bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Criminalizing Homelessness: Circumstances Surrounding Criminal Trespassing and People Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Diamond Brie , Burns Ronald , Bowen Kendra
Published: December 2021

Criminal trespassing (CT) is an understudied misdemeanor offense often enforced to maintain control over contested spaces and, in practice, often disproportionately used against disenfranchised populations such as the homeless and mentally ill. This study uses the CT case files of a county criminal district attorney’s office to investigate how cases involving defendants experiencing homelessness are handled compared with other defendants. Results show that homeless defendants make up a substantial portion of all CT cases, are more likely to be repeat CT defendants, and account for most jail sentences. Whereas defendants with mental health issues were often deferred for services, this avenue was not similarly extended to homeless defendants. Qualitative analyses show varied circumstances related to CT arrest for homeless and non-homeless defendants. The findings suggest various policy implications to refocus police resources and promote interagency cooperation to address the underlying causes of CT involvement by people experiencing homelessness.
The “Best of 2021 List” of Health Promotion Researchers
Authors: Terry Paul E.
Published: December 2021

Each year the editorial team of the American Journal of Health Promotion selects our “Best of the Year List” of health promotion studies from the prior year. This editorial features the Editor’s Picks Awards, the Editor in Chief Awards, the Michael P. O’Donnell Award and the Dorothy Nyswander Award for the research and writing published in 2021 in this journal. Our criteria for selection includes: whether the study addresses a topic of timely importance in health promotion, the research question is clearly stated and the methodologies used are well executed; whether the paper is often cited and downloaded; if the study findings offer a unique contribution to the literature; and if the paper is well-written and enjoyable to read. Awardees in 2021 offered new insights into addressing discrimination against race or sexual identity, preferred sources of information about COVID-19 and the impact of community and workplace interventions on healthy lifestyles. This year’s award winning research spans from character to culture relative to improving well-being.
The Long-Term Impact of Childhood Disability on Mental Health Trajectories in Mid- to Late-Life
Authors: West Jessica S. , Kamis Christina
Published: December 2021

Objectives

We draw from the life course and stress process frameworks to examine how experiencing disability in early life influences mental health in adulthood.

Methods

Data come from the Health and Retirement Study Cross-Wave Childhood Health and Family Aggregated Data file (2008-2018, n = 15,289). Childhood disability status is a retrospective self-report of whether respondents were disabled for six months or more because of a health problem before the age of 16 ( n = 581). We used age-based growth curve models to construct trajectories of depressive symptoms by childhood disability status.

Results

Respondents who experienced childhood disability exhibit more depressive symptoms at age 50 compared to those who did not experience this stressor. However, there is no difference in the growth of depressive symptoms with age between these groups, suggesting maintained inequality over the late adulthood life course.

Discussion

Findings suggest that childhood disability has long-term implications for life course mental health.
Managers do it their way: How managers act in a decentralised healthcare services provider organisation – a mixed methods study
Authors: Ohrling Mikael , Tolf Sara , Solberg-Carlsson Karin , Brommels Mats
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Decentralisation is considered a way to get managers more committed and more prone to respond to local needs. This study analyses how managers perceive a decentralised management model within a large public healthcare delivery organisation in Sweden. Design/methodology/approach: A programme theory evaluation was performed applying direct content analysis to in-depth interviews with healthcare managers. Balance score card data were used in a blinded comparative content analysis to explore relations between performance and how the delegated authority was perceived and used by the managers. Findings: Managers’ perceptions of the decentralised management model supported its intentions to enable the front-line to make decisions to better meet customer needs and flexibly adapt to local conditions. The managers appreciated and used their delegated authority. Central policies and control on human resources and investments were accepted as those are to the benefit of the whole organisation. Leadership development and organisation-wide improvement programmes were of support. Units showing high organisational performance had proactive managers, although differences in manager perceptions across units were small. Originality: This, one of the first of its kind, study of a decentralisation in service delivery organisation shows a congruence between the rationale of a management model, the managers’ perceptions of the authority and accountability as well as management practises. These observations stemming from a large public primary and community healthcare organisation has not, to our knowledge, been reported and provide research-informed guidance on decentralisation as one strategy for resolving challenges in healthcare service delivery organisations.
Research on stator current characteristics of centrifugal pumps under different mechanical seal failures
Authors: Zou Jiamin , Luo Yin , Han Yuejiang , Fan Yakun
Published: December 2021

Mechanical seal failure has a great negative impact on the operation of a centrifugal pump system. A method to analyze the stator current characteristics of the motor in a centrifugal pump system is proposed to monitor the internal flow of the centrifugal pump and to identify the failure status of the mechanical seal. Experiments were conducted under different mechanical seal states. Based on sensorless technology, the stator current signal of the motor is collected, processed by windowing function, anti-aliasing filter, singular value decomposition, Hilbert–Huang transform, and the marginal spectrum of correlation quantity is drawn. The results show that according to the external characteristic curve of the centrifugal pump, after the failure of the mechanical seal, the head and efficiency of the centrifugal pump decrease, and the head is greatly affected by the degree of failure, while the degree of mechanical seal failure has little effect on the shaft power of the centrifugal pump; the centrifugal pump has good operation stability under design conditions or near slightly large flow; the stability of centrifugal pump operation decreases with the aggravation of mechanical seal failure; the corresponding maximum amplitude in the marginal spectrum can be used as an index to diagnose the damage degree of the mechanical seal.
Stochastic aerodynamic analysis for compressor blades with manufacturing variability based on a mathematical dimensionality reduction method
Authors: Guo Zhengtao , Chu Wuli
Published: December 2021

It is essential for engineering manufacture and robust design to evaluate the impact of manufacturing variability on the aerodynamics of compressor blades efficiently and accurately. In the paper, a novel quadratic curve approximation method based on the scanning points of blade design profiles was introduced and combined with Karhunen–Loève expansion, a mathematical dimensionality reduction method for modeling manufacturing variability as truncated Normal process was proposed. Subsequently, Sparse Approximation of Moment-based Arbitrary Polynomial Chaos (SAMBA PC) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were applied to build a computational framework for stochastic aerodynamic analysis considering manufacturing variability. Finally, the framework was adopted to evaluate the aerodynamic variations of a high subsonic compressor cascade under the design incidence. The results illustrate that the SAMBA PC method is more efficient than the traditional methods such as Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) for stochastic aerodynamic analysis. Through uncertainty quantification, the impact of manufacturing variability on the global aerodynamic performance is primarily reflected in the fluctuation of aerodynamic losses, and the fluctuation of the total losses is mainly contributed by the fluctuation of the separation loss after the suction peak (a negative pressure spike near the leading edge (LE)) and the boundary-layer loss on the suction surface (SS). With sensitivity analysis, the most important geometric modes to aerodynamics can be revealed, which provides a useful reference for manufacturing inspection process and helps reduce computational cost in robust design.
Experimental analysis on mechanical properties of BF/PLA composites and its lightweight design on power battery box
Authors: Zhao Ying , Zheng Siqi , Yan Minghan , Liu Xuanming , Wang Binlin , Shi Jinyu , Yin Jusan , Ma Fangwu
Published: December 2021

In response to the concept of energy conservation and environmental protection, a novel composite battery box with BF/PLA composite is proposed. Firstly, the mechanical properties of BF/PLA composite are tested, and it is concluded that the property parameters of BF/PLA composite with 50% BF mass fraction is selected as the material property parameter of subsequent finite element simulation. Subsequently, the statics analysis and constraint modal analysis of the traditional metal battery box are carried out under the typical working conditions of rapid turning and braking under vertical bumping. Based on this, the upper and lower box materials of the battery box except the bracket are replaced by BF/PLA composite. The morphology optimization, topology optimization and free size optimization are carried out with the constraint that the first-order modal vibration frequency is no less than 30 Hz. Compared with the traditional metal battery box, the stiffness and strength of the optimized BF/PLA composite battery box are significantly enhanced. Moreover, the first-order constraint modal frequency increases by 15.5%, and the comprehensive weight reduction ratio reaches 40.88%. Finally, the optimized BF/PLA composite battery box is verified under random vibration, mechanical shock analysis, collision analysis, extrusion and falling ball analysis and drop analysis conditions. Meanwhile, compared with the traditional metal battery box under the same working conditions, the excellent reliability of the composite battery box is highlighted. The proposed BF/PLA composite battery box satisfies the requirements of stiffness and strength performances under various working conditions, which provides theoretical and data support for the application of composite materials in battery box and other automotive components.
Torque allocation strategy for four in-wheel-motor drive electric vehicle based on layered control
Authors: Chen Wuwei , Zhao Linfeng , Hu Jinfang , Tan Dongkui , Sun Xiaowen
Published: December 2021

The differential torque of four in-wheel-motor drive electric automotive will affect vehicle stability, and applications of the differential driven assisting steering (DDAS) will be limited consequentially. To solve this problem, stability analysis and control system design is essential, therefore a DDAS stability control system is designed based on the layered control of yaw moment. Correlation functions are used to reflect the shifts of vehicle characteristic state between stable and unstable states, and help to determine the control weight of each subsystem in the lower-layer controller. In the lower-layer controller, the strategy of direct steering-wheel torque control is used to build a DDAS controller. Under different vehicle moving states, differential driving torque and yaw moment vary with the change of the control weights; and according to the theory of quadratic programming, optimal allocation of four-wheel driving torques will be made according to the total driving torque. The effectiveness of the proposed control system is verified by numerical simulation and hardware-in-the-loop experiment. The results show that the proposed control method can improve vehicle stability and ensure driving safety.
Factors associated with offering HIV testing to people aged ≥ 50 years: A qualitative study
Authors: Youssef Elaney , Wright Juliet , A Davies Kevin , Delpech Valerie , Brown Alison , Cooper Vanessa , Sachikonye Memory , de Visser Richard
Published: December 2021

Background

Individuals aged ≥ 50 years continue to be disproportionately affected by late HIV diagnosis, which is associated with poorer health outcomes and onward transmission. Despite HIV testing guidelines and high acceptability of HIV testing among all patients, clinicians are less likely to offer a test to an older individual. The aim of this study was to identify clinician-related factors associated with offering HIV testing to patients aged ≥ 50 years.

Methods

Twenty clinicians who had been involved in the care of an older patient diagnosed late with HIV were interviewed.

Results

Thematic analysis identified seven factors associated with offering HIV testing to older people: knowledge, stigma, stereotyping and perception of risk, symptom attribution, discussing HIV with patients, consent procedures and practical issues.

Conclusions

Although some factors are not unique to older patients, some are unique to this group. Many clinicians lack up-to-date HIV-related knowledge, feel anxious discussing HIV with older patients and perceive asexuality in older age. In order to increase the offer of HIV testing to this group, we identified clinician-related barriers to test offer that need to be addressed.
Flow instability in a volute-free centrifugal fan subjected to non-axisymmetric pre-swirl flow from upstream bended inflow tube
Authors: Liu Zhengfeng , Yang Hui , He Haijiang , Yu Peiquan , Wei Yikun , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2021

The characteristics of internal flow and performance of a centrifugal fan is greatly dependent on the inflow pattern. As the fan is subjected to incoming flow from an upstream tube, the size and geometry of the tube affect the three-dimensional motion of local flow and possibly degrades the aerodynamic performance of the fan. In this work, we performed a numerical investigation on the internal flow in a centrifugal fan subjected to incoming flow from an upstream bended inflow tube of various radii using the steady and unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS and URANS) simulation approaches. The effects of the non-axisymmetric pre-swirl flow generated due to the curvature of the bended inflow tube are demonstrated by analyzing the internal flow characteristics of the fan, including the spatial distributions and temporal variations of pressure field and streamlines, pressure fluctuations in the upstream tube, the inflow and outflow sections of the impeller, and the circumferential distributions of velocity and pressure in the impeller. The numerical results reveal that as the inflow tube is curved with larger curvature (smaller radius of the bended section), the pre-swirl inflow is strong and deteriorates the static pressure rise and static pressure efficiency of the centrifugal fan more remarkably, and the circumferential non-uniformity of pressure and velocity distributions appears inside of the channels of the fan. As the radius of the bended section increases, the instability of the internal flow gets more pronounced, as represented by the stronger pressure fluctuations at the inflow and outflow sections. The prediction capabilities of RANS and URANS approaches are also analyzed based on the numerical data and we found that the latter is more reliable in predicting the performance of the fan.
Thermal performance assessment of a cylindrical box solar cooker fitted with decahedron outer reflector
Authors: Anilkumar B C , Maniyeri Ranjith , Anish S
Published: December 2021

One of the important issues humankind globally faces in recent years is the scarcity of non-renewable energy resources. Solar energy is considered safe and renewable, which can fulfil the demand and supply chain requirements. Solar box cookers (SBCs) are popular in domestic cooking due to their ease of use and handling. The prime objective of the present work is to develop and test the performance of a cylindrical SBC fitted with decahedron-shaped reflector (CSBC-FDR). The CSBC is designed using minimum entropy generation (MEG) method. Through experiments, we observed that absorber plate attains peak temperature of about 138°C–150°C with the aid of decahedron reflector. The first figure of merit (F1) is found to be 0.13, indicating better optical efficiency and low heat loss coefficient for the SBC. The second figure of merit (F2) is obtained as 0.39, which indicates good heat exchange efficiency (F') and less heat capacity for cooker's interior. The average energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and standardized cooking power values are 21.93%, 3.04%, and 25.28W, respectively. These results show that the present CSBC-FDR is able to cook food in a shorter period with better efficiency. The experimental and numerical values of overall heat loss coefficient of the developed SBC are in close agreement. The experimentally assessed performance parameters reveal superior performance of the present cylindrical SBC in comparison with many conventional rectangular and trapezoidal box solar cookers.
Intelligent train control for cooperative train formation: A deep reinforcement learning approach
Authors: Zhang Danyang , Zhao Junhui , Zhang Yang , Zhang Qingmiao
Published: December 2021

Considering the intelligent train control problem in long-term evolution for metro system, a new train-to-train communication-based train control system is proposed, where the cooperative train formation technology is introduced for realizing a more flexible train operation mode. To break the limitation of centralized train control, a pre-exploration-based two-stage deep Q-learning algorithm is adopted in the cooperative train formation, which is one of the first intelligent approaches for urban railway formation control. In addition, a comfort-considered algorithm is given, where optimization measures are taken for providing superior passenger experience. The simulation results illustrate that the optimized algorithm has a smoother jerk curve during the train control process, and the passenger comfort can be improved. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm can effectively accomplish the train control task in the multi-train tracking scenarios, and meet the control requirements of the cooperative formation system.
Just one Damned Thing After Another: Towards an Event-based Perspective of Entrepreneurship
Authors: Rauch Andreas , Hulsink Willem
Published: December 2021

Although events such as the global financial crisis, natural disasters, or the COVID-19 pandemic have large impacts on entrepreneurship, the literature lacks a differentiated analysis of such events. This editorial highlights the importance of events which are discrete and bounded in space and time, unexpected, and strong enough to produce change that can lead to subsequent events. An event based approach is well suited to integrate context and time to predict entrepreneurial activity. We provide a more systematic description of events, their characteristics, and causal mechanisms to allow more holistic and generalizable analysis of the role of events in entrepreneurship.
The Bangladeshi Rights and Protection of Persons With Disability Act of 2013: A Policy Analysis
Authors: Nuri Reshma P. , Aldersey Heather M. , Ghahari Setareh , Huque Ahmed S. , Shabnam Jahan
Published: December 2021

The government of Bangladesh enacted the Rights and Protection of Persons with Disability Act of 2013 (the Act) in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This article sheds light on the Act with particular emphasis on (a) support offered to children with disabilities (CWDs) and their families to address their needs; and (b) the extent to which the Act is in line with the international disability policy analysis framework. We compared the Act with the 18 core concepts of disability policy developed by Turnbull et al. (2001). The results affirm the government’s effort toward Sustainable Development Goals in providing support to CWDs and their families. They indicate a high degree of congruency of the Act with the core concepts. The findings also highlight the need to embrace the concepts of autonomy, confidentiality, and family-centeredness in great detail in any policy initiatives pertaining to CWDs. Furthermore, the finding shows that collaboration and coordination among ministries are imperative to achieve the goal of policies related to disability. In addition, the results highlight the need for more budgetary allocation and robust monitoring systems to track the progress of policy initiatives. As policy implementation is affected by changes in global contexts such as the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, policymakers in Bangladesh and other low- and middle-income countries should ensure that emergency responses are disability-inclusive and appropriate for CWDs. To ensure a disability-inclusive response, it is critical to engage individuals with disabilities and their families in meaningful consultations to identify their needs.
Leadership as an Implementation Driver: Identifying Best Practices to Support Organizational Change
Authors: Lancet Stephanie , McKittrick Lanya , Morando Rhim Lauren
Published: December 2021

This article explores implementation science with a focus on the strategies leaders use to address organizational challenges. Using part of a larger study, we employed a qualitative multiple case study design of 20 charter schools to contribute to an evidence base about how leadership at the charter school and charter management organization levels can influence their school communities regarding commitment to students with disabilities. From our exploratory research, key themes emerged that align with effective leadership strategies for implementation, demonstrating the positive influence of leaders who prioritize students with disabilities by maintaining a clear vision and strong sense of purpose, creating a safe environment where diversity of perspectives is encouraged, and making sure all voices are heard and valued. Public schools across the nation can leverage lessons learned from the charter sector, as leaders work to ensure that their school practices and policies support success for students with disabilities. By ensuring that school leaders are trained and supported to use effective leadership strategies, policymakers, and schools of higher education can influence the adoption and advancement of innovative and effective practices.
Pepaxto: A New Peptide-Drug Conjugate for Heavily Pretreated Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Jessee Jeremiah K.
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The objective of this article was to review existing data of melflufen (Pepaxto) as an additional treatment option for heavily pretreated relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma.

Data sources:

A PubMed search was completed using the search terms melphalan flufenamide; melflufen; melflufen AND relapsed refractory multiple myeloma; melphalan flufenamide and relapsed refractory multiple myeloma between January 1, 2013, and October 18, 2021. Additional information was obtained from the National Institutes of Health Clinical Trial Registry, Federal Drug Administration (FDA) web updates, and Pepaxto prescribing information.

Study selection/data extraction:

Clinical trials including melflufen in relapsed refractory multiple myeloma and trials related to safety and clinical pharmacology were included.

Data synthesis:

The findings of this review show melflufen in combination with dexamethasone can be used as a treatment option for patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who have previously received greater than 4 previous lines of therapy, and documented resistance to a proteosome inhibitor, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, and an immunomodulator.

Relevance to patient care and clinical practice:

Melflufen in combination with dexamethasone is a reasonable option for patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least 4 previous lines of therapy and considered ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant. Further clinical utilization in earlier lines of therapy is under review, pending the in-depth safety analysis by the FDA.

Conclusions:

The FDA approval of melflufen in combination with dexamethasone provides an additional therapy option for patients with heavily pretreated relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma.
Development of MDS-Based Predication Model for COPD Severity in Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Blaylock Barbara , Niu Xiaoli , Davidson H. Edward , Gravenstein Stefan , DePue Ronald , Williams G. Rhys , Steinberg Karl E.
Published: December 2021

Background

Assessing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) severity is challenging in nursing home (NH) residents due to incomplete symptom assessments and exacerbation history.

Objective

The objective of this study was to predict COPD severity in NH residents using the Minimum Data Set (MDS), a clinical assessment of functional capabilities and health needs.

Methods

A cohort analysis of prospectively collected longitudinal data was conducted. Residents from geographically varied Medicare-certified NHs with age ≥60 years, COPD diagnosis, and ≥6 months NH residence at enrollment were included. Residents with severe cognitive impairment were excluded. Demographic characteristics, medical history, and MDS variables were extracted from medical records. The care provider–completed COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and COPD exacerbation history were used to categorize residents by Global Initiative for Chronic Lung Disease (GOLD) A to D groups. Multivariate multinomial logit models mapped the MDS to GOLD A to D groups with stepwise selection of variables.

Results

Nursing home residents (N = 175) were 64% women and had a mean age of 77.9 years. Among residents, GOLD B was most common (A = 13.1%; B = 44.0%; C = 5.7%; D = 37.1%). Any long-acting bronchodilator (LABD) use and any dyspnea were significant predictors of GOLD A to D groups. The predicted MDS-GOLD group (A = 6.9%; B = 52.6%; C = 4.6%; D = 36.0%) showed good model fit (correctly predicted = 60.6%). Nursing home residents may underuse group-recommended LABD treatment (no LABD: B = 53.2%; C = 80.0%; D = 40.0%).

Conclusion and Relevance

The MDS, completed routinely for US NH residents, could potentially be used to estimate COPD severity. Predicted COPD severity with additional validation could provide a map to evidence-based treatment guidelines and may help to individualize treatment pathways for NH residents.
Fibula Nail Outcomes in Soft Tissue Compromised Ankle Fractures
Authors: Ahmed Maryam , Barrie Andrew , Kozhikunnath Arun , Thimmegowda Abilash , Ho Sebastian , Kunasingam Kumar , Guryel Enis , Ahluwalia Raju , Ladha Nafisah , Horseman Laura , Fell Adam , Perera Edward , Bhadresha Ashwin , Qamar Mubasher , Bowyer Henry , Basma Zeinab , West Alexander , Bradbury Jack , Gajula Parthasaradhi , Mahmood Ansar , Ochogwu Joanna , Mcdonald Stephen , Bishop Kilanalei , Fung Amy
Published: December 2021

Background:

To determine the clinical outcomes following fibula nail fixation and to identify the indication for the use of fibula nails in lower limb fractures.

Methods:

Retrospective study of adult patients from 2 major trauma centers (MTCs) and 9 trauma units (TUs) who underwent fibula nail fixation for AO/OTA 44 fractures between January 1, 2018, and October 31, 2020. Outcome measures included infection, metalwork complications, nonunion or malunion, time to union, and length of inpatient hospital stay.

Results:

Ninety-five patients were included, with a mean age of 66 years; 57.9% of patients were female. The average body mass index was 30. Sixty-nine patients (72.6%) sustained a Weber B and 24 (27.4%) sustained a Weber C fracture. In addition, 26.3% were open fractures and all patients had soft tissue compromise affecting the lateral malleolus. The calculated infection rate for fibula nail was 4.2% and metalwork complication rate was 5.2%. The nonunion and malunion rate was 8.4% and rate of removal of hardware was 2.1%. The average time to union was 12.5 weeks, and length of inpatient stay was 9.4 days (SD 10).

Conclusion:

This multicenter study demonstrates that use of a fibula nail appears to be a safe approach to treating patients who have a physiologically higher risk of surgery, poor skin condition, and a complex fracture pattern.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, case-control study.
Loneliness in Gender-Diverse and Sexual Orientation–Diverse Adolescents: Measurement Invariance Analyses and Between-Group Comparisons
Authors: McDanal Riley , Schleider Jessica L. , Fox Kathryn R. , Eaton Nicholas R.
Published: December 2021

Youth loneliness is a risk factor for myriad adverse psychosocial outcomes, making it a potentially informative construct for assessment and treatment research. Minority stressors may place LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) youths at high risk of loneliness. However, the prevalence of loneliness across gender and sexual identities cannot be precisely estimated or compared without establishing that common measures assess the construct equivalently across groups. In a preregistered study, we determined the optimal structure of the UCLA Loneliness Scale and investigated whether it showed invariance across gender and sexual identities in a national U.S. sample of adolescents with elevated depressive symptoms ( N = 2,431; https://osf.io/52ctd ). Results supported strict invariance, indicating that loneliness scores can be meaningfully compared across groups in this sample. Exploratory analyses indicated that loneliness levels and LGBTQ+ identity predicted levels of depression and anxiety. We discuss implications for research on loneliness, health disparities, and psychopathology in high-symptom youths.
Effect of different extrusion methods on physicochemical properties and qualities of noodles based on rice flour
Authors: Seetapan Nispa , Leelawat Bootsrapa , Limparyoon Nattawut , Yooberg Rattana
Published: December 2021

Rice noodles have been manufactured in the food industry using different extrusion methods, such as traditional and modern extrusions, which affect the noodle structure and qualities. Therefore, the effects of the extrusion process on qualities of rice noodles using the same blend of rice flour and crosslinked starch were evaluated. In this study, a capillary rheometer was used as an alternative approach to simulate the traditional extrusion method in which the noodles are obtained by continuously pressing the pregelatinized noodle dough through a die. For modern extrusion, a twin-screw extruder was employed to obtain the noodles in a one-step process. The optimal range of moisture content used in the formulation was studied. Upon cooking, the noodles showed a decrease in cooking time and cooking loss with increasing moisture content in the formulation. All cooked noodles showed comparable tensile strength, but those extruded by a twin-screw extruder had substantially greater elongation. Scanning electron micrographs revealed that the noodles prepared using the extruder had a denser starch matrix, while those obtained from a capillary rheometer showed the aggregation of starch fragments relevant to the existence of starch gelatinization endotherm from differential scanning calorimetry. This indicated that the extrusion process using the twin-screw extruder provided a more uniform starch transformation, i.e., more starch granule disruption and gelatinization, thus giving the noodles a more coherent structure and better extensibility after cooking. The obtained results suggested that different thermomechanical processes used in the noodle industry gave the extruded rice noodles different qualities respective to their different microstructures.
Depressive Symptoms Account for Loss of Positive Attention Bias in ADHD Patients: An Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Schuthof Cassandra C. , Tendolkar Indira , Bergman Maria Annemiek , Klok Margit , Collard Rose M. , van Eijndhoven Philip F.P. , Schene Aart H. , Vrijsen Janna N.
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

Depression and ADHD often co-occur and are both characterized by altered attentional processing. Differences and overlap in the profile of attention to emotional information may help explain the co-occurence. We examined negative attention bias in ADHD as neurocognitive marker for comorbid depression.

Methods:

Patients with depression ( n = 63), ADHD ( n = 43), ADHD and depression ( n = 25), and non-psychiatric controls ( n = 68) were compared on attention allocation toward emotional faces. The following eye-tracking indices were used: gaze duration, number of revisits, and location and duration of first fixation.

Results:

Controls revisited the happy faces more than the other facial expressions. Both the depression and the comorbid group showed significantly less revisits of the happy faces compared to the ADHD and the control group. Interestingly, after controlling for depressive symptoms, the groups no longer differed on the number of revisits.

Conclusion:

ADHD patients show a relative positive attention bias, while negative attention bias in ADHD likely indicates (sub)clinical comorbid depression.
The Influence of Religiosity and Spirituality on the Happiness, Optimism, and Pessimism of Brazilian Medical Students
Authors: Vitorino Luciano Magalhães , Cazerta Mariana Fernandes , Corrêa Natália Roriz , Foresto Emanuelle dos Passos , Oliveira Marcia Ap. F. de , Lucchetti Giancarlo
Published: December 2021

Background

Mental health problems are very common among medical students, becoming a concern for health care professionals and educators. Despite the fact that there is a growing body of literature supporting the role of religiosity and spirituality (RS) on mental health and on positive psychology outcomes, little evidence is available among medical students, a population subjected to important distress.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the role of RS on the levels of optimism, pessimism, and happiness among Brazilian medical students.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study including medical students from the first to the eighth semester of a private medical school. The instruments used were: TOT-R for optimism and pessimism, Lyubomirsk and Lepper subjective happiness scale, and sociodemographic profile. The independent variables were Brazilian Portuguese Duke University Religiosity Scale for religiosity, Brief Spiritual Religious Coping (SRC) for negative and positive SRC; and Facit-Sp for spiritual well-being.

Results

A total of 353 medical students were included (response rate 97.51%). Higher levels of intrinsic religiosity and peace were associated with greater happiness and optimism. However, negative SRC was associated with lower levels of happiness and optimism and higher levels of pessimism.

Conclusion

Medical students tend to use their RS as a resource for dealing with the challenges of medical school, influencing their happiness and optimism. In this context, it seems that religiousness acts in two different ways, not only have positive but also negative outcomes among the participants.
Process Evaluation of Two Interventions to Improve Health Environments in Family Child Care Homes
Authors: Williams Bethany D. , Sisson Susan B. , Bhattacharya Sukanya , Merchant Cady , Slawinski Megan , Hildebrand Deana , Stoner Julie A. , Fortin-Miller Sara , Patel Sarah M. , Salvatore Alicia L.
Published: December 2021

Early care and education (ECE) environments influence children’s lifelong health behaviors, growth, and development. Although the number of interventions to improve health in ECE environments is increasing, few have been designed for and tested in family child care homes (FCCHs). This study reports the process evaluation of two interventions to improve FCCH health environments, both part of Happy Healthy Homes, a matched-attention randomized-controlled intervention trial conducted in Oklahoma FCCHs. Participating child care providers received one of two multicomponent interventions: (a) an intervention focused on enhancing the quality of the nutrition environment, self-efficacy, and practices or (b) an intervention focused on improving providers’ environmental health literacy, self-efficacy, and practices. Guided by “Implementation” constructs of the RE-AIM framework (i.e., reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance), intervention report forms and participant tracking were used to assess intervention dose delivered and interventionist-perceived challenges and successes to implementation. Interviews were conducted to obtain participant feedback after the intervention. Dose delivered was high for both interventions overall and across individual sessions, and provider feedback was positive. Implementation challenges and strengths identified for both interventions may be useful for further enhancing intervention appropriateness and success, particularly for interventions with FCCHs. Process evaluation findings indicate that the two Happy Healthy Home interventions can be conducted with high delivery and are well attended and considered to be valuable to FCCH providers.
Evaluating the Benefits of a SNAP-Ed-Funded Community Garden Intervention Using Ripple Effect Mapping
Authors: Sadeghzadeh Claire , Sheppard Brett , de Groot Juliana , De Marco Molly
Published: December 2021

In North Carolina, rural communities experience high rates of chronic illness due to health inequities exacerbated by the decline of major industries. Community gardens increase access to fresh produce and opportunities for physical activity and may offer additional benefits. These benefits can be difficult to measure as they are often unplanned or unintended. This article describes how we utilized Ripple Effect Mapping (REM), a participatory approach for evaluating complex interventions, to understand the impact of a SNAP-Ed-funded program. We purposively selected six community gardens to participate in 2-hour, facilitated REM sessions. On average, 15 people participated in each session. Participants developed a map of benefits using Appreciative Inquiry, mind mapping, and consensus-building methods. The map organized benefits across three levels: first ripple (individual), second ripple (interpersonal), and third ripple (community). In addition, participants coded benefits using the Community Capitals Framework. After the sessions, the research team extracted identified impacts into a matrix, aligned them with the SNAP-Ed Evaluation Framework, and developed digitized maps. These data corroborated findings from previous evaluations and offered insight into community-identified benefits not previously documented, including other types of capital generated by community gardens in rural communities. In addition, REM was an effective approach to measure and report several SNAP-Ed evaluation indicators, including LT11: Unexpected Benefits. Ultimately, the research team found REM to be an effective community-engaged method for understanding a complex intervention’s benefits while centering participant community voices and transferring ownership of the data to community partners, a key principle in equitable evaluation.
Health Behaviors During the COVID-19 Epidemic: Perspectives From Studying International Coping and Compliance
Authors: King Elizabeth J. , Rozek Laura , Lin Ann Chih , Hicken Allen , Jones Pauline , Aleksandrova Ekaterina , Meylakhs Peter , Nambunmee Kowit , Tardif Twila
Published: December 2021

Control of the COVID-19 pandemic requires significant changes in people’s health behaviors. We offer this multidisciplinary perspective on the extent of compliance with social distancing recommendations and on coping with these measures around the globe in the first months of the pandemic. We present descriptive data from our survey of 17,650 respondents across 18 countries and territories in June 2020. The majority of respondents worried about contracting the virus. Nearly all engaged in at least some preventive behaviors, particularly handwashing, mask wearing, and avoiding social events. Most reported that it would be difficult to continue these behaviors for more than a few months, and about half reported feeling more anxious since the start of the pandemic. Commonly reported coping behaviors included news consumption, watching television, and sleeping. Our cross-national study highlights areas for developing and implementing health behavior interventions in the global fight to stop the spread of COVID-19.
What is a Theme Park? A Synthesis and Research Framework
Authors: Liang Zengxian , Li Xiang (Robert)
Published: December 2021

Theme parks have attracted extensive scholarly attention within and outside the tourism literature. These parks have been studied from various stances, yet a uniform definition and integrated framework remain lacking for theme park research and practice. Based on a comprehensive review and research synthesis, this article defines a theme park as a dedicated space featuring five main characteristics: thematic identity, closed space with controlled access, hybrid consumption, performative labor, and merchandising. This article further considers multidisciplinary lenses in theme park studies, particularly in terms of how these five characteristics can be assessed. A research framework covering four domains (industry, tourists/visitors, environment, and impacts) is accordingly proposed to inspire theoretical advances, identify research gaps, promote relevant research, and facilitate managerial practices. This article encourages scholars to move beyond current empirical confines and shape the interdisciplinary future of theme park tourism research.
Using Network Analytics to Improve Targeted Disruption of Police Misconduct
Authors: Cubitt Timothy I. C.
Published: December 2021

Research into police misconduct traditionally considers the correlates and antecedents of misconduct among individual officers, as a means of disruption or prevention. However, more recently, deviance among police has been considered through network perspectives. This study considered 7755 allegations of misconduct accrued by 1495 officers from the Baltimore Police Department between January 2015 to January 2020. A social network analysis was employed to consider the characteristics and differences of misconduct networks between assignments and to identify key officers within these networks. Findings suggested that the misconduct networks of patrol assignments functioned marginally different to investigations or specialist duties. Discrete communities of misconduct were identified within each assignment, including a small number of officers that were particularly important to supporting these networks. This study holds practical implications for the identification and disruption of misconduct networks among law enforcement agencies.
Effect of Patient-Centered Self-Management Program on Blood Pressure, Renal Function Control, and the Quality of Life of Patients With Hypertensive Nephropathy: A Longitudinal Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Mei-Chen , Wu Shu-Fang Vivienne , Lu Kuo-Cheng , Wang Wen-Hug , Chen Yen-Yen , Tai Chun-Yi
Published: December 2021

This longitudinal study with a randomized controlled trial evaluated the long-term effectiveness of the patient-centered self-management intervention program on the control of blood pressure and renal function, as well as the quality of life of patients with hypertensive nephropathy. The control group ( n = 38) received usual care while the experimental group ( n = 38) participated in a patient-centered self-management program. After the pre-test, the intervention was performed with the experimental group once a week for a total of 4 weeks. Then, the post-test was performed 1, 3, and 6 months later. A questionnaire was used to collect the demographic data and disease characteristics, laboratory data, and quality of life scale. This study tracked three time points (i.e., 1, 3, and 6 months) after the intervention and found that the experimental group achieved significant results in controlling systolic blood pressure ( p < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure ( p = 0.007), and eGFR ( p = 0.013). Significant results were achieved in the overall quality of life ( p < 0.001) and the quality of life in the physical (PHC; p < 0.001) and mental health components (MHC; p < 0.001). Furthermore, the effects in the experimental group lasted for as long as 6 months and were better than those in the control group. Moreover, this program can provide nursing staff with a reference different from traditional health education methods.
Association of nocturnal subconjunctival hemorrhage and non-dipper blood pressure pattern: A benign clue for serious diseases
Authors: Çalış Karanfil Feyza , Karanfil Mustafa , Toklu Yasin
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the association between non-dipper blood pressure pattern and subconjunctival hemorrhage (SCH).

Methods

Twenty-seven consecutive patients with nocturnal SCH and 27 age, sex-matched controls were enrolled. Demographic, blood parameters, office blood pressure measurements, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) were evaluated.

Results

Mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) for nighttime (65.03 ± 7.1 vs. 70.78 ± 10.5, p: 0.22), mean heart rate for nighttime (64.54 ± 8.26 vs. 69.93 ± 9.85, p: 0.034), Minimum Systolic Blood pressure(SBP) and DBP values for nighttime (92.44 ± 9.72 vs. 99.44 ± 10.66, p:0.015 and 51.15 ± 8.31 vs. 57.7 ± 11.2, p: 0.018) were higher, nocturnal fall ratio of SBP and DBP were significantly lower in the SCH ( + ) group compared to SCH (-) group (5.38 ± 8.39 vs. 10.34 ± 6.08, p: 0.016 and 4.26 ± 8.92 vs. 13.78 ± 6.97, p < 0001 respectively). Ten patients (37%) in the SCH (-) group and 18 patients (66.7%) in the SCH ( + ) group were non-dippers (p: 0.029). Mean daytime SBP and DBP were higher compared to office measurements of 4 patients (14.8%) in the SCH (-) group and 11 patients (40.7%) in the SCH ( + ) group (p: 0.033)

Conclusion

SCH had a strong association with non-dipper blood pressure pattern, higher nocturnal heart rate and masked hypertension which are precursors of myocardial infarction, stroke and renal failure. So, SCH should be considered as a clue for serious diseases such as coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, stroke and patients should be evaluated for ABPM.