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Improvements in cancer care have led to an exponential increase in cancer survival. This is particularly the case for breast cancer, where 5-year survival in Australia exceeds 90%. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has emerged as one of the competing causes of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors, both as a complication of cancer therapies and because the risk factors for cancer are shared with those for CVD. In this review we cover the key aspects of cardiovascular care for women throughout their cancer journey: the need for baseline cardiovascular risk assessment and management, a crucial component of the cardiovascular care; the importance of long-term surveillance for ongoing maintenance of cardiovascular health; and strong evidence for the beneficial effects of physical exercise to improve both cancer and cardiovascular outcomes. There is general disparity in cardiovascular outcomes for women, which is further exacerbated when both CVD and cancer co-exist. Collaboration between oncology and cardiac services, with an emergence of the whole field of cardio-oncology, allows for expedited investigation and treatment for these patients. This collaboration as well as a holistic approach to patient care and key role of patients' general practitioners are essential to ensure long-term health of people living with, during and beyond cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthelmintic treatment may select for biological traits more relevant than anthelmintic resistance. Some of these biological traits may also affect anthelmintic performance, without fulfilling the definition of resistance. Other non-drug ecological selection pressures could potentially affect anthelmintic performance. Long-term intensive use of anthelmintics for parasite control of livestock, companion animals, and humans has resulted in widespread anthelmintic resistance, a problem of great socioeconomic significance. But anthelmintic therapy may also select for other biological traits, which could have implications for anthelmintic performance. Here, we highlight recent examples of changing parasite dynamics following anthelmintic administration, which do not fit the definition of anthelmintic resistance. We also consider other possible examples in which anthelmintic resistance has clearly established, but where coselection for other biological traits may have also occurred. We offer suggestions for collecting more information and gaining a better understanding of these phenomena. Finally, we propose research questions that require further investigation and make suggestions to help address these knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Three-dimensional exact solutions of the theories of elasticity pertaining to the static analysis of doubly curved (DC) antisymmetric angle-ply composite shells of rectangular planform have been derived. The method of exact solutions can be used in a straightforward manner to find the numerical values of exact solutions for any fiber orientation angle in the layers of the antisymmetric angle-ply shells. The exact solutions of displacements and stresses in the spherical antisymmetric angle-ply shells for some modes of deformations in which the magnitude of the fiber orientation angle is 45° cannot be used for other fiber orientation angles and vice versa. Verification of a simple finite element model of the shells with the exact solutions derived here reveals that the derived exact solutions may serve as the benchmark solutions for DC antisymmetric angle-ply composite shells of rectangular planform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Mental disorders positively associate with sleep disorders. This study will explore the moderating influence of comorbid mental disorders and whether selected psychotropic drugs correlate with sleep disorders after adjusting for mental disorders. Methods: A retrospective cohort study design was employed using medical claim data from the Deseret Mutual Benefit Administrators (DMBA). Mental disorders, psychotropic drug use, and demographic data were extracted from claim files for ages 18–64, years 2016–2020. Results: Approximately 11.7% filed one or more claims for a sleep disorder [insomnia (2.2%) and sleep apnea (9.7%)]. Rates for selected mental disorders ranged from 0.09% for schizophrenia to 8.4% for anxiety. The rate of insomnia is greater in those with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia than in other mental disorders. The rate of sleep apnea is greater in those with bipolar disorder and depression. There is a significantly positive association between mental disorders and insomnia and sleep apnea, more so for insomnia, especially if they had other comorbid mental disorders. Psychotropic drugs other than CNS stimulants, primarily sedatives (non-barbiturate) and psychostimulants, explain much of the positive association between anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder with insomnia. Psychotropic drugs with the largest effect on sleep disorders are sedatives (non-barbiturate) and psychostimulants for insomnia and psychostimulants and anticonvulsants for sleep apnea. Conclusion: Mental disorders positively correlate with insomnia and sleep apnea. The positive association is greater when multiple mental illness exists. Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are most strongly associated with insomnia, and bipolar disorder and depression are most strongly associated with sleep disorders. Psychotropic drugs other than CNS stimulants, primarily sedatives (non-barbiturate) and psychostimulants for treating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder are associated with higher levels of insomnia and sleep apnea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess whether child sleep disorders positively correlate with parental insomnia, hypersomnia, and sleep apnea, and whether parental and child sleep disorders simultaneously positively associate with parental stress. Potential modifying influences of these associations by age, sex, and marital status will be considered. Methods: Analyses are based on 14,009 employees aged 18–64 with dependent children (n = 44,157) insured by Deseret Mutual Benefit Administrator (DMBA) in 2020. Rate ratios are adjusted for age, sex, and marital status. Results: The rate of parental stress is 3.00 (95% CI 2.33–4.85) times greater for those with insomnia and 1.88 (95% CI 1.59–2.22) times greater for those with sleep apnea. There is no increased risk of stress for those with hypersomnia. The number of dependent children filing one or more medical claims for a sleep disorder is 2.0%. Mean age is significantly older among those with a sleep disorder (17.1 vs. 14.4, t p <.0001). Child sex is not associated with the risk of having a sleep disorder. The rate of employee insomnia is 111% greater if their child has a sleep disorder, and employee sleep apnea is 115% greater if their child has a sleep disorder. The association between child sleep disorders and sleep apnea decreases with employee age (Wald chi-square p = 0.0410). The rate of employee stress is 90% greater if their child has a sleep disorder, 189% greater if they have insomnia, and 81% greater if they have sleep apnea. The strength of the association between insomnia and stress is greater for women (Wald Chi-square p = 0.0114), between sleep apnea and stress is greater for women (Wald chi-square p = 0.0010), and between sleep apnea and stress is greater for singles (Wald chi-square p = 0.0010). Conclusions: Better understanding the connection between parent and child sleep problems and parent stress, and modifying influences, may improve treatment of these disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental health disorders can adversely affect relationships and are heritable. Yet, there is a high prevalence of mental illness in spouses and partners of those with mental illness. This study will assess within- and cross-mental health disorder correlations in husband-and-wife pairs. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed using medical claims data from the Deseret Mutual Benefit Administrators (DMBA), linked to demographic information from employee eligibility files, 2020. Analyses involved 21,027 contract holders aged 18–64 (68.6% male, 31.4% female), with sub-analyses on 16,543 married individuals. Summary statistics, as well as rates, and rate ratios adjusted for age, sex, and dependent child status were calculated to describe the data. Results: The rate of stress is 19.2%, anxiety is 26.4%, and depression is 23.6% in spouses of contract holders with the same respective disorders. Rates of stress, anxiety, and depression in a spouse are greatest if the contract holder has schizophrenia. Rates of mental illness in wives of male contract holders experiencing mental health disorders tend to be greater than the rates of mental illness in husbands of female contract holders experiencing mental health disorders. Rates of stress, anxiety, and depression in spouses of contract holders tend to be 2–3 times greater when the contract holder has a mental health disorder, after adjusting for the contract holder's age, sex, dependent child status, and difference in age within husband-and-wife pairs. However, differences in the magnitude of observed associations vary. The rate of a spouse having stress is 5.5 times greater if the contract holder has schizophrenia (vs. does not have schizophrenia), whereas the rate of a spouse having stress is 1.4 times greater if the contract holder has sleep apnea (vs. does not have sleep apnea). Conclusion: Mental health disorders in spouses of contract holders are greater if the contract holder has a mental health disorder, more so when the contract holder has more serious mental illness. Both within- and cross-mental disorder correlations exist. These results have implications on relationship quality and the mental health of offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important property of oscillating systems like RLC circuits is the Q factor, which quantifies the strength of damping in the system. The Q factor is inversely proportional to the resistance for a series RLC circuit but increases with the resistance in a parallel RLC circuit. The surprising behavior of the parallel RLC circuit makes building and modeling this circuit an interesting project for a student laboratory. We describe an experiment that has been performed to explore this topic, share an example of the results that can be obtained, and suggest analyses that students might perform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the constitutive modeling of the flexomagnetic (FM) effect in structures involving a non-zero magnetic field generated in the presence of inhomogeneous strain across the domain. In order to evaluate the magneto-elastic (ME) structural response, the tensorial governing equations and associated boundary conditions for the mechanical and magnetic variables are derived here using the variational principle. Following this, these differential equations are solved to determine the effect of FM over the bending response of a cantilever piezomagnetic nanobeam. Different magnetic boundary conditions are analyzed to study the effect of direct and converse FM couplings over the ME response. The significant influence of FM coupling over the ME response has been noted for thin beams with low-dimensions, which wanes as the geometric dimensions are increased. Given the significance of this size-dependent FM response in nano-structures, the theory for flexomagnetism proposed here may be utilized in the development of smart ME nano-structures with the potential for wide applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual and multiple asymmetric Fano resonance are theoretically explored in a subwavelength plasmonic cavity-coupled waveguide system incorporated with a third order Kerr nonlinear medium. The degree of asymmetry and the number of multiple resonances are controlled by an external pump beam which modulates the Kerr permittivity thereby dictating the resonant behavior. Electromagnetically induced transparency in plasmonic systems, referred to as plasmon induced transparency, is a special case of Fano resonance and plays a key role for the occurrence of multiple Fano excitations. Plasmon induced transparency appears as induced reflectance dips when analyzed in reflection mode. Though geometrical dependency of dual and multiple Fano effect is demonstrated, the main interest and importance is focused on the generation and manipulation of multiple Fano resonances by intensity modulation of the pump beam and its application in multispectral switching and quality factor tuning at a fixed operating frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animals are exposed to different visual stimuli that influence how they perceive and interact with their environment. Visual information such as shape and colour can help animals detect, discriminate, and make appropriate behavioural decisions for mate selection, communication, camouflage, and foraging. Previous research indicates that at least some species within all major vertebrate groups prefer and can discriminate among certain colours and that colour may increase the response to a stimulus. However, since colour is often studied together with other potentially confounding factors such as movement and scent, it is still unclear what role colour plays in the perception of and attention to different stimuli. In this study, we test whether colour influences the response that an animal has to an object, and whether this influence changes depending on the type of object shown to the animal. We assessed the response of three gecko species, Correlophus ciliatus, Eublepharis macularius, and Phelsuma laticauda, to familiar and novel objects presented as colour or grayscale images. Our results indicate that colour does not change the response to objects. Specifically, we found that while all species responded more often to novel than to the familiar images, colour did not influence the response. We also found that the duration of interaction with images was significantly longer for the diurnal species, P. laticauda, than for the two nocturnal species, but this was also independent of colouration. Finally, no differences among sexes were observed within or between species. Our results show that geckos discriminate between 2D images of different content independent of colouration, suggesting that colour may not increase detectability or intensity of the response. These results are essential for uncovering which visual stimuli produce responses in animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a generalized term, usually known as "jelly belly" since 1884. Incidence is very low, 1–3 per million people per year. Because of its indolent nature, it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, thereby impacting the quality of life. The 5-year survival rate varies from 23 to 86% in world literature. Even 10 years and 20 years of survival have been described. With our experience, we like to propose rename of PMP as abdomino-peritoneal mucinous carcinoma (APM) as we strongly feel the time has come to specify the term and standardize the management strategy. Methodology: In the premier institute of India and as a tertiary referral center, we experienced the maximum number of advanced cases of APM. From 2012 to 2021, we analyzed all the APM patients based on a prospectively maintained computerized database in the department of surgical oncology and found the reasons for renaming from this traditional one. Results: We included a total of 87 patients who underwent surgical intervention. Thirty-five patients underwent cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), and 52 patients underwent debulking. In CRS-HIPEC patients, CC-0 was achieved in 28 patients (80%), CC-1 in 4 patients (11.4%), and CC-2 in 3 patients (8.6%). Palliative intent HIPEC was done in 3 patients (8.6%). Clavien-Dindo grade III and IV morbidity was observed in 18.8% of patients with 90 days mortality of 5.7%. Conclusion: With our long-term experience and advancement of scientific evidence, we like to propose a new name for PMP as APM. We strongly believe this paper will give a clear picture of this rare disease and standard management outlines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theoretical investigation of optical switching in a plasmonic device comprising a metaldielectric-metal waveguide perpendicularly coupled to a single nanocavity is reported. The cavity is filled with a third order nonlinear Kerr material whose optical properties are manipulated using a control beam to trigger the switching operation. The performance of the switch is quantitatively evaluated and compared with other switching mechanisms used in a similar plasmonic structure. The comparative study reveals that the efficiency of our plasmonic switch is many folds higher and hence advantageous over absorption switching. The dependence of switching efficiency on material parameters and input intensity of the control illumination is demonstrated in detail. Switching efficiency is calculated using various nonlinear crystals, glasses, liquids, and other materials. Bistability study and consequent determination of the hysteresis loop width provides an idea of required threshold intensity and sensitiveness of the nonlinear plasmonic switch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. In 2018, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommended that PSA screening for prostate cancer involve men aged 55–69, based on a personal decision following consultation with a health professional. PSA screening in men aged 70 or older should only occur if symptoms exist. This study identifies the association between having a PSA test in the past two years and whether or not there was consultation with a health professional about the benefits and/or harms of PSA screening. Methods. Analyses were based on data involving men aged 40 years or older, who responded to PSA related questions in the 2018 BRFSS survey. Results. Approximately 32.0% (14.6% for ages 40–54, 41.7% for ages 55–69, and 49.8% for ages 70 years and older) of respondents had a PSA test in the past two years. Approximately 81.7% of these men had talked with a health professional about the benefits and/or harms of PSA screening, with 42.4% having discussed the benefits and harms, 54.6% having discussed the benefits only, and 3.0% having discussed the harms only. The odds of a PSA test in the past two years in men having talked with a health professional about the benefits and harms of the test versus no talk are 10.1 (95% CI 9.3–10.8), in men who talked with a health professional about the benefits only versus no talk are 10.8 (95% CI 10.0–11.6), and in men who talked with a health professional about the harms only versus no talk are 3.9 (95% CI 2.9–5.1). Conclusion. PSA screening is most common in men aged 70 or older, which is counter to the US Preventive Task Force recommendation. Most men having a PSA test have talked with a health professional about the test, but the talks tended to focus on just the benefits of screening and not both potential benefits and harms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triboelectrification and its underlying mechanisms have been studied over several decades to provide us with deterministic tools which can predict the occurrence of such phenomenon. This has also produced many charge transfer models that have been validated by some experiments and contradicted by others. However, certain trends have emerged which provide insight for a general charge evolution model. Variations produced by impact conditions and solids surface properties have been discussed in greater detail in recent years and their effects need to be modeled as well. Of particular interest is the occurrence of bipolar charging in insulative particle systems. While models can predict such behavior with suitable work function differences, justifying this for particles of the same material is not obvious. Aside from discrete models, simulation setup and parameters used have also significant impact on outcomes. These factors and their implications are reviewed in this paper while highlighting shortcomings that need to be addressed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chelonioidea (sea turtles) are a group where available morphological evidence for crown-group relationships are incongruent with those established using molecular data. However, morphological surveys of crown-group taxa tend to focus on a recurring subset of the extant species. The Australian flatback sea turtle, Natator depressus , is often excluded from comparisons and it is the most poorly known of the seven extant species of Chelonioidea. Previous descriptions of its skull morphology are limited and conflict. Here we describe three skulls of adult N. depressus and re-examine the phylogenetic relationships according to morphological character data. Using X-ray micro Computed Tomography we describe internal structures of the braincase and identify new phylogenetically informative characters not previously reported. Phylogenetic analysis using a Bayesian approach strongly supports a sister-group relationship between Chelonia mydas and N. depressus , a topology that was not supported by previous analyses of morphological data but one that matches the topology supported by analysis of molecular data. Our results highlight the general need to sample the morphological anatomy of crown-group taxa more thoroughly before concluding that morphological and molecular evidence are incongruous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study assesses whether women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk behavior have higher Papanicolaou (Pap), human papillomavirus (HPV), and HIV testing, and whether the level of selected variables associated with HIV risk behavior correlate with greater testing. Association between HIV risk situations and HPV vaccination is also evaluated. Methods: A cross-sectional assessment was performed in women at age 18 years and older completing the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey. Independent variables considered and adjusted for, included age, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, annual household income, smoking status, and health care status. Results: Prevalence of a Pap test in the past 3 years was 66.2%, of HPV test in the past 5 years was 40.2%, and of HIV test ever was 41.9%. HIV risk situations applied to 4.9% women (15.2% in ages 18–24, 7.2% in 25–44, 1.9% in 45–64, and 0.6% in 65 years and older). Adjusted odds (95% confidence interval) of a Pap, HPV, or HIV test according to HIV risk behavior status were 1.5 (1.3–1.8), 1.6 (1.4–1.8), and 2.6 (2.3–2.9), respectively. The positive association between HIV risk behavior and Pap testing depends on marital status. HIV risk behavior significantly correlates with several variables, which, in turn, correlate with testing. There was no association between HIV risk behavior and HPV vaccination. Conclusions: Women with HIV risk behavior are more likely to pursue Pap, HPV, and HIV testing. The significant positive associations are largest for HIV testing and smallest for Pap testing, after adjustment for the selected variables. HIV risk behavior is not associated with HPV vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The charge transferred between individual particles of varying materials (aluminum, PTFE and nylon) and sizes (3.2–4.8 mm) was investigated using a particle collision apparatus. The collisions were video-recorded and analyzed via a Particle Tracking Velocimetry software to determine the particles' impact velocities and angles. Glancing impacts were found to have a notable effect on charge transfer. Different-material collisions exhibited expected directions of charge transfer. Same-sized nylon collisions revealed that their charge transfer amplified the difference in the particles' initial charges in most cases. Different-sized nylon collisions suggested that size-dependent bipolar charging occurs in individual particle-particle collisions. However, the charging magnitude and direction did not correlate with their size differences, and so additional particle collision experiments with other material types and sizes are needed. This work should be considered as a steppingstone for future researchers to explore particle-particle charge transfer in their respective systems, and develop empirical particle charging models. Unlabelled Image • Measured the charge transferred due to isolated particle-particle collisions. • PTFE-Al and PTFE-Nylon collisions exhibited expected directions of charge transfer. • Identical nylon collisions amplified the difference in the particles' charges. • Different-sized nylon collisions confirmed bipolar charging behaviour. • Tangential impact velocities have a notable effect on electrostatic charging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Treatment of Stage IVA ovarian carcinoma needs a combined multidisciplinary team approach. The peritoneal disease needs adequate local treatment with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy (HITHOC) is a reasonable treatment option for ovarian carcinoma with malignant pleural effusion or pleural deposits. The CRS with HIPEC and HITHOC needs collaborative surgical and anesthetic skills and is a more technically demanding procedure. Methods: We are sharing the experience of three advanced cases diagnosed with Stage IVA ovarian carcinoma with subdiaphragmatic deposits along with malignant pleural effusion, which were treated with CRS with combined HIPEC and HITHOC. The feasibility of combined HIPEC and HITHOC along with surgical sequelae and follow-up treatment outcomes are individually summarized. Results: All patients underwent the proposed surgery without any significant intraoperative complications. The postoperative morbidity was acceptable with no recorded mortality. One patient developed recurrent pleural disease on follow-up. Conclusions: HIPEC/HITHOC is an effective and safe therapeutic option to prevent recurrence in Stage IVA ovarian carcinoma, which has previously a dismal prognosis. In addition, the patient's general condition improved symptomatically and the respiratory distress level significantly reduced after the curative-intent treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out during rabi season (September-March) of 2017-18 and 2018-19 at the experimental plot of RRTTS, OUAT, Keonjhar, Odisha to evaluate the nutrient and weed management practices on performance of onion. Fifteen treatmentswere designed in a split plot design. Among all the treatments, the maximum plant height was recorded in N3W4 (56.29 cm) which was closely followed by N3W3 (55.97 cm), number of leaves plant-1 was higher in N3W3 (12.47) significantly which was closely followed by N2W4 (12.33) and N2W3 (12.00) and maximum neck thickness was recorded in N1W2 (1.39 cm). Among yield parameters, the average bulb weight of onion ranges from 33.56 g (N1W2) to 87.6 g (N2W3) while, the highest bulb yields of onion (17.37 and 20.40 t ha-1) was recorded for the treatment which to be exact was applied with pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 0.8 l ha-1 supplement with one hand weeding at 25 DAT with B:C ratio of 1.84 and 1.76 for the year 2017-18 and 2018-19 respectively. Similarly, the treatment combination of N2W3 i.e. application of 50% STBFR along with 50% FYM based on N requirement and pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 0.8 l ha-1+onehand weeding at 25 DAT) was recorded the highest. The available nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potash and sulphur content (284.67 kg ha-1, 14.83 kg ha-1, 97.43 kg ha-1 and 11.40 kg ha-1) in the post-harvest soil was recorded highest with the treatment N2W3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed a coarse-grained description of the phase behavior of the isolated 38-atom Lennard-Jones cluster (LJ38). The model captures both the solid-solid polymorphic transitions at low temperatures and the complex cluster breakup and melting transitions at higher temperatures. For this coarse model development, we employ the manifold learning technique of diffusion mapping. The outcome of the diffusion mapping analysis over a broad temperature range indicates that two order parameters are sufficient to describe the cluster's phase behavior; we have chosen two such appropriate order parameters that are metrics of condensation and overall crystallinity. In this well-justified coarse-variable space, we calculate the cluster's free energy landscape (FEL) as a function of temperature, employing Monte Carlo umbrella sampling. These FELs are used to quantify the phase behavior and onsets of phase transitions of the LJ38 cluster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To better understand the inverse association between altitude and adult obesity. Methods. An ecological study design was used, involving 3,108 counties in the contiguous United States. Data were from several national sources, and assessment involved various statistical techniques, including multiple regression analysis. Results. Living in counties at higher altitude is associated with lower adult obesity. Compared with counties <500 meters, the percent of adult obesity decreases by 5.18% at 500–999 meters, 9.69% at 1,000–1,499 meters, 16.77% at 1,500–1,999 meters, 24.14% at 2,000–2,499 meters, and 35.28% at ≥2,500 meters. After adjusting for physical inactivity, smoking, and other variables, corresponding decreases in adult obesity with higher altitude groupings are 3.87%, 5.64%, 8.03%, 11.41%, and 17.54%, respectively. Various mechanisms are presented as possible explanations for the association between higher altitude and lower obesity. In addition, altitude may indirectly influence adult obesity, primarily through its relationship with physical inactivity and smoking. In an adjusted regression model, adult obesity was most strongly associated with physical inactivity followed by adult smoking and then altitude. Together they explain 39.04% of the variation in adult obesity. After accounting for these variables, sunlight, precipitation, ambient air temperature, education, income, food insecurity, limited access to healthy foods, race, sex, and rural living explain an additional 4.68% of the variation in adult obesity. Conclusions. The inverse association between altitude and adult obesity remains significant after adjustment for several variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Sunlight exposure increases vitamin D-related immune modulation and motility of T lymphocytes. Blue light exposure from the sun can stimulate immune function and help promote healthy circadian rhythm. Hence, greater sunlight exposure may lower the risk of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Altitude may also lower the risk of these cancers through an oxygen-related mechanism, and because cosmic radiation has less shield from the atmosphere at higher levels, it allows for radiation hormesis. Methods: An ecological study design was used, with county-level lymphoma, sunlight, altitude, urban residency, poverty, smoking, obesity, and leisure-time physical inactivity data for 16 cancer registries (607 counties) in the contiguous United States, 2012–2016. Relative rate estimates were derived from two-level mixed effects Poisson regression models. Results: Higher rates of NHL are associated with being older, male, and white. Higher rates of Hodgkin lymphoma are associated with ages 20 years and older, male, and white or black. The risk of NHL or Hodgkin lymphoma is lower among those living in poverty. Urban residency, smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity are not associated with these cancers. Both increased sunlight exposure and higher altitude are simultaneously associated with lower rates of Hodgkin lymphoma and NHL in adjusted models. The inverse association between sunlight and NHL is more pronounced with higher altitude. The inverse association between sunlight and Hodgkin lymphoma is only in altitudes below 500 m. Conclusions: Greater sunlight exposure and higher altitude are simultaneously associated with lower rates of Hodgkin lymphoma and NHL. The inverse associations are dependent on altitude, with the relationship only in lower altitudes for Hodgkin lymphoma and more pronounced in higher altitude for NHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An Eulerian model to describe the behavior of electrically charged particles, which considers charge separation and transfer between particles of two separate species, is developed using the kinetic theory of granular flows. A transport equation for the charge of each particle species is obtained, incorporating the effect of the charge–velocity correlation. Closures for the collisional diffusion of charge and for the charge-velocity covariance are obtained. The developed model is applied to steady-state simulations in a one-dimensional domain with no advection, neglecting momentum transport and assuming a constant granular temperature for the solid species. While this is only a preliminary test of the model, which will require further validation, the results show the prediction of bipolar charging when the particles have different sizes, even though they are made of the same material. This phenomenon is analyzed and is shown to be driven by the electric field produced by the charge accumulated on the particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cerebral contusion, latin 'contusio cerebri', a form of traumatic brain injury, is a bruise of the brain tissue. Contusion occurs in 20-30% of severe head injury. Our aim was to study the outcome of post traumatic cerebral contusion in different lobes in tertiary care centre, Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada. Materials and methods: This was a prospective study of 6 months duration conducted in Government General Hospital under Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, which is a Tertiary care Hospital, rendering services to two large densely populated districts namely, East and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh. All patients sustained head injury was taken up for CT scan at admission. Patients with effacement of ipsilateral ventricle or midline shift to opposite side or mass effect were operated immediately. Patients without the above signs were included in conservative groups, a repeat scan of CT brain was done after 6 hours and 48 hours. Follow up scan done on 7th day and discharged after regression of symptoms, Repeat scans were done at follow up on outpatient basis. Results: Total of 75 cases of contusion was treated in our hospital with an average follow up period of one month up to 6months. Ratio of male to female was 4:1 in our study. Conservatively treated cases were 38 and surgery was done in 37 cases. Commonest location of contusion was frontal lobe, involving both hemisphere in 12 patients, multiple lobe involvement in same hemisphere in 19 patents, associated with EDH/SDH/SAH/DAI in 26 patients, with skull fracture in 13 patients. 12 conservatively managed patients required surgery after repeat scan done at 6-48 hours interval duration due to surrounding edema causing mass effect, deterioration of neurological condition, signs and symptoms of persistent raised intracranial pressure (Cushing Reflex). Conclusion: In our study, we found that associated SDH/EDH/DAI/skull fracture, GCS at the time of presentation, location of contusion are the determining factors for patient outcome. Frontal lobe is most involved lobe with good outcome in both conservative and surgery group. Patients presented with poor GCS have very high mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with the analysis of the effectiveness of triangular shaped smart constrained layer damping (SCLD) treatment in attenuating geometrically nonlinear transient vibrations of laminated composite beams. The SCLD treatment is comprised of an advanced vertically reinforced 1-3 piezoelectric composite (PZC) as the constraining layer and an isotropic viscoelastic layer as the constrained layer, which is modeled using a two-dimensional fractional order derivative (FOD) model with Grünwald definition of the FODs. A nonlinear meshfree model of the smart composite beam is developed for analyzing its nonlinear transient response within the framework of a layerwise shear and normal deformation theory considering von Kármán type geometric nonlinearity. Cantilever type composite beams having different lamination sequences integrated with regular rectangular/triangular type of SCLD treatments are considered for presenting the numerical results. For comparison purpose, a geometrical constraint has been imposed such that both the rectangular and triangular shaped SCLD treatments will cover the equal area on the top surface of the beam. The numerical analyses demonstrate the effectiveness of the triangular shaped SCLD patches over the rectangular SCLD treatment in controlling the nonlinear vibration of laminated composite beams. The two-dimensional FOD model of the viscoelastic material has been efficiently implemented for the active damping analysis of smart composite beam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined grandchildren's perceptions of the quality of their relationship with their grandmothers and how these perceptions relate to psychosocial outcomes. Eighty-two youth from Mexico and 99 youth from the United States aged between 13 and 16 participated. Results suggested that both cultures benefit in unique ways from positive relationship with their grandmothers. Yet, there were also differences in the relational experience of grandmother–grandchild relationships across cultures. Specifically, grandchildren in the U.S. sample reported higher relationship quality, relational competency, and self-efficacy than the grandchildren in the Mexico sample. Within the U.S. sample, relationship quality was associated with grandchildren's relational competence, while in the Mexico sample, relationship quality was associated with self-efficacy. Limitations of the present study include restricted generalizability to other age groups and to grandfathers and that only one element of the grandparent–grandchild dyad was sampled. Longitudinal research will improve our understanding of the causal dynamics of grandparent–grandchild relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the size-dependent mechanical response of an isotropic functionally graded (FG) microbeam has been investigated. The size-effects over the elastic response have been modeled by the Mindlin–Toupin strain gradient theory, with the coefficients evaluated from the generalized first strain gradient theory of elasticity. In order to facilitate the derivation of the exact solutions to the governing differential equations of equilibrium, an exponentially graded FG beam is chosen. These exact solutions are derived for a simply supported beam subjected to a sinusoidally distributed mechanical load. Following this, an element-free Galerkin (EFG) model involving moving least squares interpolations across the domain is also developed here. The EFG model is validated with the exact solutions for the exponentially graded beam. Finally, the EFG model is extended to the more general case of a power law-graded beam. The mechanical responses for the power law-graded beams under various loading and boundary conditions are presented here. These results may serve as benchmark for further studies over size-effects in FG beams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the dynamics of colloidal crystallization in a 32-particle system at a fixed value of interparticle depletion attraction that produces coexisting fluid and solid phases. Free energy landscapes (FELs) and diffusivity landscapes (DLs) are obtained as coefficients of 1D Smoluchowski equations using as order parameters either the radius of gyration or the average crystallinity. FELs and DLs are estimated by fitting the Smoluchowski equations to Brownian dynamics (BD) simulations using either linear fits to locally initiated trajectories or global fits to unbiased trajectories using Bayesian inference. The resulting FELs are compared to Monte Carlo Umbrella Sampling results. The accuracy of the FELs and DLs for modeling colloidal crystallization dynamics is evaluated by comparing mean first-passage times from BD simulations with analytical predictions using the FEL and DL models. While the 1D models accurately capture dynamics near the free energy minimum fluid and crystal configurations, predictions near the transition region are not quantitatively accurate. A preliminary investigation of ensemble averaged 2D order parameter trajectories suggests that 2D models are required to capture crystallization dynamics in the transition region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total internal reflection microscopy (TIRM) and video microscopy (VM) are methods for nonintrusively measuring weak colloidal interactions important to many existing and emerging applications. Existing analyses of TIRM measured single particle trajectories can be used to extract particle-surface potentials and average particle diffusion coefficients. Here we develop a Fokker–Planck (FP) formalism to simultaneously extract both particle-surface interaction potentials and position dependent diffusion coefficients. The FP analysis offers several advantages including capabilities to measure separation dependent hydrodynamic interactions and nonequilibrium states that are not possible with existing analyses. The FP analysis is implemented to analyze Brownian dynamic simulations of single particle TIRM and VM experiments in several configurations. Relative effects of spatial and temporal sampling on the correct interpretation of both conservative and dissipative forces are explored and show a broad range of applicability for accessible experimental systems. Our results demonstrate the ability to extract both static and dynamic information from microscopy measurements of isolated particles near surfaces, which provides a foundation for further investigation of particle ensembles and nonequilibrium systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a dual-class authentic learning experience (ALE) in which undergraduate upper-division physics students develop low-cost instruments, which are then used by students in a lower-division course to monitor water quality in rivers. The ALE bridges the experiences of lower- and upper-division physics majors by involving students across different stages of their college careers in a collaborative project. Lower-division physics students characterize, calibrate, and troubleshoot the instrument prototypes developed by their upper-division peers, and their work informs instrument modifications in future upper-division physics classes. This paper describes the first iteration of this project along with student perceptions. We find that lower-division students report an increase in their awareness of possible upper-division projects, an increased sense that their coursework has real-world applications, and a heightened understanding of how physicists can play a role in research on environmental issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Two-fluid model with charge generation and transport model. • Validation of contact charging model against experiments involving polyethylene particles in bubbling fluidized beds. • Prediction of charge density in the fluidized bed with insulating particles. • Prediction of wall sheeting. Abstract A computational model for the prediction of triboelectric charging in gas-solid fluidized beds is developed in the context of the Euler-Euler two-fluid model with kinetic theory closures for the description of the particulate phase. Sub-model for charge transfer due to particle-wall collisions is obtained consistently with the boundary conditions of Johnson and Jackson (1987), and assuming the model of Matsusaka et al. (2000) for charge transfer during a single collision. Similarly, a sub-model for charge diffusion due to particle-particle collisions is developed based on the kinetic theory of granular flow of Jenkins and Savage (1983), and the aforementioned charging model. The Eulerian charging model is then coupled to the two-fluid model, with kinetic theory closures which are available in the OpenFOAM® computational toolbox for fluid dynamics. The model is tested to simulate the effect of polyethylene particle size (362, 462, 550 μm) in the electrification process, and is validated against experimental findings (Sowinski, 2012; Sowinski et al., 2012). The order of magnitude of charge densities in different regions of the bed, predicted by the model, was coherent with the experimental results. The model also predicted that particles larger than 425 μm would not stick to the column wall, which acceptably agreed with the experimental observation that particles larger than 600 μm did not adhere to the wall surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Environmental, demographic, and lifestyle variables have been associated with injury-related deaths. The current study identifies the simultaneous association of selected environmental, demographic, and lifestyle variables with deaths from homicide, unintentional injuries, and suicide.Materials and Methods: Analyses are based on county-level mortality data in the contiguous United States, 2011-15. Basic summary statistics and Poisson regression were used to evaluate the data.Results: The selected causes of death were impacted differently by age, sex, and race: for homicide, mortality rates were greater in ages 20-39, males, and blacks; for unintentional injuries, the rates increased with age, most noticeably in the oldest age group, and were highest among males and whites; and for suicide, the rates tended to increase with age and were greater in males and whites. Mortality rates from homicide were positively associated with poverty, cigarette smoking, air temperature, and leisure-time physical inactivity. They were negatively associated with precipitation and sunlight. Mortality rates from unintentional injuries were positively associated with altitude, cigarette smoking, air temperature, poverty, obesity, and precipitation. They were negatively associated with population density. Mortality rates from suicides were positively associated with altitude, cigarette smoking, obesity, air temperature, and precipitation and negatively associated with population density.Conclusion: The results confirm and extend previous research in which death from homicide, unintentional injuries, and suicide are distinctly associated with a combination of environmental, demographic, and lifestyle variables. The findings may be useful in developing strategies for reducing injury-related deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by frequent interruptions in breathing related to upper airway collapse during sleep and may adversely affect phonatory function. This study aimed to: (1) establish the prevalence, risks, and quality of life burden of voice disorders in OSA and (2) explore the relation between voice disorders and positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Study Design: Cross-sectional, descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: Analyses were based on 94 individuals with OSA (53 men, 41 women; mean age = 54.7 ± 12.8 years) who completed a telephone interview. Results: Twenty-eight percent of participants reported having a current voice disorder. Of those with a current voice disorder, 83% had experienced symptoms for at least a year, and 58% had symptoms for at least 4 years. The prevalence of a current voice disorder was greater in women than men (44% vs 15%, P = .0020) but did not vary significantly across different age groups, body mass index (BMI), apnea/hypopnea index (AHI) severity, or medical history. After adjusting for sex, consistent use of PAP therapy (with humidification) was associated with (1) lower occurrence of voice disorders in women (Mantel-Haenszel [MH] χ2P = .0195), (2) reduced snoring severity accompanied by fewer voice disorders in men (MH χ2P = .0101), and (3) fewer reports of acid reflux as a possible trigger for voice problems (MH χ2P = .0226). Patients with OSA who also had a current voice disorder experienced lower overall quality of life compared to those without. Conclusions: Chronic, longstanding voice disorders are common in women with OSA and produce significant adverse effects on quality of life. Nightly PAP use (with humidification) was associated with fewer voice symptoms and reduced severity of snoring and acid reflux as possible contributors. Further research is necessary to better understand the origin of these voice disorders in OSA and their potential response to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the number and total cost of medical claims for members of the Municipalities, Colleges, Schools Insurance Group by participation status in a comprehensive incentive-based wellness program. Methods: Analyses are based on 6810 members during 2013 to 2016. The wellness program began in 2014. Results: Approximately 32.5% women and 22.9% men (P <0.0001) participated in the wellness program. In 2013, those who participated in 2014 to 2016 filed a higher number of medical claims (P = 0.0004), but their total cost of claims was similar to those who did not participate in 2014 to 2016. By 2016, participants in the wellness program on average filed 3.6 (P = 0.0102) fewer claims and experienced $1346 (P = 0.0011) lower total cost of claims. Conclusion: Wellness program participation was associated with a lower number and total cost of medical claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper treats an inclusion problem in the framework of a generalized strain gradient theory (GSGT) of elasticity. The GSGT used here consists of three material characteristic length scales for the evaluation of the elastic response. The Green’s function for the governing differential equations, involving stresses and higher-order stresses, is obtained considering the strain gradient model mentioned above. Then, Eshelby’s tensor is derived in the current framework for an inclusion of any arbitrary shape, under uniform eigenfields. This general form of the Eshelby’s tensor is used to derive closed-form expressions for a spherical inclusion and an infinitely long cylindrical inclusion, each embedded in an unbounded matrix to ignore the boundary effects. To determine the homogenized properties of the composites considering size-effects, the volume averages of the position-dependent Eshelby’s tensor are evaluated for both the inclusions. All the results from the current study match the corresponding results from classical elasticity, when the strain gradient effects are ignored. The homogenized properties of composites with either of the inclusions are strongly influenced by the gradient effects when the dimensions of the inclusions are comparable to the characteristic length scales. They approach the volume averages evaluated using classical elasticity, when the dimensions of the inclusion are very high in comparison with the characteristic lengths. The current study presents the importance of considering the size-effects using GSGT, without any assumption, for the evaluation of the effective properties of the micro- and nano-composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) remains the method of choice for establishing the efficacy of anthelmintic compounds in the field, including the diagnosis of anthelmintic resistance. We present a guideline for improving the standardization and performance of the FECRT that has four sections. In the first section, we address the major issues relevant to experimental design, choice of faecal egg count (FEC) method, statistical analysis, and interpretation of the FECRT results. In the second section, we make a series of general recommendations that are applicable across all animals addressed in this guideline. In the third section, we provide separate guidance details for cattle, small ruminants (sheep and goats), horses and pigs to address the issues that are specific to the different animal types. Finally, we provide overviews of the specific details required to conduct an FECRT for each of the different host species. To address the issues of statistical power vs. practicality, we also provide two separate options for each animal species; (i) a version designed to detect small changes in efficacy that is intended for use in scientific studies, and (ii) a less resource-intensive version intended for routine use by veterinarians and livestock owners to detect larger changes in efficacy. Compared to the previous FECRT recommendations, four important differences are noted. First, it is now generally recommended to perform the FECRT based on pre- and post-treatment FEC of the same animals (paired study design), rather than on post-treatment FEC of both treated and untreated (control) animals (unpaired study design). Second, instead of requiring a minimum mean FEC (expressed in eggs per gram (EPG)) of the group to be tested, the new requirement is for a minimum total number of eggs to be counted under the microscope (cumulative number of eggs counted before the application of a conversion factor). Third, we provide flexibility in the required size of the treatment group by presenting three separate options that depend on the (expected) number of eggs counted. Finally, these guidelines address all major livestock species, and the thresholds for defining reduced efficacy are adapted and aligned to host species, anthelmintic drug and parasite species. In conclusion, these new guidelines provide improved methodology and standardization of the FECRT for all major livestock species. • World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology new guideline. • Diagnosis of anthelmintic resistance using the faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). • New WAAVP guideline provides improved methodology and standardization of the FECRT. • New guidelines for ruminants, horses and swine. • Thresholds for defining reduced efficacy are aligned to host, drug and parasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the investigation of the static bending response of nano-beams upon application of a mechanical load, considering the effect of gradient elasticity. The gradient elasticity is modelled using the strain gradient elasticity model with three independent material length constants. For the numerical modelling of the structural response, the higher-order displacement theory is used. The element-free Galerkin method is employed to interpolate the displacement field in the continuum in terms of the nodal displacements. Thereafter, using the variational principle, the governing equations of motion in terms of the nodal displacements are derived in the algebraic form. The model developed in this paper is validated by comparison with the exact solutions available in the literature, for the specific case of a simply supported beam under a sinusoidally distributed load. Following this, the numerical model is solved for various other boundary conditions and loading functions. The effect of the strain gradient elasticity is studied for different aspect ratios, and the results are compared. The reduction of the bending response due to the strain gradient effect is compared for each case. A comparison of the effects of each of the material length scales, corresponding to different forms of the higher-order gradients, over the structural response is performed. The present study reveals that the strain gradient elasticity must be considered for an accurate analysis of nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although various studies have provided novel insights into how to best design, analyze and interpret a fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), it is still not straightforward to provide guidance that allows improving both the standardization and the analytical performance of the FECRT across a variety of both animal and nematode species. For example, it has been suggested to recommend a minimum number of eggs to be counted under the microscope (not eggs per gram of feces), but we lack the evidence to recommend any number of eggs that would allow a reliable assessment of drug efficacy. Other aspects that need further research are the methodology of calculating uncertainty intervals (UIs; confidence intervals in case of frequentist methods and credible intervals in case of Bayesian methods) and the criteria of classifying drug efficacy into ‘normal’, ‘suspected’ and ‘reduced’. The aim of this study is to provide complementary insights into the current knowledge, and to ultimately provide guidance in the development of new standardized guidelines for the FECRT. First, data were generated using a simulation in which the ‘true’ drug efficacy (TDE) was evaluated by the FECRT under varying scenarios of sample size, analytic sensitivity of the diagnostic technique, and level of both intensity and aggregation of egg excretion. Second, the obtained data were analyzed with the aim (i) to verify which classification criteria allow for reliable detection of reduced drug efficacy, (ii) to identify the UI methodology that yields the most reliable assessment of drug efficacy (coverage of TDE) and detection of reduced drug efficacy, and (iii) to determine the required sample size and number of eggs counted under the microscope that optimizes the detection of reduced efficacy. Our results confirm that the currently recommended criteria for classifying drug efficacy are the most appropriate. Additionally, the UI methodologies we tested varied in coverage and ability to detect reduced drug efficacy, thus a combination of UI methodologies is recommended to assess the uncertainty across all scenarios of drug efficacy estimates. Finally, based on our model estimates we were able to determine the required number of eggs to count for each sample size, enabling investigators to optimize the probability of correctly classifying a theoretical TDE while minimizing both financial and technical resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research has shown that higher altitude is associated with lower risk of lung cancer and improved survival among patients. The current study assessed the influence of county-level atmospheric pressure (a measure reflecting both altitude and temperature) on age-adjusted lung cancer mortality rates in the contiguous United States, with 2 forms of spatial regression. Methods: Ordinary least squares regression and geographically weighted regression models were used to evaluate the impact of climate and other selected variables on lung cancer mortality, based on 2974 counties. Results: Atmospheric pressure was significantly positively associated with lung cancer mortality, after controlling for sunlight, precipitation, PM2.5 (μg/m3), current smoker, and other selected variables. Positive county-level b coefficient estimates (P < .05) for atmospheric pressure were observed throughout the United States, higher in the eastern half of the country. Conclusion: The spatial regression models showed that atmospheric pressure is positively associated with age-adjusted lung cancer mortality rates, after controlling for other selected variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scaffold protein SH2B1, a major regulator of body weight, is recruited to the receptors of multiple cytokines and growth factors, including nerve growth factor (NGF). The β isoform, but not the α isoform, of SH2B1 greatly enhances NGF-dependent neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells. Here we asked how the unique C-terminal tails of the α and β isoforms modulate SH2B1 function. We compared the actions of SH2B1α and SH2B1β to those of the N-terminal 631 amino acids shared by both isoforms. In contrast to the β-tail, the α-tail inhibited the ability of SH2B1 to both cycle through the nucleus and enhance NGF-mediated neurite outgrowth, gene expression, phosphorylation of Akt and PLCγ and autophosphorylation of the NGF receptor TrkA. These functions were restored when Tyr753 in the α-tail was mutated to phenylalanine. We provide evidence that TrkA phosphorylates Tyr753 in SH2B1α, as well as tyrosines 439 and 55 in both SH2B1α and SH2B1β. Finally, co-expression of SH2B1α, but not SH2B1α Y753F, inhibited the ability of SH2B1β to enhance neurite outgrowth. These results suggest that the C-terminal tails of SH2B1 isoforms are key determinants of the cellular role of SH2B1. Furthermore, the function of SH2B1α is regulated by phosphorylation of the α-tail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(LaSrMnO)-(BaTiO) solid solution samples ( x = 0, 0.03, and 0.08) were synthesized by sol-gel route. Pure LaSrMnO has orthorhombic structure with Pbnm space group whereas solid solution samples possess rhombohedral structure with R-3c space group. Temperature-dependent ac susceptibility at different frequencies and memory effect confirmed the spin-glass behavior in these samples. The samples exhibited magnetocaloric coefficient around room temperature. The maximum values of magnetic entropy change observed in our samples are 0.45, 0.86, and 1.07 J Kg K for x = 0.03 and 0.62, 1.23 and 1.56 J Kg K for x = 0.08 compounds at 2, 4, and 5 T applied magnetic fields, respectively. The relative cooling power values for x = 0.03 and 0.08 are 55.9 and 116.5 J Kg, respectively, at 5 T. The observed multifunctional properties of the studied system give a new direction to explore the magnetocaloric effect in similar such systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a three-dimensional fractional order derivative model has been developed for the constrained viscoelastic layer of the active constrained layer damping (ACLD) treatment of laminated composite shells undergoing geometrically nonlinear vibrations. The constraining layer of the ACLD treatment is made of vertically/obliquely reinforced 1–3 piezoelectric composites and acts as the distributed actuator. A three-dimensional smart nonlinear finite element model has been developed. Several numerical results are presented to check the accuracy of the present three-dimensional fractional derivative model of the constrained viscoelastic layer for smart damping of geometrically nonlinear vibrations of laminated composite shells. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective. To examine the health behavior changes and mental-health and job-related outcomes of school-based employees over 2 years while participating in a worksite wellness program. Method. All participants in this analysis (n = 1,873) were employees of a large public school district in the western United States and voluntarily enrolled in a comprehensive wellness program. Exercise level, fruit and vegetable consumption, restful sleep, smoking, alcohol consumption, self-rated health, mental health-related outcomes (stress, depression, life-satisfaction, and loneliness), and job-related outcomes (job performance, absenteeism, job-related satisfaction) are reported. Results. There was an increase in days and minutes/week exercised, fruit/ vegetable consumption, days per week of restful sleep, and a decrease in alcohol consumption (ps < .037) over 2 years. Among those who reported smoking, the number of days smoked increased after 1 year but then dropped below baseline levels at year 2 (p < .0001). Several mental health-related outcomes improved (ps < .033); however, job performance was slightly lower (? 2%), and the other job-related outcomes were unchanged. Conclusion. School employees may benefit from a comprehensive worksite wellness program, particularly to improve health behaviors. However, mental health and job-related outcome results were mixed over 2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Existing literature lacks high-quality evidence regarding the ideal intraoperative positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) to minimize postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). We hypothesized that applying individualized PEEP derived from electrical impedance tomography would reduce the severity of postoperative lung aeration loss, deterioration in oxygenation, and PPC incidence. Methods: A pilot feasibility study was conducted on 36 patients who underwent open abdominal oncologic surgery. The patients were randomized to receive individualized PEEP or conventional PEEP at 4 cmH2O. The primary outcome was the impact of individualized PEEP on changes in the modified lung ultrasound score (MLUS) derived from preoperative and postoperative lung ultrasonography. A higher MLUS indicated greater lung aeration loss. The secondary outcomes were the PaO2/FiO2 ratio and PPC incidence. Results: A significant increase in the postoperative MLUS (12.0 ± 3.6 vs 7.9 ± 2.1, P < 0.001) and a significant difference between the postoperative and preoperative MLUS values (7.0 ± 3.3 vs 3.0 ± 1.6, P < 0.001) were found in the conventional PEEP group, indicating increased lung aeration loss. In the conventional PEEP group, the intraoperative PaO2/FiO2 ratios were significantly lower, but not the postoperative ratios. The PPC incidence was not significantly different between the groups. Post-hoc analysis showed the increase in lung aeration loss and deterioration of intraoperative oxygenation correlated with the deviation from the individualized PEEP. Conclusions: Individualized PEEP appears to protect against lung aeration loss and intraoperative oxygenation deterioration. The advantage was greater in patients whose individualized PEEP deviated more from the conventional PEEP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]