohol in skin preparation. Using an iodophor‐impregnated drape with 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol reduced both drape lift and the risk of SSI.

Clinical significance

These findings support the combined use of an incise drape with 0.7% iodophor and 74% isopropyl alcohol preparation, provide evidence against the use of glutaraldehyde, and indicate that heavier patients have an increased risk of SSI.
Effects of short‐course virtual reality or video‐box training on basic laparoscopic skills and simulated surgical performance in veterinary students
Authors: Hottmann Natasha M. , Fransson Boel A.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To compare novices' performance on simulated laparoscopic tasks with a box trainer and virtual reality (VR) trainer before and after training on one system, and to compare performance between groups following training.

Study design

Randomized, prospective study.

Sample population

Twelve veterinary students without prior hands‐on laparoscopic experience were randomly assigned to the box or VR training group.

Methods

Performance of basic laparoscopic tasks on box and VR trainers and simulated surgical task were scored before and after completion of a designated training program. Scores for each task were compared within and between groups.

Results

The box group's post‐training scores were higher than pretraining scores for all box tasks. The VR group's post‐training scores were higher than pretraining scores for most VR tasks. Median post‐training scores were higher in the box group than the VR group for all box tasks. Median post‐training scores were higher for the VR group than the box group only for VR intracorporeal suturing. Neither program led to a substantial improvement in simulated surgical task performance.

Conclusion

In this study the box trainer seemed more effective than the VR trainer for training novices to perform most basic tasks. The lack of substantial improvement of simulated surgical task performance is likely related to study limitations including small sample size and short training timeline.

Impact

Both training systems increased basic laparoscopic skills in novices. Laparoscopic simulation training may be applicable within veterinary school curricula. Additional studies are warranted to assess these systems with different tasks and trainee experience.
Clinically relevant evaluation of the antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties of nanocrystalline and nanomolecular silver
Authors: Pletts Matthew W. , Burrell Robert E.
Published: December 2024

Burns and chronic wounds present significant challenges in wound management due to risks of infection, excessive inflammation, and prolonged healing. Silver‐based treatments have long been central to burn care, but limitations have prompted the exploration of nanocrystalline silver as an alternative, with its nanoscale properties offering distinct benefits. This paper reviews the structure, properties, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications of nanocrystalline silver in burn and general wound management, with particular emphasis on how wound healing processes inform the application of these dressings. Nanocrystalline silver's high surface area‐to‐volume ratio and crystal structure enhance its antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory efficacy. Nanocrystalline silver's mechanisms of action are disrupting cellular functions, inducing DNA damage, and inhibiting biofilms. Clinical studies demonstrate accelerated healing and reduced inflammation compared to traditional treatments. Whilst nanocrystalline silver dressings are costly, their effectiveness in lowering drug‐resistant infections and minimising complications supports a financial case for their use, potentially reducing overall wound care expenses. Considerations of cytotoxicity, allergic reactions, and accessibility underscore the importance of individualised treatment selection based on wound and patient factors. In conclusion, nanocrystalline silver holds substantial promise in burn wound management, and further research is warranted to optimise its therapeutic potential and economic benefits in clinical practice.
On the Generation of Tuned Test Problems for Stress Concentrations Induced by Shear Tractions
Authors: Kardak A. A. , Sinclair G. B.
Published: December 2024

When stress concentration factors are not available in handbooks, finite element analysis has become the predominant method for determining their values. For such determinations, there is a need to know if they have sufficient accuracy. Tuned test problems can provide a way of assessing the accuracy of stress concentration factors found with finite elements. Previously, we offered a means of constructing such test problems for stress concentrations within boundaries that have local constant radii of curvature, and are subjected to tensile loading. Here we extend the means of construction for the same local geometry, but now with the stress concentrations being induced by shear loading. These new test problems are tuned to their originating shear applications by sharing the same global geometries and having slightly higher peak stresses. Consequently, they are a little more challenging to analyze with finite elements than their originating shear applications. These test problems also have exact solutions. Thus a precise determination can be made of the errors incurred in their finite element analysis. Given the increased challenge of these test problems, their errors are likely to serve as upper bounds on the errors incurred when their originating configurations are analyzed with the same set of finite element meshes.
Optimization Algorithm-Based Fault-Tolerant Resilient Control for Helicopter System: The Finite-Time Case
Authors: Satheesh T. , Anisha T. M. , Sakthivel R. , Elayabharath V. T. , Ren Y.
Published: December 2024

This paper centers on the finite-time control problem of the helicopter system in the midst of external disturbances, gain fluctuations, and actuator faults. Precisely, the finite-time boundedness and input–output finite-time stability are obtained concurrently to preclude huge undesirable values for both state and output, respectively, during specific transients. In particular, a particle swarm optimization setup is put forward for lowering the cost function and enhancing the overall reliability of the system. Furthermore, the fault-tolerant resilient control scheme is tailored to exhibit strong resistance to failures in the actuator and variations in the gain matrix. By blending the Lyapunov stability theory with the concept of finite time, we attain the essential requirements to ensure the stability of the closed-loop system over a finite span of time. Subsequently, the explicit methodology for obtaining the gain matrix is laid out pursuant to the established requirements. In particular, simulation results are presented to analyze the potential and significance of the devised control scheme.
Chaos Detection in Generalized ψ-Fractional Differential Systems
Authors: N'Gbo N'Gbo , Li Changpin , Cai Min
Published: December 2024

This article focuses on investigating fractional Lyapunov exponents for generalized ψ-fractional differential systems. By employing a new and more suitable definition, we derive an expression for the fractional Lyapunov exponents using the inverse of the Mittag-Leffler function, which depends on the kernel, weight, and order of the considered fractional derivative. We also provide an upper bound for the obtained fractional Lyapunov exponents that is tighter than the one available in existing literature. Finally, experiments conducted on a hyperchaotic 5D system and the well-known Lorenz system serve to illustrate and verify our main results.
Comparison of a Full-Scale and a 1:10 Scale Low-Speed Two-Stroke Marine Engine Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Dal Forno Chuahy Flavio , Finney Charles E. A. , Kaul Brian C. , Kass Michael D.
Published: December 2024

International marine shipping is a growing component of international trade; a vast majority of all the world’s goods are being transported on large ocean-going vessels. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced the Energy Efficiency Design Index in 2013, a regulatory framework of associated metrics for reducing emissions of CO2 per tonne-mile from shipping by approximately 10% each decade. Therefore, decarbonizing the maritime sector requires the development of new fuel sources. Because of the extremely large physical size of the internal combustion engines present in shipping vessels, experimental iterative development of the engine and fuel system is cost-prohibitive. Thus, the ability to perform combustion system development in a scaled platform that can be more easily operated and modeled computationally is of interest. To that end, scaling relationships are needed to translate the results from a smaller engine to a larger counterpart. Scaling studies to date have been restricted to low scaling ratios, four-stroke light-duty engines, and under-resolved computational fluid dynamic simulations that likely do not accurately capture the physics of scaling. In this work, computational models of a 1:10 scale and a full-scale two-stroke crosshead low-speed marine engine were created and validated against experiments obtained in a real 1:10 scale engine installed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Due to the large size of the full-scale engine, the model required large high-performance computing resources to be evaluated. The availability of high-performance computing resources at the Department of Energy’s Leadership Computing Facilities is an enabler of the current work. The results of the small- and large-scale engine simulations were compared to analyze the effectiveness of the appropriate scaling laws under these extreme scaling ratio conditions.
A Mini Review of Flexible Heat Spreaders Based on Functionalized Boron Nitride Nanosheets
Authors: Wu Mengying , Gao Jingyao , Dai Wen , Ma Hongbing , Nishimura Kazuhito , Yu Jinhong , Tang Ya , Jiang Nan , Lin Cheng-Te
Published: December 2024

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent progresses in flexible heat spreaders based on functionalized boron nitride nanosheets (f-BNNSs) and provides insights into the potential of this material for efficient thermal management solutions. The unique thermal properties of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNSs), such as high thermal conductivity and excellent mechanical flexibility, make them promising materials for heat dissipation. Various methods of functionalizing BNNSs to enhance their thermal and mechanical properties are discussed, including covalent functionalization and noncovalent functionalization. The numerous advanced methods to introduce f-BNNSs into polymers and the potential applications of the composites based on f-BNNSs in areas such as thermal management in electronic devices are also highlighted.
Laser Surface Texturing in Single-Point Incremental Sheet Forming
Authors: Li Weining , Jwad Tahseen , Dimov Stefan , Essa Khamis
Published: December 2024

Single-point incremental sheet forming (SPIF) offers high flexibility, cost-effectiveness, mass customization, ease of setup, and scalability. However, the process can result in poor surface characteristics, making it important to control them, especially for applications requiring enhanced wettability. To overcome this challenge, the present study introduces a novel technique that uses laser surface texturing (LST) to create micropatterns on the SPIF forming tool and replicate on the planar surface of workpiece. After SPIF process on the opposite side of the workpiece, the replicated micropatterns are maintained without significant effect to the laser textures and keep the surface's wettability. The 3D surface topography of the imprinted micropatterns was characterized. Additionally, a sessile drop test was performed to assess the wettability of the surface both before and after the deformation process. The results showed that a functionalized micropatterned surface can be achieved using the proposed technique without affecting the geometric accuracy. No cracks were observed on the workpiece surface, but during the SPIF process, deformation stretched the imprinted microvalleys, leading to a slight decrease in hydrophobicity compared to the original LST surface.
Design and Implementation of an Experimental Test Bench for the Study of Active Flow Control in Scale Wind Turbines
Authors: Franco Jesus Alejandro , Salinas-Anaya Gael
Published: December 2024

Advancements in wind turbine technology are critical for the global renewable energy landscape. The continuous growth of wind turbine capacities has presented various challenges for flow and power control strategies. New smart systems are mandatory to monitor and control loads and power effectively to guarantee optimal operation in current wind generation systems. While several methods have been proposed, experimental validation remains challenging due to operation costs, size, and time required to fabricate a fully scaled wind turbine prototype. Concerning this, the implementation of reduced-scaled wind turbine test benches offers an alternative to validate new flow control strategies for optimizing the efficiency of wind turbines. This paper presents the design and implementation of a wind turbine test bench for active flow control systems in small-scale wind turbines. The system includes a multidegree mounting system, a dynamic torque sensor, a permanent magnet generator, a pitch control system, and a configurable hub for different wind rotor designs. The design includes a finite element method (FEM) analysis to evaluate the different configurations of the proposed system. As a result, the implementation of the complete functional structure, dynamic sensors, and complementary elements is presented. Finally, an approach to the scaling methodology is revealed based on the mathematical criteria of similarity conditions between a lab-scale wind turbine model and a reference prototype, providing useful information on scaling techniques for wind turbines.
Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Rake on a Bluff Body Equipped With a Diffuser
Authors: Kekus-Kumor Pawel , Angland David
Published: December 2024

This article presents the results of an experimental investigation into the impact of rake, or inclination of the underfloor, on the aerodynamics of a bluff body equipped with an underbody diffuser. An extensive wind tunnel campaign, utilizing a remotely actuated model for faster data acquisition, showed that introducing rake results in a downforce increase at all ride heights and diffuser angles, with the strongest effect occurring at low ride heights. Surface pressure measurements on the underbody revealed this to be caused by three main effects. First, a large increase in loading at the front of the floor, due to the inclination of the floor with rake angle and subsequently an increase in the pressure pumping effect. Second, a reduction in the suction peak at the throat of the diffuser, which leads to reduced pressure recovery in the diffuser, and less likely separation at high diffuser angles or low ride heights. Third, stronger streamwise vortices along the edges of the underfloor and diffuser, which generate downforce directly due to their low-pressure cores, but also introduce upwash under the model, further inhibiting separation in the diffuser. As the related drag penalty is minimal, aerodynamic efficiency is also improved with increasing rake angle.
Shock Vector Control of a Double Divergent Nozzle for Futuristic Space Vehicles
Authors: Das Arnab K. , Mankodi Tapan K. , Saha Ujjwal K.
Published: December 2024

Double divergent nozzles (DDNs) have been explored in the recent years to enhance the launch capabilities of space vehicles. A DDN is touted to be beneficial for launch vehicles over a single divergent nozzle (SDN) because of its ability to mitigate the generation of side loads. In order to maintain stability under varying nozzle pressure ratios (NPRs) and control the attitude for such systems, thrust vectoring on a DDN becomes very important, which still remains an open area of research. Shock vector control (SVC) is the simplest of all fluidic thrust vectoring (FTV) techniques, which is used to deflect the nozzle's primary flow by the generation of a shock wave. The present study is conducted on the SVC of a two-dimensional (2D) planar DDN. Three different DDNs are considered by varying the base nozzle and the extension nozzle lengths for a fixed value of the inflection Mach number (IMN). It is observed that the SVC performance of a DDN depends on the location of the inflection point, indicating that it is the function of the lengths of the base nozzle and the extension nozzle. In the high NPR regime, the pitch thrust vector angles are the highest for the DDN configuration in which the base and the extension nozzles have equal lengths. At the highest tested NPR = 10, this DDN configuration achieves a pitch thrust vector angle which is approximately 50.46% higher than a reference SDN of similar nozzle area expansion ratio.
Modeling and Experimental Validation of Flow Ripple in a Variable Displacement Linkage Pump
Authors: Herrera-Perez Martin , Boyce-Erickson Grey , Van de Ven James
Published: December 2024

The optimal operation of hydraulic systems heavily relies on the performance of their pumps and motors. However, these machines often encounter a phenomenon known as flow ripple that causes periodic fluctuations in the outlet flowrate of the pumps, negatively impacting system components and contributing to operational inefficiencies. This prevalent challenge highlights the need for accurate flow ripple modeling and the development of effective mitigation strategies. This paper presents a combined modeling and experimental approach to characterize the influence of the velocity trajectory of pistons in a positive displacement pump on the flow ripple. The study considers a three-cylinder variable displacement linkage pump (VDLP). The model combines the kinematics of the pump linkage mechanism, the pressure dynamics in its piston chambers, and the dynamics of the inlet and outlet check valves to predict the cylinder pressures and individual cylinder flow rates. A prototype VDLP was instrumented and tested to validate the simulation models. Two cylinders of the pump were deactivated, enabling the pump to run with a single pumping element to isolate the flow profile from a single cylinder, allowing for a more direct comparison of simulation versus experimental data. Experiments were run across a range of operating pressures and pump displacements. The results demonstrated a good agreement between the simulation and experimental data, with a normalized mean absolute error (NMAE) between 7% and 30% at the corner conditions. The validated models enable future optimization of the piston trajectory in the VDLP design used as an example architecture in this study to minimize flow ripple.
Computational Simulation of the Hemodynamics in an Anatomic Carotid Artery Model: A Biphasic Blood Model
Authors: Ferreira Mariana , Carvalho Violeta , Pinho Diana , Lima Rui , Teixeira Senhorinha , Soares Armando A.
Published: December 2024

Numerical simulation of carotid artery bifurcation is essential for understanding blood flow dynamics in this complex region, aiding in identifying patterns associated with stress points and atherosclerosis risk. This information is valuable for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies for vascular diseases, as well as optimizing medical devices and surgical interventions. Simulations offer insights into blood flow at the carotid bifurcation, advancing biomedical research and clinical applications. Engineers use computational tools to address multiphase flow complexities, supporting efficient device design, quick simulations, and cost-effective exploration of fluid dynamics across phases. In this study, carotid artery hemodynamics were analyzed using a biphasic blood model (plasma and erythrocytes) via ansys software. Wall shear stresses (WSSs), strain rates (SRs), and red blood cells (RBCs) distribution were examined. Results showed that while strain rates were similar in both phases, wall shear stresses differed: plasma shear stress was about 7.17 times higher than that due to RBCs, and strain rates in plasma were approximately 2.2 times higher than in RBCs. Additionally, the pressure in RBCs was about 0.39% higher than in plasma. These findings highlight distinct hemodynamic behaviors in each phase, contributing to a deeper understanding of blood flow mechanics at the carotid bifurcation.
Species list of the Spanish herpetofauna: an update
Authors: Sánchez-Vialas Alberto , Buckley David , Recuero Ernesto , Martínez-Freiría Fernando , Velo-Antón Guillermo , Bisbal-Chinesta Josep , Martínez-Solano Iñigo
Published: December 2024

Since the last update of the list of the Spanish herpetofauna in 2018, recent studies have provided new evidence supporting the need to implement taxonomic changes in several groups. In this work, we present an updated reference list for the Spanish herpetofauna, which currently includes 132 native or historically introduced species, i.e. 37 amphibians and 95 reptiles, offering a standardized framework for amateurs, scientists, and environmental agencies. While updating the list, we had to undertake some nomenclatural acts. For instance, to solve the nomenclatural issues concerning Blanus species, we designate a neotype for Amphisbaena oxyura Wagler, 1824; thus, the valid name for the two recognized Iberian species are Blanus cinereus and Blanus oxyurus. We also provide an updated list for the 13 introduced species with documented breeding populations in Spain.
Comparing Differences and Relationships Between Traditional and Resisted Sprints in Elite Youth Rugby Backs and Forwards
Authors: Zabaloy Santiago , Freitas Tomás T. , Tomaghelli Luciano , Aparicio Juan , Vega Franco , Medrano Joaquín , Tondelli Eduardo , Pereira Lucas A. , Loturco Irineu
Published: December 2024

Purpose: We tested the differences in maximum strength and various parameters of sprint performance between youth backs and forwards. Additionally, we examined the associations among various strength-sprint measures, as well as between unresisted and heavy resisted sprints. Methods: Thirty-two youth rugby players were assessed at the beginning of the season with the following tests: unresisted and resisted (50% body mass) 30-m sprints and 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in the squat exercise. Body mass, sprint velocity, and 1RM values were compared between backs and forwards using an independent t test. Pearson product–moment correlation was used to assess the relationships between absolute and relative 1RM values (rel1RM) and unresisted and resisted sprints. Results: Youth backs outperform forwards in terms of maximum velocity and under resisted sprinting conditions. Furthermore, backs exhibit higher levels of rel1RM compared with forwards. Our findings indicate significant correlations between resisted and unresisted sprinting for several sprint qualities when considering all players together. When participants were divided into different groups, stronger correlations between resisted and unresisted sprints were found among slower/heavier players (forwards). Notably, for faster players (backs), there was no significant correlation between heavy resisted sprints and maximum velocity (r = .25; P = .4). Last, despite their lower rel1RM values compared with backs, for forwards the rel1RM is closely associated with unresisted and resisted sprints. Conclusion: Unlike youth forwards, for youth backs, the ability to sprint faster with heavy sled loads is not associated with the maximum velocity achieved in linear sprints, and higher values of rel1RM do not necessarily lead to improved sprint performance.
Increasing Reported Physical Activity Among Australian Adults: Progress Toward a Healthy Older Age
Authors: Halim Nicole , Owen Katherine B. , Smith Ben J. , Thomas Margaret , Tiedemann Anne , Sherrington Catherine , Bauman Adrian E.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: A globally aging population necessitates public health action that supports healthy aging. Although it is well established that participation in physical activity (PA), sport, and active recreation are important for healthy aging, PA levels remain generally lower among older adults. This study examines trends in physical activities that older adults engage in and identifies disparities in activities across subgroups as defined by age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Methods: Data from two New South Wales survey data sets (New South Wales Population Health Survey and AusPlay) investigated patterns and trends of PA, sport, and active recreation between 2016 and 2021 among adults aged 65+ years. Weighted prevalence estimates of meeting PA guidelines (≥150 min/week of moderate to vigorous PA), weekly minutes spent walking and doing moderate to vigorous PA, and annual participation rates in specific activities were calculated as weighted proportions. Multivariable logistic regression models included age, gender, and socioeconomic status as independent variables. Results: Between 2016 and 2021, the proportion of older adults meeting PA guidelines increased (37.8%–51.3%). Adults aged 75+ years, older men, and those living in the least disadvantaged areas experienced greater increases in moderate to vigorous PA. Conclusions: Older adults’ reported PA levels have increased in recent years, highlighting opportunities to prioritize PA promotion in the global agenda to support healthy and active aging. Significance/Implications: This study offers insights into recent trends and noteworthy increases in PA, sport, and active recreation among older Australian adults. These can assist policymakers in developing, evaluating, and implementing population-wide strategies to maintain improved activity levels.
Feasibility and Acceptance of a Remotely Supervised Home-Based Group Mobility Exercise for Older Adults Using a Mobile Robotic Telepresence: A Pilot Study
Authors: Robin Louise , Borel Benoit , Mandigout Stéphane , De Serres-Lafontaine Annabelle , Batcho Charles Sebiyo
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Mobile robotic telepresence could be used to remotely supervise physical activity programs. Our study aims to explore the feasibility, acceptance, and usability of a physical activity program offered synchronously via a mobile robotic telepresence platform. Methods: For this interventional study, five Cutii robots were made available in two residences for older adults in Quebec. Participants received the exercise program, two sessions per week for 4–6 weeks, delivered remotely via the robot. The following feasibility indicators were collected during the study, as recommended by Thabane et al.: process, resources, management, and intervention. Acceptance and usability of the technology were measured using the extended version of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology-based questionnaire and the System Usability Scale, respectively. Results: Eighty percent of participants completed the protocol, and 58% of participants attended 80% of the sessions. Various technical problems (internet connection and technology issues) limited the usability and acceptance of the technology. Conclusion: The results revealed that the program was feasible according to the process, management, and intervention indicators but unsatisfactory in terms of resources. For some participants, minor modifications were needed to improve technology support and facilitate connection to the mobile robotic telepresence. Further studies will need to focus on the evaluation of the effectiveness of this type of intervention. Implications: These results emphasize the importance of continuing research evaluating the opportunities provided by new technologies to enhance older adults’ engagement in physical activity and inform clinicians and policymakers to improve future services in this domain.
“Race,” Racism, and Race Norming in the National Football League Concussion Settlement
Authors: Trimbur Lucia
Published: December 2024

This article analyzes the administration of “race” and race norming in the National Football League (NFL) Concussion Settlement. It examines the use of the race-based algorithm, its consequences, and its unresolved future. I argue that despite the NFL’s pledge of “race neutral” tests, the race-norming scandal remains far from resolved. Modifications to previous protocols and provisions to develop new norms flag the NFL’s obsession with population-based adjustments. While the explicit utilization of “race” might currently be eliminated, other variables may still produce racialized scores and negatively affect compensation levels. I argue that the NFL’s persistent conviction that there is a biological or cultural basis of “race” propels them to compulsively pursue norming methods. However, until the concept of “race” is thoroughly abandoned and the faith in racial difference whether based in biology/genetics and/or cultural/social circumstances rejected outright, the settlement will continue to be plagued by unjust results.
Geochemical transition from Miocene–Pliocene to Quaternary arc volcanism in the northern Sierra Nevada, California
Authors: Stoffers Albert J. , Clarke Christopher A.L. , Cousens Brian L. , Henry Christopher D. , Timmermans Ann C.
Published: December 2024

Miocene–Pliocene volcanism around Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada, USA, part of the Southern Ancestral Cascades arc, ceased at around 3 Ma as the southern edge of the subducting Juan de Fuca plate migrated north of the region. Post–3 Ma, arc volcanism continued north of Lake Tahoe, but modern subduction and arc volcanism now occur only north of the Lassen volcanic center. Miocene–Pliocene Tahoe arc lavas appear to include an older mantle source component that is not common in Quaternary Lassen arc rocks. The goal of this work was to investigate how magma sources and/or volcanic processes transitioned in the northern Sierra Nevada between Lake Tahoe and Lassen. The Sierra Nevada between Lake Tahoe and Lassen, or the North Sierra segment of the Ancestral Cascades, includes eroded remnants of Ancestral Cascades volcanic rocks, including lava flow complexes, intrusions, and landslide/debris-flow deposits. Lava samples from the North Sierra segment include calc-alkaline basalts to dacites, with rare rhyolites. All North Sierra segment lavas exhibit normalized incompatible-element patterns with negative Nb, Ta, and Ti anomalies and positive Pb, Sr, and Ba anomalies. The North Sierra segment is geochemically split into two parts: a northern group including lavas from the Susanville area, and a southern group consisting of arc rocks from the Portola, Sierraville, Henness Pass, and Sagehen areas. With the exception of the Sagehen area, the North Sierra segment shows little variation in radiogenic isotope ratios with SiO2, indicating that assimilation of crustal rocks was outweighed by liquid-crystal crystallization during magma evolution. Trace-element and isotopic ratios in mafic rocks of the northern group are more typical of Lassen area Quaternary volcanic rocks, whereas those of southern group mafic rocks are more typical of Miocene–Pliocene arc lavas of the Lake Tahoe area. The isotopic distinction between Lassen-like and Tahoe-like arc lavas is likely controlled by basement age and lithology, where Lassen-like magmas were derived largely by mantle wedge melting and Tahoe-like magmas were primarily partial melts of metasomatized Sierran lithospheric mantle. The Susanville area represents the “transition zone” between these two geochemically distinct primary magma sources.
Optimising fatigue, abdominal pain and faecal incontinence in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD-BOOST Optimise): feasibility study of a checklist and algorithm for initial nurse-led management
Authors: Stagg Imogen , Hart Ailsa , Cléirigh Büttner Fionn , Fikree Asma , McLaughlin John , LeBlanc Jean-Frederic , Bouri Sonia , Hamborg Thomas , Miller Laura , Norton Christine
Published: December 2024

Objective

Many people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) experience fatigue, pain and faecal incontinence that some feel are inadequately addressed. It is unknown how many have potentially reversible medical issues underlying these symptoms.

Methods

We conducted a study testing the feasibility of a patient-reported symptom checklist and nurse-administered management algorithm (‘Optimise’) to manage common medical causes of IBD-related fatigue, pain and faecal incontinence. We conducted qualitative interviews with nurses implementing the algorithm.

Results

515 individuals reporting IBD-related symptoms were invited to participate, of whom 201 (39%) consented. 194/201 (97%) returned the symptom checklist, of whom 157 (81%) returned a postal faecal calprotectin sample. Five (3%) participants reported ‘red flags’ and 31/157 (20%) participants had a faecal calprotectin result ≥200 µg/g, of whom 12 (8%) were judged to have likely active inflammation when clinical symptoms and disease history were reviewed. The algorithm suggested at least one clinical test or intervention for fatigue, pain or faecal incontinence in 67 (43%) participants, of whom 25 (37%) declined. Among 87 participants for whom clinical actions were indicated, 57 (66%) completed follow-up outcomes 3 months after algorithm implementation. Three nurses interviewed found the Optimise algorithm easy to administer.

Conclusion

Implementing the Optimise checklist and algorithm appears feasible in UK clinical practice, with adjustments needed to minimise missing items. Not all patients accepted algorithm-indicated interventions, but a yield of 43% with symptoms having potentially reversible causes detected is clinically useful. Nurses endorsed ease and utility of the implementation process. Optimise now needs clinical effectiveness to be assessed.
Effectiveness of potent topical corticosteroids versus mild ones in primary care for children with moderate flare-ups of atopic dermatitis; results of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: van Halewijn Karlijn F , Elshout Gijs , Bohnen Arthur M , Bindels Patrick J E , Pasmans Suzanne G M A
Published: December 2024

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of a potent topical corticosteroid (TCS) as an initial treatment in primary care for children with moderate flare-ups of atopic dermatitis (AD), compared to starting on a mild TCS.

Design

An observational prospective cohort study with an embedded pragmatic multicentre open-label randomised controlled trial.

Setting

A total of 53 general practices in the southwest of the Netherlands took part in the study.

Participants

209 children aged 3 months to 17 years diagnosed with AD (International Classification of Primary Care codes S87 or S88) who visited their general practitioner (GP) for AD or received repeat prescriptions for AD in the previous 12 months were included in the cohort study through the general practices. Finally, 32 patients (15%) were randomised and assigned to the trial (13 girls; 19 boys; median age 4.0 years).

Interventions

If cohort participants experienced a moderate flare-up (ie, need to intensify topical treatment from the child’s and/or parents’ point of view of AD and a three-item severity score from three to<6 scored by their GP) during cohort follow-up, they were randomised to either the intervention group, a strong TCS (class III, fluticasone propionate 0.05%), or the control group, a mild TCS (class I, hydrocortisone acetate 1%).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

We measured outcomes at baseline and at 1, 4 and 24 weeks. The primary outcome was AD-related symptoms (Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM) score) measured over 24 weeks of follow-up. Secondary outcomes included the Eczema Area and Severity Index, the Investigators Global Assessment, quality of life (QoL), Patient Global Assessment, Numeric Itch Intensity Score and TCS use.

Results

The primary outcome showed a significant difference in the POEM scores over 24 weeks of follow-up between the intervention group (n=17) and the control group (n=15) (3.3 vs 9.4, p=0.023). The potent TCS also significantly improved the POEM at 1 week (5.5 vs 12.0, p=0.042) and 4 weeks (4.3 vs 12.7, p=0.030). Improvement in the QoL was significant at 4 weeks (1.0 vs 4.5, p=0.014) and 24 weeks (0.0 vs 2.0, p=<0.000).

Conclusion

Despite the small sample size, the data suggests a clinical benefit from starting with a potent TCS rather than a mild TCS when a flare-up of AD is moderate.

Trial registration

The Netherlands National Trial Register: NTR6679.
Impact of mindfulness-based tri-modal prehabilitation on functional recovery and selected surgical outcomes of patients with colorectal cancer admitted to surgical hospital wards: the first international randomised control trial for mindfulness-based tri-modal prehabilitation
Authors: Gamage Bawantha , Gamage Manori Nayanakantha , Perera Nilushika Madushani , Kodikara Chadani Samararatna , Wijeratne Jayamina Udhara Munasinghe , Seneviratne Alles S M D P , Kumaran Thavendra , Jeewandara J M Chandima , Mahawithanage Sanath Thushara Chamakara
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common and second most deadly cancer worldwide, with significant morbidity and mortality risks. Despite advancements in surgical care, postoperative complications and recovery challenges persist. The severity of these issues is linked to preoperative functional capacity and emotional distress. Mindfulness, known for enhancing emotional well-being, is being considered as a promising intervention in cancer care. This study investigates the effectiveness of mindfulness-based tri-modal prehabilitation in improving functional recovery and surgical outcomes for patients with CRC.

Methods and analysis

The sample size of this prospective, randomised controlled trial was calculated based on the primary outcome, which is the detection of the clinically significant difference in a 6 min walk test (6MWT). With our population variables, the size of the sample was estimated for an α level of 0·05 (two-sided) and 80% power to detect a clinically meaningful difference between groups at postsurgical follow-up of 32 m, with an estimated variability of 64 m based on previous studies. The final sample size is 72 patients, in both arms. Both groups will receive a 4-week standard tri-modal prehabilitation. The intervention group will receive a mindfulness practice module. Outcomes will be measured at four different time intervals for each patient. Secondary outcome measures cover nutritional status, psychological status and selected biomarker status. Patient recruitment to the study started in April 2022.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the Ethics Review Committee of the Faculty of the Medical Sciences University of Sri Jayewardenepura (Registration No: FMC/ USJP ERC 29/19) and the Ethics Review Committee of Colombo South Teaching Hospital (Reference number 915). The research results will be published in peer-reviewed publications and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

SLCTR/2020/022.
Scope of work and contributions of female community health volunteers in Nepal’s healthcare sector: a qualitative study
Authors: Joshi Anjali , Marasini Sabina , Sharma Sudim , Paneru Bandana , Kunwar Surakshya , Shrestha Archana , Shrestha Akina , Karmacharya Biraj Man
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To determine the perception of female community health volunteers (FCHVs) in terms of their scope of work, impact of work on their professional experiences and their coping strategies and stakeholders’ perception of FCHVs programme, their contribution to the health sector and its sustainability.

Design

A qualitative study involving in-depth interviews (IDIs) with FCHVs and key informant interviews (KIIs) with local stakeholders. All the interviews were conducted through telephone.

Setting

Six municipalities in Kavre district, Nepal.

Participants

16 FCHVs participated in IDIs and 12 local stakeholders involving members of mother’s group, health workers and local ward representatives of the selected municipalities were involved in KIIs from May to August 2021.

Results

The FCHVs perceived a sense of workload because of their wide scope of work. The major challenges faced by FCHVs were limited allowances and incentives for their contribution, negative and judgemental attitudes, geographical challenges, multitasking, inadequate supply of health commodities and limited infrastructures for service delivery. Both the FCHVs and the stakeholders perceived the FCHV programme as one of the most effective programmes supporting the health system. However, they seem concerned about the sustainability of FCHVs programme. In addition, they indicated that the FCHVs could possibly alleviate the shortage of health workforce by providing preventive and promotive healthcare services at the grassroot level.

Conclusion

Our study showed a need for systematic and integrated health programme delivery packages thereby reducing additional workload and burden among FCHVs.