bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy and exergy analyses of LiBr/H2O absorption cooling system having recto-trapezoidal profile absorber plate
Authors: Roy Rahul , Kundu Balaram
Published: September 2020

This paper develops a theoretical model for energy and exergy analyses of a solar-powered Lithium-water absorption refrigeration system using a recto-trapezoidal flat plate solar collector. The effect of collector fluid inlet temperature is to examine the overall performance of the solar collector and the vapour absorption system for a wide range of design variables. The parameters computed are energy and exergy efficiencies of the solar collector plate, coefficient of performance, cooling efficiency, exergy destruction rates, thermal exergy loss rates, irreversibility, and exergetic efficiency of the absorption refrigeration cycle. The simulation results indicate that there exists an optimum inlet temperature of collector fluid for the maximum system coefficient of performance and exergetic efficiency. When the cooling system runs at this temperature, the absorber plate volume attains a minimum value. Furthermore, the performance results are significantly better when a higher absorber plate thickness parameter is for the recto-trapezoidal profile. Finally, a comparative study analyzes the collector performance parameters of an absorber plate having rectangular, triangular, or trapezoidal profile by selecting their respective parameters of geometries. When an additional constraint imposes on the plate volume, it found that using a recto-trapezoidal profile instead of a rectangular profile saves at least 30% or more collector material, and also it may have better performance than a triangular or trapezoidal profile.
Censorship: What we’re trying to say…Drafting the IFLA Statement on Censorship
Authors: Roe Brent
Published: September 2020

On 25 August 2019, the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) endorsed and published a new IFLA Statement on Censorship. The statement had been drafted by the IFLA Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression (FAIFE) Advisory Committee over the course of the previous year. The present article describes the process of creating the statement, highlighting several questions that the committee had to consider along the way. For example, in choosing a definition of censorship, the committee decided to create one that was conceptually limited and linguistically neutral (in the sense of not simply borrowing the existing definition of a national association). As well, the committee needed to explain why censorship was problematic, essentially proposing that it offends against the library principle of equity of access to information. The committee also had to consider how to account for the apparent acceptability in most societies of some forms of censorship, in spite of the generally problematic nature of censorship, and proposed that, as suggested by the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 29, some limitations on liberties may be permissible for the general welfare of society – though not to the extent that the general concept of FAIFE is significantly compromised.
Anomaly detection based on multivariate data for the aircraft hydraulic system
Authors: Yan Hongsheng , Sun Jianzhong , Zuo Hongfu
Published: September 2020

It is almost impossible to detect the health status of the aircraft hydraulic system via a single variable, because of the complexity and the coupling relationship between components of the system. To serve the purpose, a novel anomaly detection method considering multivariate monitoring data is proposed in this article. The unsupervised auto-encoder model with the long short-term memory layers is used to reconstruct multivariate time series data, and a new comprehensive decision-making index based on two conventional ones is proposed to measure the difference between the observation and the reconstruction. Then, the health threshold of the decision-making index can be calculated by the kernel density estimation. The flight data are divided into several samples, and the anomaly detection of each sample is determined by the specific rule. The healthy status of each flight is determined by voting based on the detection results of all samples included in the flight. The performance of the proposed method is validated on the real continuous monitoring data, and the results confirm that the proposed model overcomes the problems of multistage and multivariate parameters in the anomaly detection of the aircraft system and improves the detection efficiency.
‘More extraordinary than mundane … ’ A phenomenological analysis of the experiences of individuals living with CLE and their taking care in the sun
Authors: McGarry Bláithín , O'Kane Donal , McCourt Collette , Gormley Gerard J
Published: September 2020

Introduction

CLE is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune condition of which photosensitivity is a major symptom. Individuals living with CLE are advised to practice photoprotection. Despite the benefits for disease control, many individuals living with CLE do not practice optimal photoprotection. The aim of this study was to gain a deep insight into the lived experiences of individuals with CLE and their photoprotective practices.

Methods

A qualitative study approach was conducted, using Hermeneutic phenomenology. Individuals living with CLE were recruited and interviewed. Rich pictures were used to enrich the interviews. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using Template Analysis.

Results

Analysis revealed four themes: ‘Much more than just a photosensitive skin condition’, ‘The impact of sun on CLE and social dynamics’, ‘Drifting to the sun: personal transitions and social norms’ and ‘Taking care in the sun: easier said than done’.

Discussion and conclusion

This study provides a nuanced insight into the lived experiences of individuals with CLE and their photoprotective practices. Taking care in the sun is not a simplistic process. Beyond the biomedical model of illness, the social impact that CLE has on individuals has a dominant influence on their photoprotective behaviours. Such insights could help healthcare professionals tailor photoprotective advice.
“The Food Matches the Mood”: Experiences of Eating Disorders in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: McAulay Claire , Dawson Lisa , Mond Jonathan , Outhred Tim , Touyz Stephen
Published: September 2020

Approximately 33% of those with bipolar disorder (BD) have a comorbid eating disorder (ED). However, the trajectory of these conditions has received little research attention. Nine participants who met criteria for BD and an ED participated in qualitative interviews exploring experiences of illness onset, the interaction of these conditions, and service provision. Almost all participants in the sample reported minimal to no screening of ED problems, despite their health professionals’ frequent discussion of obesity. Findings suggested that ED features were diverse and evolved over time. Mania and depression were connected to ED features such as overeating and restricting, but this differed between and within participants. Most participants disclosed historic trauma which they considered central to their mental health concerns. This clinical group appears to be underserviced. Clinicians and researchers should routinely screen for ED features when treating and diagnosing BD to inform their physical and mental health interventions.
Prevalence of Extrapyramidal Symptoms in Cancer Patients Referred to Palliative Care: A Multicenter Observational Study (JORTC PAL12)
Authors: Ishiki Hiroto , Hamano Jun , Nagaoka Hiroka , Matsuda Yoshinobu , Tokoro Akihiro , Matsuoka Hiromichi , Izumi Hiroaki , Sakashita Akihiro , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Oyamada Shunsuke , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Iwase Satoru
Published: September 2020

Background:

Neuroleptics are commonly used in palliative care settings. However, adverse events of neuroleptics, known as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs), might be overlooked in clinical practice. We conducted this study to explore the prevalence of EPSs in palliative care setting.

Methods:

This multicenter, prospective, observational study included patients who 1) were referred to either a specialist palliative care team or a palliative care unit, 2) had a diagnosis of cancer, and 3) were ≥20 years of age. We investigated the prevalence of EPSs and medications used. The primary outcome was the overall Drug-Induced Extrapyramidal Symptom Scale (DIEPSS) score.

Results:

Between November 2015 and October 2016, 149 patients from 5 centers in Japan were enrolled. The median age was 67 years (range: 21–88 years) and the study population included 81 men (54.4%). The cancer types included lung (55 patients, 36.9%), upper gastrointestinal tract (5, 3.3%), hepatobiliary (19, 12.8%); breast (12, 8.1%); head and neck (10, 6.7%), gynecologic (10, 6.7%), genitourinary (10, 6.7%), and others (28, 18.8%). The median Karnofsky performance status was 60 (20–100). Most patients (86.6%) did not experience delirium. Thirty-nine (26.2%) patients received one or more EPS-inducing medications. EPSs occurred in 4 (2.7%) patients with a cutoff score of 5 points for 5 parkinsonism items in DIEPSS.

Conclusion:

A lower frequency (<3%) of patients than expected in this population had EPSs. Therefore, we concluded that an interventional study is not feasible. However, medications that cause EPSs are often used in palliative care; therefore, a longitudinal study is warranted.

Trial registration:

This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) (UMIN000019810) on 16, November, 2015.
Information and Support Needs of Parents With Premature Infants: An Integrative Review
Authors: Davis-Strauss Susan L. , Johnson Ensa , Lubbe Welma
Published: September 2020

International research, while mostly conducted in high-income countries, repeatedly states that parents of premature infants have increased needs and require additional information and varied support channels after the infant’s initial discharge from hospital. However, the perceived self-reported needs of parents concerned with the caregiving of premature infants during the initial time period at home after discharge are not well known. This integrative review explores all extant literature that embodies self-reported or parent-quoted perceptions, experiences, and parent testimonials related to post-discharge infant caregiving information and support needs published from January 1990 to April 2019. Generated findings from the review that reveal parents, regardless of country, consistently reported unmet information and support needs, coupled with a lack of adequate community-based and health care professional support. Current gaps in literature are identified and recommendations for future research are also addressed.
Teaching Explicit Social-Emotional Skills With Contextual Supports for Students With Intensive Intervention Needs
Authors: Bierman Karen L. , Sanders Michael T.
Published: September 2020

Social-cognitive and emotional factors as well as behavior problems contribute to the social difficulties experienced by many students with or at high risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBDs). The way that teachers and peers treat and respond to these students can either mitigate or exacerbate their challenges in establishing and maintaining positive social relationships and adjusting adaptively to the school context. Managing behavior alone does not address the self-regulatory skills deficits that contribute to social maladjustment, nor does it create socializing contexts that can support self-regulatory skill development. This article reviews research on neurodevelopmental processes and contextual constraints that contribute to the social-emotional difficulties of students with or at high risk for EBD. Implications for intervention design are explored, with a focus on the need for more consistent use of tiered social-emotional learning programs in schools to promote the self-regulation skills and social competence of vulnerable students with or at risk of EBDs. The authors also highlight the need for future research to enhance capacity to support tiered systems of intervention in schools and tailor them effectively to meet the varied needs of these students.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Exercise on Metabolic Syndrome Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alizaei Yousefabadi Heidar , Niyazi Arghavan , Alaee Sahar , Fathi Mehrdad , Mohammad Rahimi Gholam Rasul
Published: September 2020

Background:

Increments in inflammatory indicators and low levels of physical activity are correlated to the expansion of the metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to establish if exercise training ameliorates inflammatory status in MetS patients.

Data sources:

PubMed, CINAHL, and Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases and reference lists of included studies were searched.

Study selection:

Twenty randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise-training impact on inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL) 6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-18) with concurrent control groups were included in this analysis.

Results:

Results demonstrated an overall significant decrease in serum levels of TNF-α (mean difference (MD): −1.21 pg/ml; 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.77, −0.66), CRP (MD: −0.52 mg/l; 95% CI: −0.79, −0.25), IL-8 (MD: −1.31 pg/ml; 95% CI: −2.57, −0.06), and a significant increase in IL-10 (MD: 0.48 pg/ml; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.86). But exercise training did not change the level of IL-6 (MD: −0.69 pg/ml; 95% CI: −1.53, 0.14) and IL-18 (MD: −53.01 pg/ml; 95% CI: −166.64, 60.62).

Conclusion:

Exercise training improves TNF-α, CRP, IL-8, and IL-10 levels in patients with MetS. For some variables, isolated aerobic exercise, and combined aerobic and resistance exercise appears to be optimal. Future research is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying exercise training’s effect on this population’s inflammatory markers. More studies are required to confirm these findings.
Restoring arteriovenous access: Pilot study using a scoring balloon in 50 patients
Authors: Ross JR
Published: September 2020

Background:

Arteriovenous access failure is most often due to the development of neointimal hyperplastic stenoses. Balloon angioplasty remains standard of care for endovascular treatment of stenoses obstructing blood flow in hemodialysis fistulas and grafts. Scoring balloon technologies have been developed to disrupt the atheromatous plaque and have shown to be safe and effective for treating stenosis in the hemodialysis access circuit. However, improvement in patency has yet to be established.

Methods:

This prospective, single-arm study included 50 patients with stenosed hemodialysis fistula/grafts treated with the AngioSculpt® scoring balloon (Philips) and followed for 6 months. The primary endpoint was target lesion primary patency at 2 and 6 months defined as freedom from re-intervention.

Results:

Treatment with the scoring balloon resulted in a reduction in stenosis from 78% ± 13.36% to 7.2% ± 7.57% (mean ± standard deviation). Scoring balloon inflation pressures averaged 11.4 atm; no slippage/dissections occurred. After 2 months, 10% of patients required re-intervention. At 6 months, 19% of patients required re-intervention. The 6-month freedom from re-intervention rate was higher for patients with stenosed fistulas (83.3%) compared to patients with stenosed grafts (71.4%). Six-month patency rates were highest for patients with no or one previous intervention (91.6% and 90.0%, respectively); patients with two to five preceding interventions had a 6-month patency rate of 80%, and those with more than five previous interventions had a 50% 6-month patency rate.

Conclusion:

Results from this pilot study suggest that the AngioSculpt scoring balloon may be a viable treatment option for stenosed arteriovenous fistula/graft access.
Role of Locoregional Treatment in De Novo Stage IV Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Joanna S , Toktas Osman , Soran Atilla
Published: September 2020

It is estimated that approximately 154000 women in the United States have stage IV breast cancer (BC). A subset of this group has metastatic disease at presentation, known as de novo stage IV disease. De novo stage IV BC accounts for approximately 6% of all BC diagnoses in the United States. Traditionally, stage IV BC patients are treated with primary systemic therapy with a palliative intent reserving possible locoregional treatment (LRT) as last resort. There has been a lot of interest in the role of LRT in de novo stage IV BC for the past decade with mixed conclusions. Although this review is not intended to be a comprehensive overview of all literature regarding this topic to date, we will review the recent findings in literature focusing on the studies with larger sample sizes to investigate the role of LRT in de novo stage IV BC.
Vaccinations in patients with multiple sclerosis: A Delphi consensus statement
Authors: Riva Agostino , Barcella Valeria , Benatti Simone V , Capobianco Marco , Capra Ruggero , Cinque Paola , Comi Giancarlo , Fasolo Maria Michela , Franzetti Fabio , Galli Massimo , Gerevini Simonetta , Meroni Luca , Origoni Massimo , Prosperini Luca , Puoti Massimo , Scarpazza Cristina , Tortorella Carla , Zaffaroni Mauro , Moiola Lucia
Published: September 2020

Background:

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at increased risk of infection. Vaccination can mitigate these risks but only if safe and effective in MS patients, including those taking disease-modifying drugs.

Methods:

A modified Delphi consensus process (October 2017–June 2018) was used to develop clinically relevant recommendations for making decisions about vaccinations in patients with MS. A series of statements and recommendations regarding the efficacy, safety and timing of vaccine administration in patients with MS were generated in April 2018 by a panel of experts based on a review of the published literature performed in October 2017.

Results:

Recommendations include the need for an ‘infectious diseases card’ of each patient’s infectious and immunisation history at diagnosis in order to exclude and eventually treat latent infections. We suggest the implementation of the locally recommended vaccinations, if possible at MS diagnosis, otherwise with vaccination timing tailored to the planned/current MS treatment, and yearly administration of the seasonal influenza vaccine regardless of the treatment received.

Conclusion:

Patients with MS should be vaccinated with careful consideration of risks and benefits. However, there is an urgent need for more research into vaccinations in patients with MS to guide evidence-based decision making.
Being the minority hurts or helps? A moderated mediation model of group membership, cross-cultural acceptance, and school adjustment
Authors: Shum Kathy Kar-man , Chan Winnie Wai Lan , Tsoi Emily Wing See , Lam Shui-fong
Published: September 2020

This study examined the relations between majority/minority group membership and cross-cultural acceptance, and their linkage to school adjustment. A total of 2,016 students (ethnic minority [EM]: 51%; boys: 50%) at Grades 2, 5, 8, and 11 from 15 schools in Hong Kong participated in the study. These schools were either of low (below 30%) or high EM concentrations (over 70%). EM students at low-EM-concentration schools and Chinese students at high-EM-concentration schools both belonged to the minority groups in their respective schools. Moderated mediation analyses showed that being the numerical minority in school predicted higher school engagement and more positive affect. The associations between numerical group membership and adjustment outcomes were each mediated by the intention to accept outgroup members. In other words, higher cross-cultural acceptance was found among students who were themselves the minority in school, and stronger outgroup acceptance, in turn, predicted better adjustment.
A co-simulation method for the analysis of train running performance on a sea-crossing bridge in crosswind environment
Authors: Liu Pin , Cui Shengai , Guo Chen , Cui Enqi , Zhu Bing
Published: September 2020

When a train crosses a bridge in a crosswind environment, the coupled vibration problem of the train-bridge system becomes prominent, and train safety and riding comfort are difficult to guarantee. Therefore, using the Pingtan Strait bridge in China as a case study, a co-simulation platform for the train-bridge system coupled vibration in crosswind environments was established based on computational fluid dynamics, finite element method, and the multi-body system dynamics. Based on this platform, dynamic response analysis of the train-bridge system was performed at different wind and train speeds. The results indicate that the dynamic response of the train and bridge under double-line conditions is greater than that under single-line conditions. With an increase in wind speed, the mid-span vertical displacement of the bridge changes little, while the lateral displacement increases significantly. Meanwhile, with increasing wind and train speeds, the train dynamic indexes obviously increase. Moreover, the dynamic index of the head car is the largest among all the train sections.
An empirical study investigating the user acceptance of a virtual conversational agent interface for family health history collection among the geriatric population
Authors: Ponathil Amal , Ozkan Firat , Bertrand Jeffrey , Agnisarman Sruthy , Narasimha Shraddhaa , Welch Brandon , Chalil Madathil Kapil
Published: September 2020

Critical for the early diagnosis of genetic disorders, a Family Health History (FHx) can be collected in several ways including electronic FHx tools, which aid easy editing and sharing by linking with other information management portals. The user acceptance of such systems is critical, especially among older adults experiencing motor and cognitive issues. This study investigated two types of FHx interfaces, standard and Virtual Conversational Agent (VCA), using 30 young (between 18 and 30) and 24 older participants (over 60). Workload, usability and performance data were collected. Even though participants required less time to complete three of five tasks on the standard interface, the VCA interface performed better in terms of subjective workload and usability. Additionally, 67% of the older adults preferred the VCA interface since it provided context-based guidance during the data collection process. The results from this study have implications for the use of virtual assistants in FHx and other areas of data collection.
How mainstream and alternative media shape public attitudes toward social change: Evidence from two panel studies during Malaysia’s democratic transition
Authors: Selvanathan Hema Preya , Lickel Brian
Published: September 2020

Mainstream and alternative media often frame key political events in divergent ways. The present research examined how mainstream and alternative media consumption was linked to public support for Bersih, a pro-democracy movement in Malaysia. We conducted a two-wave panel study before and after the Bersih 5 protests demanding electoral reform ( N = 422), and another two-wave panel study before and after the 14th General Elections which were historic in unseating the ruling government ( N = 386). Against mounting corruption, the two events were important to Malaysia’s democratic transition. Across both studies, alternative media consumption was linked to more positive attitudes toward the Bersih movement, especially among people who were strong supporters of the previous ruling government. Mainstream media did not play a consistent role in shaping attitudes toward the movement, nor was there evidence of backlash among government supporters. Thus, alternative media may have legitimized the cause for social change.
When news media and social media meet: How Facebook users reacted to news stories about a supermarket plastic bag ban
Authors: Borg Kim , Lindsay Jo , Curtis Jim
Published: September 2020

Plastic reduction policies are important for addressing plastic pollution however, the success of such policies relies on establishing new social norms. This study advances knowledge on public expressions of social norms by exploring the interplay between news media and social media in response to a new environmental policy. It is the first study to explore this phenomenon with the explicit aim of identifying and comparing information related to social norms. A content analysis was conducted in relation to the 2018 Australian supermarket plastic bag ban. Results demonstrate how social norms related to a new policy are created, reinforced and expressed in the contemporary media landscape. The interaction between news media and social media offers a window into public expressions of social norms, where social media provides a platform for civic participation in a public and real-time environment in which users can challenge the dominant narrative presented by the news media.
Microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity of the solid-state recycled pure copper machining chips
Authors: Behnagh Reza Abdi , Abdollahi Hadi , Pour Mohsen Agha Mohammad , Shahbazi Bahman
Published: September 2020

The demand for new methods to reduce CO2 emission by reusing metal scrap has increased recently. This study deals with a new recycling technique utilizing a friction stir consolidation process. In this work, copper was directly recycled from machining chips in the solid-state form without any remelting to reduce environmental pollution and to increase the economic value of the waste material. During the process, copper chips were loaded into the chamber; then, a rotating tool was plunged into the chips at a specified rotational speed and feed rate. Due to the huge amount of heat generated, the softened material was compressed and synthesized to form a consolidated part. Microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity of the finished samples were evaluated and compared with as-received material. Also, a numerical model was implemented to predict the evolution of the main field variables, including temperature, density, and strain.
Social workers’ constructions of child risk and protection in the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community
Authors: Gemara Netanel , Nadan Yochay , Roer-Strier Dorit
Published: September 2020

Social workers’ perceptions regarding child risk and protection tend to rely on universal criteria that may differ from the perceptions of minority groups. The Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Israel is a strictly religious, segregated, close-knit community with idiosyncratic values and norms that differ from those of social workers in the country. This qualitative study aimed to explore social workers’ perceptions and ascribed meanings of child risk and protection in Israel’s Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. To this end, 30 in-depth interviews were conducted with social workers working with this community.

Findings

The study identified four distinct primary areas of risk and protection for children in Israel’s Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community: spirituality, collectivism, segregation, and hierarchy. Each of these areas encompasses factors of both protection and risk.

Applications

The study’s findings highlight the gaps between the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community and social workers who adopt Western universal views regarding child risk and protection. This article advocates a context-informed approach when dealing with minority communities. Adopting such an approach can contribute to better cooperation between professionals and their clients from minority groups and advance the well-being of children.
Measuring parenting capacity for disabled children using a child protection assessment
Authors: Flynn Susan
Published: September 2020

Childhood disability can heighten risk of neglect and abuse and may also impinge upon the parenting task. Even so, a gross deficiency of published literature on social work parenting capacity assessment for disabled children is evident. This paper provides a critical commentary on approaches to assessments of the capacity of parents of disabled children. International review of literature on this subject matter is enacted across three themes.

Findings

Themes refer to limitations to the uptake of disability-specific parenting assessment tools, use of existing generic frameworks and supplementation of generic frameworks, respectively. Throughout, a composite conceptual frame is taken up, entailing the conventions of a seminal social model of disability, extended through an affirmative non-tragedy lens. The intention is to contest articulations of disability grounded in tragedy and melancholia, otherwise instantiated by links between disability with child maltreatment in this paper.

Applications

Application of insights from this paper within professional social work practice can enhance evidence-informed parenting capacity assessment.
The voices of parents and children in foster care
Authors: Urrea Monclús Aida , Mateos Inchaurrondo Ainoa , Fernández-Rodrigo Laura , Balsells Bailón M Àngels
Published: September 2020

This article presents the results of a qualitative study whose objective was to collect information on the perceptions of changes in parents and their children who are in the Spanish foster care system after completing a positive parenting programme.

Findings

The participants in the focus groups included 66 parents and 57 children. Triangulation of the voices of all protagonists identified findings that suggest the need for changes regarding understanding foster care measures and the process of family resilience; the quality and content of visits and contact between parents and children; and the role of professionals involved in the case.

Applications

The findings indicate the efficacy of the intervention proposed in the ‘Walking family’ programme with the direct and active involvement of children as they become a driver of change for the parents. However, when this does not occur, professionals must work from a critical approach and should provide a realistic view of the family to children.
Optimization of diesel fuel injection strategies through applications of cooperative particle swarm optimization and artificial bee colony algorithms
Authors: Ogren Ryan M , Kong Song-Charng
Published: September 2020

New engine hardware and injection strategies allow modern engines to meet stringent emissions regulations but can require extensive engine testing to identify optimum operating points. Swarm intelligence algorithms, which do not require knowledge of the search space gradient, can provide a short cut in finding optimum operating parameters in reduced experimental time than a traditional design of experiments study. In this paper, a modified artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm and a cooperative particle swarm optimization (CPSO) algorithm are applied to triple and quadruple injection routines. The optimization was applied directly to the operation of a four-cylinder turbocharged production diesel engine operating at a high exhaust gas recirculation rate and medium load. Six and eight variable optimizations were carried out for triple and quadruple injection schedules, respectively. In experimental testing, the cooperative particle swarm optimizer significantly reduced soot and carbon monoxide emissions in only 84 engine tests when using a pilot-pilot-main-post schedule. The modified artificial bee colony algorithm took 176 engine tests to optimize a pilot-main-post triple-injection schedule and was not applied to the four-injection routine.
A Bayesian fusion method for composite damage identification using Lamb wave
Authors: Huo Haode , He Jingjing , Guan Xuefei
Published: September 2020

This study presents a novel method for composite damage identification using Lamb wave. A probabilistic integration of the elliptical loci method and the RAPID (reconstruction algorithm for probabilistic inspection of defects) in a Bayesian framework is proposed. The proposed method allows for the incorporation of multiple damage sensitive features in a rational manner to improve the reliability and robustness for a given array of sensors. Numerical studies are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method and to compare its accuracy with existing methods. Experimental investigation using a realistic composite plate is made to further validate the proposed method. The influence of damage location and the number of participating sensors on the performance of the proposed method is discussed. Results indicate that the proposed method yields more accurate and reliable results comparing with existing methods.
The breadth of business model reconfiguration and firm performance
Authors: Desyllas Panos , Salter Ammon , Alexy Oliver
Published: September 2020

Looking at business models as systems of interdependent elements, we study how the breadth of an incumbent firm’s business model reconfiguration influences its performance. Drawing on the metaphor of firms searching on a performance landscape, we argue that the relationship between business model reconfiguration breadth and performance should form an inverted U-shape. While firms can gain from increasing business model reconfiguration breadth, these benefits need to be traded-off against the increasing complexity of its associated changes. We further predict that this inverted U-shape will flip for highly performing firms while being amplified for firms heavily active in innovation. Using data from an original survey of knowledge-intensive business services firms, we find that, on average, business model reconfiguration has little effect on performance. However, U-shaped effects clearly emerge when accounting for the effects of past performance and innovative activity. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the conditional nature of the advantages stemming from business model reconfiguration.
Virtual reality rendering methods for training deep learning, analysing landscapes, and preventing virtual reality sickness
Authors: Fukuda Tomohiro , Novak Marcos , Fujii Hiroyuki , Pencreach Yoann
Published: September 2020

Virtual reality (VR) has been proposed for various purposes such as design studies, presentation, simulation and communication in the field of computer-aided architectural design. This paper explores new roles for VR; in particular, we propose rendering methods that consist of post-processing rendering, segmentation rendering and shadow-casting rendering for more-versatile approaches in the use of data. We focus on the creation of a dataset of annotated images, composed of paired foreground-background and semantic-relevant images, in addition to traditional immersive rendering for training deep learning neural networks and analysing landscapes. We also develop a camera velocity rendering method using a customised segmentation rendering technique that calculates the linear and angular velocities of the virtual camera within the VR space at each frame and overlays a colour on the screen according to the velocity value. Using this velocity information, developers of VR applications can improve the animation path within the VR space and prevent VR sickness. We successfully applied the developed methods to urban design and a design project for a building complex. In conclusion, the proposed method was evaluated to be both feasible and effective.
Mechanical, chemical and sound absorption properties of glass/kenaf/waste tea leaf fiber-reinforced hybrid epoxy composites
Authors: Prabhu L , Krishnaraj V , Gokulkumar S , Sathish S , Sanjay MR , Siengchin S
Published: September 2020

This work aims to investigate the mechanical and sound absorption characteristics of industrial waste tea leaf fiber (WTLF), kenaf and E-glass fiber–reinforced hybrid epoxy composites through experimental studies. The WTLF and kenaf fibers were initially treated with 5% sodium hydroxide. Hybrid composites were fabricated by compression molding technique with a composition of 40 wt.% fiber and 60 wt.% matrix. The fabricated hybrid composites were subjected to mechanical and sound absorption studies as per ASTM standards. Results revealed better mechanical properties in the composites with 25 wt.% kenaf and 5 wt.% WTLF, whereas sound absorption characteristics were better for composites containing 25 wt.% WTLF and 5 wt.% kenaf fiber. The surface morphology of the fractured specimens such as fiber pullout and matrix crack was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Spectrum investigation of alkali-treated hybrid composites showed excellent interfacial bonding between the polymer and fiber compared to the untreated fiber.
Social Media and Youth Peacebuilding Agency: A Case From Muslim Mindanao
Authors: Ragandang Primitivo Cabanes
Published: September 2020

This article determines how social media, along with institutional affiliation and first-hand experiences of violence, influence youth peacebuilding agency. It utilises the case of a group of university students from Muslim Mindanao in the Philippines who implemented a project that aimed to counter Islamophobia-linked hate speech online. Interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation were employed during fieldwork. The main argument is that the youth peacebuilding agency does not necessarily rest upon traditional peacebuilding structures. Rather, it lays in structural elements familiar to the youth. Access and familiarity of the youths to social media led them to use it as the platform of the project. The conceptualisation of the project was influenced by their first-hand experience of violence and Mindanao conflict. As university students, their institutional affiliation with the academia had supplemented in meeting the resources they needed. Time constraints and family relationships posed a challenge amongst the youth. The empirical findings of this research hope to contribute to studies on youth agency, peacebuilding, and development in post-conflict contexts.
The Effect of One Session Split-Belt Treadmill Training on Gait Adaptation in People With Parkinson’s Disease and Freezing of Gait
Authors: Seuthe Jana , D’Cruz Nicholas , Ginis Pieter , Becktepe Jos Steffen , Weisser Burkhard , Nieuwboer Alice , Schlenstedt Christian
Published: September 2020

Background

Freezing of gait (FOG) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is associated with gait asymmetry and switching difficulty. A split-belt treadmill may potentially address those deficits.

Objective

To investigate the immediate and retention effects of one-session split-belt treadmill training (SBT) in contrast to regular tied-belt treadmill training (TBT) on gait asymmetry and adaptation in people with PD and FOG (PD + FOG) and healthy controls (HC). Additionally, to investigate differential effects of 3 SBT protocols and compare different gait adaptation outcomes.

Methods

PD + FOG (n = 45) and HC (n = 36) were randomized to 1 of 3 SBT groups (belt speeds’ ratio 0.75:1; 0.5:1 or changing ratios) or TBT group. Participants were tested at Pre, Post, and Retention after one treadmill training session. Gait asymmetry was measured during a standardized adaptation test on the split-belt treadmill

Results

SBT proved beneficial for gait adaptation in PD + FOG and HC ( P < .0001); however, HC improved more. SBT with changing ratios demonstrated significant effects on gait adaptation from Pre to Post in PD + FOG, supported by strong effect sizes ( d = 1.14) and improvements being retained for 24 hours. Mean step length asymmetry during initial exposure was lower in HC compared with PD + FOG ( P = .035) and differentiated best between the groups.

Conclusions

PD + FOG improved gait adaptation after a single SBT session although effects were smaller than in HC. SBT with changing ratios was the most effective to ameliorate gait adaptation in PD + FOG. These promising results warrant future study on whether long-term SBT strengthens adaptation in PD + FOG and has potential to induce a better resilience to FOG. Clinical trial ID: NCT03725215.
Thymic Neuroendocrine Tumors and Thymic Carcinoma: Demographics, Treatment, and Survival
Authors: Bakhos Charles T. , Salami Aitua C. , Kaiser Larry R. , Petrov Roman V. , Abbas Abbas E.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Although rare, thymic neuroendocrine tumors (TNET) and thymic carcinoma (TC) are the most common thymic nonthymomatous malignancies; their survival outcomes have not been thoroughly compared. We analyzed the clinical, treatment, and survival characteristics of TNET and TC.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with a histologic diagnosis of TNET or TC in the National Cancer Database (2004 to 2015). Exclusion criteria were age <18 years and unstaged tumors. Descriptive statistics, survival analysis, and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used in elucidating associations.

Results

One thousand four hundred eighty-nine patients were included (TNET: 19.8%). Patients with TNET were significantly younger (57 vs 62.5 years), more likely to be male (70.5% vs 60.0%), and have localized tumors (45.4% vs 32.3%). Patients with TC more frequently underwent chemotherapy (56.1% vs 34.9%), radiation (56.9% vs 39.3%), and trimodality therapy (21.3% vs 11.5%), while resection rates were similar (55.3% vs 58.3%). The 5-year survival was 62% for TNET and 52% for TC, but comparable following multivariable adjustment. Age, stage, and Charlson–Deyo score were negative predictors of survival, while surgery and trimodality therapy were positive predictors. On subanalysis, adjuvant radiation therapy (ART) improved the survival of margin-positive tumors and was an independent predictor of survival for both tumor types (hazard ratio = 0.5).

Conclusions

Our analysis of the largest series of TNET and TC showed a survival rate surpassing 50% at 5 years. These outcomes seem to be influenced by surgical resection and ART. Standardized staging and surgical protocols including lymph node sampling are still warranted to better elucidate the treatment algorithm of these tumors.
Oxidative Stress is Associated with Reduced Sperm Motility in Normal Semen
Authors: Kurkowska Wiktoria , Bogacz Agnieszka , Janiszewska Marta , Gabryś Ewa , Tiszler Michał , Bellanti Francesco , Kasperczyk Sławomir , Machoń-Grecka Anna , Dobrakowski Michał , Kasperczyk Aleksandra
Published: September 2020

Infertility is among the most serious medical problems worldwide. Male factors contribute to 40%–50% of all infertility cases, and approximately 7% of men worldwide are affected by infertility. Spermatozoa are extremely vulnerable to oxidative insult. Oxidative stress results in axonemal damage and increased midpiece sperm morphological defects, which lead to reduced sperm motility. The aim of the study is to evaluate the association between sperm motility and the levels of selected antioxidants, cytokines, and markers of oxidative damage in the seminal plasma.

The study group included 107 healthy males, who were split into two subgroups based on the percentage of motile spermatozoa after 1 hr: low motility (LM, n = 51) and high motility (HM, n = 56).

The glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity was 52% lower in the LM group compared to that in the HM group. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was 12% higher in the LM group compared to that in the HM group. Similarly, the median values of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were higher in the LM group than those in the HM group. Results of the present study revealed that the percentage of motile spermatozoa after 1 hr correlated positively with the levels of IL-1β, IL-10, IL-12, and TNFα.

The lower motility of spermatozoa in healthy men is associated with a decreased activity of G6PD and increased levels of cytokines, which may be related to increased oxidative stress in seminal plasma that manifests as an increased level of MDA.
Return to Activities After Simultaneous Bilateral Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release
Authors: Hein Rachel E. , Hollins Andrew W. , Fletcher Amanda N. , Ruch David S. , Richard Marc J. , Mithani Suhail K.
Published: September 2020

Background

Approximately 56% of patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome present with bilateral symptoms; however, few studies have investigated bilateral simultaneous endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) and postoperative effect on return to activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the length of recovery in patients who received bilateral simultaneous ECTR, including pain medication requirements, return to activities of daily living, return to work, and return to recreational activities.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent bilateral ECTR by a single hand fellowship–trained surgeon from 2013 to 2019. Demographic, operative, and clinical outcomes were collected via chart review and a telephone interview. Student t tests and χ2 tests were conducted for analysis.

Results

Eighty patients were included in the study; 40 were successfully contacted for telephone interview follow-up. Patients reported an average of 2 days of use of postoperative narcotic pain medication and an average of 5, 7, and 19 days of return to activities of daily living, work, and recreational activities, respectively. Female patients reported more days of narcotic pain medications (1 day vs 3 days, P = .0483) and an average of longer return to work than men (9 days vs 5 days, P = .0477). Manual laborers reported longer return to work (9 days vs 5 days, P = .0500). Older patients (aged >65 years) reported longer return to recreational activities (39 days vs 11 days, P = .0189).

Conclusions

Simultaneous bilateral ECTR is a successful procedure with shorter recovery times than reported previously. Female patients, manual laborers, and older patients experience a longer recovery and should be counseled appropriately.
Closed Reduction and Immobilization of Pediatric Fifth Metacarpal Neck Fractures
Authors: Lee Stella J. , Merrison Hannah , Williams Kathryn A. , Vuillermin Carley B. , Bauer Andrea S.
Published: September 2020

Background

There is no clear consensus for the criteria for closed treatment of metacarpal neck fractures. Our objective was to determine whether closed reduction of pediatric fifth metacarpal neck fractures results in a clinically meaningful improvement in radiographic angulation.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients with fifth metacarpal neck fractures treated with closed reduction. Radiographs were examined for sagittal fracture angulation measured post-reduction, 2 to 14 days post-reduction, and 21 to 35 days post-reduction. We compared the angulation for open versus closed physes, initial fracture angulation greater than or less than 50°, and immobilization in extension versus intrinsic-plus position.

Results

Fifty-four subjects were included with an average age of 14.8 years at the time of injury and a mean initial fracture angulation of 42.7°. The improvement in fracture angulation was 8.3° (90% confidence interval [CI], 5.9-10.7) on post-reduction radiographs, 8.5° (90% CI, 6.1-10.9) at 2 to 14 days post-reduction, and 4.3° (90% CI, 1.4-7.2) at 21 to 35 days post-reduction. Subgroup analysis showed that patients with injury angle greater than or equal to 50° had significantly higher mean reductions than those with injury angle less than 50°. In this group, angulation improved 15.6° (90% CI, 8.5-22.7) post-reduction, 15.1° (90% CI, 10.1-20.1) at 2 to 14 days post-reduction, and 16.5° (90% CI, 10.4-22.6) at 21 to 35 days post-reduction.

Conclusions

Closed reduction of pediatric fifth metacarpal neck fractures with initial fracture angulation less than 50° may not meaningfully improve sagittal alignment. For fractures with initial angulation greater than or equal to 50°, closed reduction resulted in clinically important, statistically significant, and lasting improvements of 16.5°.