A Flow Model for the Effect of a Slanted Base on Drag

Experiments by Morel have shown that slanting the base of a bluff body causes large variations in the drag Introduction In the search to reduce drag of road vehicles, it has become clear that a more basic understanding of the complex flows about such bodies is required. Many investigations of drag and flow phenomena exist; see A particularly interesting phenomenon is the effect that slanting the base has on the drag of a bluff body. Following up on work by Janssen and Hucho, partially reported in reference [1], Morel did a comprehensive study of that effect, see The most striking result from the tests of Morel was the extremely rapid change in drag coefficient, C

A Short Weight Loss Intervention in a Neurosurgical Subspecialist Clinical Setting

Context: The relationship between back pain and obesity is well characterized; therefore, the neurosurgical consultant visit for back pain may be a key interventional opportunity for weight loss. Aims: The aim of this project was to evaluate efficacy of an educational intervention for back pain. Methods: A retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate effectiveness of an educational intervention (Show patient's own MRI, Explain degenerative disc disease, Relate to weight issues, Reference other weight-related comorbidities, and Encourage a plan of action for weight loss [SERRE]). This has been performed since 2014 for patients presenting to the first author's neurosurgical spine clinic with nonsurgical back pain and body mass index (BMI) over 35. Results: The average BMI was 50.7. Fifty-five percent of patients had additional weight-related comorbidities. After SERRE intervention, 82% of patients were open to weight loss interventions. However, only 22% of patients went on to follow-up with a formal weight management program and only 9% of patients went on to have a documented weight loss. The lack of success was largely attributed to social issues and severe medical comorbidities within the specific population. Conclusions: Incorporation of patient education regarding the relationship of weight loss to back pain and other weight-related comorbidities is well received in a rural specialist consultation setting. Improved communication with primary care physicians regarding this message and further supportive actions may improve follow-through, and therefore success of ultimate weight loss interventions