bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Orographic Gravity Wave Drag Parameterization Accounting for the Nonhydrostatic Effect in the Weather Research and Forecasting Model: Tests for Short-Range Forecast of Northeast China Cold Vortices
Authors: Li Mingshan , Xu Xin , Teixeira Miguel A. C. , Xue Ming , Xue Haile , Zhu Kefeng , Huang Hong
Published: October 2024

The parameterization of orographic gravity wave drag (OGWD) is essential for accurate numerical weather prediction in regions of complex terrain. Current OGWD schemes assume hydrostatic orographic gravity waves (OGWs) but the parameterized OGWs in fine-resolution models with narrow subgrid-scale orography can be significantly affected by the nonhydrostatic effects (NHE). In our recent work, the OGWD scheme in the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS) was revised by accounting for the NHE on the surface wave momentum flux of upward-propagating OGWs. Herein, the revised OGWD scheme is implemented in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model to evaluate its performance in short-range weather forecast. Two sets of 36-h WRF simulations are conducted for nine Northeast China cold vortices (NECVs) that occurred in the warm season of 2011 using the original and revised OGWD schemes. Results show that the WRF Model tends to underestimate the intensity of the NECVs, producing too high geopotential height. When accounting for the NHE in the OGWD scheme, the NECV intensity biases are significantly reduced. Analyses reveal that the NHE act to weaken the lower-tropospheric OGWD by decreasing the surface wave momentum flux, which strengthens the NECV in the lower troposphere. Consequently, the strengthened low-level cyclonic circulation increases the posttrough cold advection to the southwest of the NECV which in turn enhances the NECV in the mid–upper troposphere with reduced geopotential height. The NHE are found to increase as the model horizontal resolution increases, suggesting greater importance of NHE in the OGWD parameterization of high-resolution numerical models.
Relationships That Matter: Four Perspectives on AI, Work, and Organizations
Authors: Narayan Devika , Shestakofsky Benjamin
Published: October 2024

The past decade has witnessed a surge of interest in how AI will transform work and organizations, presenting scholars with the difficult task of studying emergent technologies. This article advances a relational perspective that emphasizes how firms and workers are situated in, and respond to, extra-organizational pressures and forces. We examine four sets of relationships that can frame scholarly engagement with AI: finance and technology, monopoly and competition, producers and adopters, and high-status and low-status workers. We argue that this perspective illuminates connections between levels of analysis that might otherwise seem unrelated, revealing how AI tools and practices are situated within, and contribute to, broader social, financial, and industrial dynamics.
Study on the folding damage mechanism of SiC fiber braided fabric based on synchrotron radiation CT and finite-element analysis
Authors: Han Shuaikang , Li Qianhe , Hu Wenfeng , Gao Yantao , Lu Zan
Published: October 2024

Silicon carbide (SiC) fiber exhibits high strength, thermal resistance, and chemical stability, but its insufficient flexural strength renders it unsuitable for use in flexible structural materials. In this study, the microstructure evolution and damage mechanisms of SiC fiber braided fabric were investigated at different braiding angles and folding stages using synchrotron micro computed tomography (µ-CT) and finite-element analysis. Results from synchrotron radiation CT scans indicate that, with an increase in the number of folding cycles, both fiber surface fractures and slippage gradually increased, leading to a looser internal structure and diminished fiber continuity. The SiC fiber braided fabric at 37.8° was predominantly influenced by the folding behavior, exhibiting a higher frequency of fiber breakages. Conversely, the 43.1° SiC fiber braided fabric was primarily affected by inter-bundle abrasion, resulting in looser fiber bundles and increased slippage. In the case of the 41.2° SiC fiber braided fabric, under the combined effects of friction and folding, the highest occurrences of fiber slippage and breakages were observed. Finite-element simulation results reveal that the stress at the folding site of the 40° braided fabric was higher than those of the 45° and 50° braided fabrics, confirming the experimental conclusion that the folding resistance of SiC fiber fabrics is poorest at a braiding angle of around 41° to 42°. This research is of significant importance for a deeper understanding of the folding performance and damage behavior of SiC fiber braided fabric, providing valuable insights for further optimizing material design and applications.
Undercover story
Authors: Wade Nicholas J.
Published: October 2024

The covers for Perception and for i-Perception display enigmatic portraits. That for Perception carries a face, the origins of which remain mysterious whereas i-Perception contains a portrait of Gustav Theodor Fechner which hovers around the threshold for detection.
Oxidation behavior of 9Cr-RAFM steel at high temperature
Authors: Qiu Guoxing , Li Jianing , Bai Chong , Yang Yongkun , Cui Yaru , Li Xiaoming
Published: October 2024

The effect of yttrium on the mechanism of oxidation film formation of the 9Cr reduced activation ferritic/martensitic (9Cr-RAFM) steel was investigated. Four alloys yttrium contents ranging from 0 to 0.065% were melted in a vacuum induction furnace and subjected to continuous isothermal oxidation experiments. The alloys were oxidized in air at 600, 700, 800 and 900 °C for 100 h. Oxidation kinetic curves were obtained and analyzed to study the effect of yttrium on the oxidation resistance of the alloys at high temperatures. The oxide films formed on the alloys were observed and analyzed by X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy and electron probe X-ray microanalysis. The results indicated that the oxidation weight gain of the samples varied with the yttrium content, with the highest gain observed in the yttrium-free alloy sample, and the least in those containing 0.065% yttrium. Adding yttrium significantly enhanced the high temperature oxidation resistance of 9Cr-RAFM alloy by promoting the formation of a selective Cr2O3 oxide film. The film improved the adhesion of the oxide layer to the base metal, reduced the oxidation rate, and thereby enhanced the high-temperature oxidation resistance of the alloy.
Effect of different braking conditions on fatigue crack propagation behaviour of train brake disc
Authors: Shen Jiacheng , Lu Chun , He Jiahuan , Mo Jiliang , Zhao Jie , Hou Zhenbo
Published: October 2024

Fatigue damage on the surface of brake discs can seriously affect the train braking safety. In this paper, the effect of various braking conditions on the crack propagation of train brake discs is investigated based on the co-simulation of Abaqus and Franc3D. The relationship of the braking mode, initial speed, braking time and braking force to the stress intensity factor, crack propagation rate, and propagation life is discussed. The findings show that the initial speed is the major factor influencing disc crack propagation during emergency and service braking, while the braking force and time are more important during ramp braking. Besides, the temperature increasing rate and temperature field distribution are significant factors influencing crack propagation. Thus, reasonable design of braking condition parameters can help slow down the crack propagation of brake discs and ensure the safety of braking.
Interactive strategy of shared control vehicle and automated vehicles based on adaptive non-cooperative game
Authors: Xie Wenke , Lu Shaobo , Dai Lingfeng , Jia Ru
Published: October 2024

Considering the complex traffic environment in the future, an interactive strategy between human-machine shared control vehicle (HSCV) and automated vehicles (AVs) based on the adaptive non-cooperative game (NCG) theory is proposed to ensure the safety of vehicles interaction control involving drivers with different characteristics. In HSCV, first, considering the environmental risk potential field (ERPF) and the human-machine conflict coefficient, an adaptive weight distribution method is designed to realize the weight distribution between a driver and an automation system. Subsequently, the steering angle command imposed by a driver is introduced into the game solving process between HSCV and AVs, enabling adaptive dynamic game through weight adjustment. During V2V interaction, based on NCG and distributed model predictive control, a motion planning controller (MOPC) is designed to integrate the optimal solution problem of path planning and tracking control and solve the interaction problem with constraints. Two typical interactive scenarios are used to verify the feasibility of the strategy. The results demonstrate that the interaction strategy considering the different drivers’ operating commands not only realizes the interaction between a driver and an ego vehicle but also realizes the interaction between an ego vehicle and nearby vehicles to ensure the safety of vehicles.
Advanced heat transfer analysis using RSM-BBD for MHD hybrid nanofluid flow over a nonuniform stretching sheet with viscous dissipation
Authors: Thamizhselvi V. , Satya Narayana P.V.
Published: October 2024

The recent studies focus on optimizing conditions to maximize the heat transfer rate while minimizing energy consumption, a key goal for various industries in both production processes and Automotive industry efficiency. Hybrid nanofluids play a crucial role in improving heat transfer phenomena. This study examines the enhanced heat transfer properties of a water-based hybrid nanofluid containing Al2O3 and SiO2 nanoparticles as it flows through a nonlinear stretching sheet in a porous medium. The convective flow is further influenced by a magnetic field and thermal radiation, adding complexity to the flow dynamics. To simplify the analysis, dimensional physical quantities are converted to non-dimensional parameters using appropriate similarity rules. These transformed equations are then numerically solved using the bvp4c function in MATLAB. To achieve optimal heat transfer rates, a robust statistical method known as response surface methodology (RSM) is employed, and validation is performed through an analysis of variance. Graphical representation is used to examine parametric behaviour, and a brief physical description is provided. Key findings include: the hybrid nanofluid shows a 10.61% increase in heat transfer rate compared to the base fluid at R = 0.2; the drag force coefficient for the Al2O3/H2O nanofluid is reduced by 13.98% compared to other hybrid nanofluids; and an increase in the nonlinear stretching sheet parameter improves velocity distribution while reducing temperature distribution. This study can be used in automotive transmission systems to enhance heat dissipation and lubrication, improving the efficiency and durability of the transmission.
Xenogenic Engraftment of Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell–Derived Pancreatic Islet Cells in an Immunosuppressive Diabetic Göttingen Mini-Pig Model
Authors: Yamasaki Midori , Maki Toshiyuki , Mochida Taisuke , Hamada Teruki , Watanabe-Matsumoto Saori , Konagaya Shuhei , Kaneko Manami , Ito Ryo , Ueno Hikaru , Toyoda Taro
Published: October 2024

In the development of cell therapy products, immunocompromised animal models closer in size to humans are valuable for enhancing the translatability of in vivo findings to clinical trials. In the present study, we generated immunocompromised type 1 diabetic Göttingen mini-pig models and demonstrated the engraftment of human-induced pluripotent stem cell–derived pancreatic islet cells (iPICs). We induced hyperglycemia with a concomitant reduction in endogenous C-peptide levels in pigs that underwent thymectomy and splenectomy. After estimating the effective in vivo dose of immunosuppressants (ISs) via in vitro testing, we conducted exploratory implantation of iPICs using various implantation methods under IS treatments in one pig. Five weeks after implantation, histological analysis of the implanted iPICs embedded in fibrin gel revealed numerous islet-like structures with insulin-positive cells. Moreover, the area of the insulin-positive cells in the pre-peritoneally implanted grafts was greater than in the subcutaneously implanted grafts. Immunohistochemical analyses further revealed that these iPIC grafts contained cells positive for glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptides, similar to naturally occurring islets. The engraftment of iPICs was successfully reproduced. These data support the observation that the iPICs engrafted well, particularly in the pre-peritoneal space of the newly generated immunocompromised diabetic mini-pigs, forming islet-like endocrine clusters. Future evaluation of human cells in this immunocompromised pig model could accelerate and development of cell therapy products.
‘Oevaru’ 2023: Ocean currents and the journey of an inaugural mental health conference in the Maldives
Authors: Mansoor Shanooha , Mohamed Arif
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This paper describes an important mental health initiative in Maldives – the inaugural national mental health research conference.

Conclusions

Amid socio-cultural challenges in the background of climate change, amplified by COVID-19, mental health issues in Maldives surged. National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH), acknowledging data gaps, has prioritized evidence-based care since 2019 with a vision of building a research culture. Oevaru 2023, Maldives’ inaugural mental health research conference, was convened by NCMH and held on October 15-16, 2023, addressing holistic care, prevention, innovation, and investment in mental health as sub-themes. Pre-conference sessions provided skill-building, followed by workshops on specialized topics. Oevaru featured keynotes, expert talks, panel discussions, and poster presentations, including a hybrid session with the Creating Futures Conference. It culminated in a white paper, emphasizing research-driven strategies for a resilient mental health system in Maldives.
A Sibling's Intuition: The Role of Sibling Approval for Romantic Relationships
Authors: Langlais Michael R. , Ayers Katherine S.
Published: October 2024

Research has shown that family and peer relationships have an impact on the stability and quality of one's romantic relationships. According to family systems theory, family dyads are likely to impact the stability of romantic dyads within a system. Yet, little is known if and how one's sibling will impact the development and maintenance of that relationship. Therefore, the goal of this study is to understand how approval of a sibling's romantic relationship impacts the quality of that relationship. Participants ( N = 168) and their siblings ( N = 118) were recruited to participate in an online survey, which included questions regarding their current and previous romantic relationships, if applicable, their relationship with their sibling, and their approval of their sibling's previous and/or current relationship(s). Data was analyzed using moderation analyses and actor–partner interdependence models. Although regression results showed no effects of sibling approval for relationship quality for either current or past relationships, the path analyses revealed that when participants approved their siblings’ relationship, the satisfaction increased, but when the siblings approved of the participant's relationship, the satisfaction trended downward. Path analyses also showed that approval did not predict the satisfaction of either participant's or sibling's last relationship. In both models, sibling and participant approval significantly predicted each other. Last, sibling closeness was not found to moderate any of these relationships. These results show that sibling approval plays a role in romantic relationships, but the impacts vary depending on relationship context.
Impact of Cachexia on Chemotherapy Efficacy and Survival in Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Khalil Muhammad Ashraf , Jafri Syed Ahsan Ali , Zahra Naqvi Midhat E. , Jauhar Iman , Kumar Vijay , Ali Syed Muhammad Sinaan , Khalil Sara , Raheem Abdul , kumar Ritesh , Haseeb Abdul , Shafique Muhammad Ashir
Published: October 2024

Background and Objective

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality, with limited curative options and high rates of cachexia, a debilitating syndrome associated with poor prognosis. While previous research has linked sarcopenia to poor outcomes in PC, the correlation between cachexia and treatment outcomes remains underexplored. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the association between cachexia and overall survival and time to treatment failure in advanced PC patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy.

Method

A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies compared cachexic and non-cachexic PC patients, reporting outcomes of observed survival or time to treatment failure. Data extraction and analysis were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 3.3, employing random-effects models and sensitivity analyses to assess heterogeneity and bias.

Results

Seven observational studies involving 2834 PC patients were included. The incidence of cachexia was 45% (95% CI: 0.27-0.65), with a higher prevalence in East Asian populations. Cachexic patients experienced significantly earlier treatment failure (SDM: −2.22, 95% CI: −2.6 to −1.7, P = 0.0001) and higher mortality risk (HR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.17-3.48, P = 0.011) compared to non-cachexic patients. Overall survival was lower in cachexic patients (SDM: −2.34, 95% CI: −3.7 to −0.90, P = 0.001), with considerable heterogeneity across studies. Meta-regression analysis revealed significant differences between countries but insignificant correlations with age.

Conclusion

Cachexia is associated with reduced overall survival, early chemotherapy failure, and elevated mortality in advanced PC patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy. Recognition and management of cachexia are crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and improving patient survival. Future research should focus on prospective studies to better understand the impact of cachexia on treatment response and develop tailored interventions to mitigate its adverse effects.
Assessing Narrative Patterns in Health Access, Outcomes, and Behaviors Across Three Data Sets From England, the United States, and California for Sexual Minority Adults
Authors: MacCarthy Sarah , Miller Peyton , Ponce Ninez A. , Elliott Marc N.
Published: October 2024

We examined peer-reviewed publications analyzing data from the English GP Patient Survey (GPPS), U.S. National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), and California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) to explore how the health of sexual minority populations varies across settings and subgroups. We searched for English language articles published 2011–2022, screening abstracts ( n = 112), reviewing full text ( n = 97), and extracting data ( n = 85). We conducted a content analysis to identify patterns across settings for sexual minority people compared with heterosexual counterparts and each other. Across all settings, sexual minority adults had poorer health care access, worse health outcomes and patient experiences, more detrimental health behaviors, and greater health care services utilization (reflecting risk awareness and need). When subgroup data were reported, differences were greater among women, except for HIV and related cancers, which were most prevalent among sexual minority men. Sexual minority people generally reported significantly worse health access, outcomes, and behaviors in all three settings.
A 14-year retrospective of HER2  + metastatic breast cancer treatment at one comprehensive cancer center: Impact of the trastuzumab/pertuzumab and trastuzumab-emtansine sequence versus trastuzumab on overall survival
Authors: Lepage V , Clarenne J , Fulbert B , Slimano F , Jouannaud C , Parent D
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Monoclonal antibodies represent a significant improvement in the treatment of the HER2 + metastatic cancer, which is associated with a worse prognosis. The objective of this study was to compare overall survival (OS) data in patients treated with trastuzumab + pertuzumab followed by trastuzumab-emtansine (T-DM1) in the second line of metastatic treatment (Arm A) versus patients treated with trastuzumab alone (Arm B). Progression-free survival (PFS) in first-line metastatic patients was also compared in both arms. Methods: This single-center retrospective study included patients from February 2008 to August 2022. OS and PFS of both arms were described and estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Data were extracted from electronic medical records and CHIMIO prescribing software. Results: The total duration of metastatic treatment of the 82 patients was significantly longer in the arm A (43.2 ± 28 months vs 33.6 ± 28.9 months), as was the median time to death (59 vs 52 months). The OS data showed a significant reduction in the risk of death in the arm A (Hazard Ratio = 0.59; 95% Confidence Interval [0.37–0.94]; p = 0.02). No difference was shown for PFS. Conclusion: The trastuzumab/pertuzumab/T-DM1 combination showed a significant improvement in OS. Our results are in line with the CLEOPATRA and EMILIA studies, but long-term responders in the arm A may have impacted our results. The absence of difference in term of PFS in first metastatic line may be explained by a selection bias, as patients in the arm A potentially have more aggressive forms.
Analysis of music teacher education programs in Puerto Rico
Authors: Reyes Francisco Luis , Lorenzo-Quiles Oswaldo
Published: October 2024

This article presents a descriptive analysis of eight music teacher education programs in Puerto Rico. Within the international landscape, music education in Puerto Rico faces obstacles similar to other countries in the form of government cutbacks and limited offerings in school settings. This study presents an analysis and evaluation of the curricular characteristics of music education bachelor’s degrees and a depiction of preservice music teacher education in the country. This was achieved through the use of the Project ALFA II-0448-A analysis matrix, an instrument that compiles four forms of data: (a) general information; (b) history of the program, (c) structure and duration; and (d) curricular principles. Information was obtained from the official web pages of each institution and/or department. Comparisons with programs in other countries reveal a propensity to adopt foreign music education models, with our analysis also outlining the implications of adopting external approaches. Musical instruction in Puerto Rican music teaching degrees is exclusively on Western art music; none of the programs offer musical instruction through popular music or the country’s traditional music or music-pedagogical lessons conducive to teaching such art forms. The lack of education in popular and Indigenous music renders it challenging for music educators to offer school-level students culturally responsive music lessons. The case of Puerto Rico thus demonstrates the perpetuation of European cultural hegemony in higher music education spaces, driven by adherence to foreign standards and approaches to music pedagogy that emanate from the global north.
Analysis of rotor vibration characteristics of surface mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor under air gap eccentricity fault
Authors: Zhu Rui , Jiang Tianzhen , Tong Xin , Han Qingpeng , He Keyuan , Xu Siyu , Wang Mingxin
Published: October 2024

Taking a permanent magnet synchronous motor as the research object, the effect of air gap eccentricity fault on the vibration response characteristics of the motor rotor is analyzed through theoretical calculations, numerical simulation and finite element simulation. First, the change of air gap magnetic field under air gap eccentricity fault is analyzed, and then further calculated to obtain the unbalanced magnetic force under air gap fault by the expression of air gap magnetic field, at last, the rotor’s vibration response characteristics under the action of unbalanced electromagnetic force are obtained by the Newmark- β calculation method. Detailed analysis of the effects of eccentricity distance, eccentricity angle and motor pole-pair number on motor rotor vibration. Finally, the synchronous motor eccentricity fault model is built in ANSYS Maxwell electromagnetic simulation software, and the change characteristics of rotor unbalanced magnetic force after eccentricity fault are calculated and the results are consistent with the theoretical calculations.
Exploring the perceptions of New Zealand Chinese dementia carers on the adapted world health organization iSupport manual: A qualitative study
Authors: Li Fei , Parsons John , Xiao Lily Dongxia , Cheung Gary
Published: October 2024

Background

Across countries, most dementia carers report a lack of adequate information about dementia and local services. To address this issue, the World Health Organization developed the iSupport programme to provide information and support to dementia carers. The iSupport online programme was found to be feasible and acceptable by dementia carers. However, the potential of using the iSupport manual (iSupport) specifically for Chinese dementia carers in New Zealand remains unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to (1) identify refinements to adapt iSupport by eliciting the perspectives of Chinese dementia carers; and (2) explore the educational needs of Chinese dementia carers, which can inform the development of support programmes tailored to their specific requirements.

Design

This was a qualitative descriptive study using semistructured interviews. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Twelve Chinese dementia carers were interviewed (mean age 58.0 years, 100% female, and mean caring experience of 2.2 years). Emerging themes were identified within three domains: (1) usefulness, (2) complexities of using iSupport, and (3) suggestions for improvement.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that Chinese dementia carers generally found iSupport to be valuable, providing valuable insights into how to tailor and enhance support for this population. However, further research is required to empirically validate the effectiveness of the adapted iSupport for Chinese dementia carers in New Zealand. These findings have implications for the development of future interventions that can more effectively address the specific needs of Chinese dementia carers.
What are the communication guidelines for people with dementia and their carers on the internet and are they evidence based? A systematic review
Authors: Harris Charlotte , Webber Rebeccah , Livingston Gill , Beeke Suzanne
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Communication difficulties of people with dementia can negatively impact well-being of them and their carers. There are evidence-based and clinically recommended strategies that can be used to support people with dementia which they are more likely to access on websites than via academic literature. We aimed to search the internet for communication advice for people with dementia and their carers, describe the strategies and compare these to the evidence-base.

Methods: After a systematic search of websites offering communication advice to people with dementia and their carers, we described the strategies there, used reflexive thematic analysis to identify the rationale for recommended strategies and compared the strategies to the evidence base. We included websites aimed at people with dementia and their carers published by dementia-related health and social care, or third sector organisations. We compared strategies to those in published systematic reviews and practice guidance from UK health and social care agencies.

Results: Our review identified 39 eligible websites, containing 164 individual strategies. These were grouped into 26 strategy types, with nine latent themes developed. These were supporting communication strengths, valuing the interaction, prioritising needs, providing emotional safety, working together, adapting communication for the situation, developing carer communication skills, knowing the individual and focusing on broader meaning.

Conclusion: Our review highlights the need for flexible approaches to supporting communication for people with dementia which consider the individual’s needs and preferences, the context of the interaction, and the priority in that moment. We identify the inherent challenges for carers in trying to interpret advice for their own needs.
Considerations for the Design of Informed Consent in Digital Health Research: Participant Perspectives
Authors: McInnis Brian J. , Pindus Ramona , Kareem Daniah , Nebeker Camille
Published: October 2024

The research team, prospective participants, and written materials all influence the success of the informed consent process. As digital health research becomes more prevalent, new challenges for successful informed consent are introduced. This exploratory research utilized a human centered design process in which 19 people were enrolled to participate in one of four online focus-groups. Participants discussed their experiences with informed consent, preferences for receiving study information and ideas about alternative consent approaches. Data were analyzed using qualitative methods. Six major themes and sixteen sub-themes were identified that included study information that prospective participants would like to receive, preferences for accessing information and a desire to connect with research team members. Specific to digital health, participants expressed a need to understand how the technologies worked and how the volume of granular personal information would be collected, stored, and shared.
A new magnetic negative stiffness mechanism: A case study of Fast Steering Mirror for quasi-zero stiffness vibration isolation
Authors: Luo Jin , Zhang Luyao , Miao Li , Mao Yao
Published: October 2024

Quasi-Zero Stiffness (QZS) is essential for low-frequency passive vibration isolation, with the negative stiffness mechanism (NSM) being pivotal for achieving QZS. Mechanical spring-based NSMs often face issues like contact friction, parasitic high-frequency modes, and stiffness nonlinearity. This paper presents a new magnetic NSM designed to overcome these challenges effectively. The mechanism is applied to a Fast Steering Mirror (FSM) as a case study, enhancing its vibration isolation performance. Initially, a torque model for the magnetic NSM is established, exploring the impact of various structural dimensions on torque and nonlinear issues. The magnetic NSM features adjustable negative stiffness and a large, adjustable linear working range. Experiments were designed to validate the principle of the magnetic NSM and its effect on the QZS FSM’s vibration isolation performance. The experimental results confirm the accuracy of the magnetic NSM principle. The QZS FSM stiffness is significantly reduced to quasi-zero stiffness, resulting in a decrease of the resonance peak from 20.1 to −12.8 dB and lowering the minimum suppressible vibration frequency from 54.63 to 3.44 Hz, thereby enhancing the vibration isolation performance of the QZS FSM.
Embedded ML-based locomotion control for a 12-joint four-legged robot
Authors: Jaber Zaid , Sababha Belal H
Published: October 2024

Reinforcement learning has developed as a promising approach for robot locomotion control, which can save engineering effort compared to conventional approaches. This article presents the implementation of Reinforcement learning on a low-cost, 12 degree of freedom robot known as a quadruped (spider) to optimize locomotion control, enabling the robot to move on different surfaces such as flat surfaces, ramps, speed bumps, and rough terrain. A MATLAB Simulink model is developed as a digital twin of the spider robot. The dynamics of the model were studied and validated using an open-loop algorithm. Then, the model is utilized in a training simulation environment to apply the reinforcement learning algorithm, showing its ability to move along a predefined path as a replacement for conventional motion control systems. Moreover, the work compares the performance and effectiveness of machine learning-based locomotion control with traditional motion control systems regarding navigation accuracy, speed, and adaptability in challenging environments. The minimum hardware requirements are also studied to move the experiment from simulation to reality.
Evaluating the impact of the Health Access for Refugees Project on people who are refugees or seeking asylum in Northern England
Authors: Balaam M-C , Haith-Cooper M , Mathew D
Published: October 2024

Aims:

Evidence demonstrates that people who are seeking asylum and refugees face individual, institutional and system-level barriers when accessing health services. Health Access for Refugees’ Project (HARP) is a UK initiative increasing access to health care within this community through a series of interventions. This study explored the impact of HARP on health service access, experiences and outcomes for clients, and how volunteers and staff addressed institutional and system-level barriers.

Methods:

In summer 2020, we conducted qualitative telephone interviews with four HARP clients, eight clients who became volunteers, seven further volunteers and three staff members.

Results:

The educational aspect of the interventions supported clients navigating the complex UK health care system while promoting independence in accessing health care. Advocacy by volunteers and staff was important in challenging barriers at individual and institutional levels. Staff challenged the asylum system, by improving information around entitlement to health care and addressing barriers to registering with a General Practitioner (GP).

Conclusions:

Interventions such as those provided by HARP can address different levels of barriers to support people accessing health care provision. This can be achieved through training health professionals and working with peers to support access to care and to develop self-advocacy. However, stable long-term funding is essential to ensure the sustainability of these initiative.
Extraction and Quality Control of Chitin and Chitosan from Shrimp (Vanami) Litophenause Vanamei Shells Wastes
Authors: Aberoumand Ali , Chabavi Mohsen
Published: October 2024

Objective/Background: The biological value of chitin and chitosan obtained from shrimp, such as physiological compatibility, non-toxicity, bio digestibility, absorption and chelating capacity, depends on qualitative parameters that are directly related to raw material source. This study was carried out to investigate extraction and characterization of chitin and chitosan from shrimp Litophenause vanamei shells wastes. Methods: Chitin and chitosan was extracted and characterized from shrimp L. vanamei shells found in Iran, using conventional methods of pretreatment, demineralization, and deacetylation. In this study, commercial shrimp L. vanamei shell was used to extract chitin and chitosan. Results: The degree of deacetylation of shrimp chitosan (49%) is directly related to solubility of chitosan. Chitosan is considered to have excellent biological value with these qualitative parameters. The yield of shrimp chitosan was 13.96%. Conclusion: These results showed that use of shrimp shell waste to produce chitin and chitosan will have more economic and biological value along with reducing environmental pollution.
Do you look longer at attractive faces? It depends on what you are looking for
Authors: Kerzel Dirk , Prigoda Nicolas , Renaud Olivier
Published: October 2024

Evolutionary psychology suggests that we are attuned to relevant information in the environment. For example, attention may be attracted by physical beauty because it is important for finding a partner with good reproductive health. Consistently, previous studies found that attention stayed longer on attractive than unattractive faces. We asked whether this tendency was automatic and varied participants’ implicit search intentions to be either consistent or inconsistent with the presumably automatic tendency to attend to attractive faces. To create an implicit intention to look at attractive faces, participants searched for a happy face in an array of neutral faces because happy faces are rated as more attractive than neutral faces. To create the opposite intention to look at unattractive faces, participants searched for a disgusted or sad face because disgusted or sad faces are rated as less attractive than neutral faces. We found longer fixation durations on attractive faces when participants searched for happy faces. When participants searched for disgusted or sad faces, however, fixation durations were longer on unattractive faces. Thus, the search task determined whether attractive faces were looked at longer. The tendency to attend to attractive faces is therefore not automatic but can be overruled by search intentions.
Diagnosis of fetal arrhythmia in echocardiography imaging using deep learning with cyclic loss
Authors: Liu Xiangyu , Zhang Yingying , Zhu Haogang , Yang Xu , Cheng Jian , Jin Jishuo , Jia Bosen , He Yihua , Zhang Hongjia
Published: October 2024

Background

Fetal arrhythmias frequently co-occur with congenital heart disease in fetuses. The peaks observed in M-mode fetal echocardiograms serve as pivotal diagnostic markers for fetal arrhythmias. However, speckles, artifacts, and noise pose notable challenges for accurate image analysis. While current deep learning networks mainly overlook cardiac cyclic information, this study concentrated on the integration of such features, leveraging contextual constraints derived from cardiac cyclical features to improve diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

This study proposed a novel deep learning architecture for diagnosing fetal arrhythmias. The architecture presented a loss function tailored to the cardiac cyclical information and formulated a diagnostic algorithm for classifying fetal arrhythmias. The training and validation processes utilized a dataset comprising 4440 patches gathered from 890 participants.

Results

Incorporating cyclic loss significantly enhanced the performance of deep learning networks in predicting peak points for diagnosing fetal arrhythmia, resulting in improvements ranging from 7.11% to 14.81% in F1-score across different network combinations. Particularly noteworthy was the 18.2% improvement in the F1-score for the low-quality group. Additionally, the precision of diagnosing fetal arrhythmia across four categories exhibited improvement, with an average improvement rate of 20.6%.

Conclusion

This study introduced a cyclic loss mechanism based on the cardiac cycle information. Comparative evaluations were conducted using baseline methods and state-of-the-art deep learning architectures with the fetal echocardiogram dataset. These evaluations demonstrated the proposed framework’s superior accuracy in diagnosing fetal arrhythmias. It is also crucial to note that further external testing is essential to assess the model’s generalizability and clinical value.
Teachers’ use of augmented input and responsive strategies in schools for students with intellectual disability: A multiple case study of a communication partner intervention
Authors: Wallin Sofia , Thunberg Gunilla , Hemmingsson Helena , Wilder Jenny
Published: October 2024

Background and aims

Teachers serve as critical communication partners for students with intellectual disability (ID) who face communication difficulties. However, teachers may lack sufficient training in using communication partner strategies and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in the classroom. This study aimed to explore teacher application of a communication partner intervention (AKKtiv ComPal) in schools for students with ID.

Methods

Video observations were conducted at four schools during a teacher-led group activity at pre- and postintervention, with follow-up 7 months later, focusing on communication partner strategies and AAC use applied as a universal approach in the classroom. Differences and similarities in intervention application and contextual factors that may influence teacher application were investigated using a multiple case study approach, in which the four teachers and their contexts served as the four examined cases.

Results

All cases increased the access to communication boards in the classroom and used more augmented input and responsive strategies following intervention. Follow-up measures revealed variability in augmented input and sustained or more use of responsive strategies. Despite increased strategy use, access to communication boards remained inconsistent, and augmented input was used with variability across observation minutes. Influencing factors to teacher application seemed to be classroom setups (such as having a table), previous AAC skills, student characteristics, and postintervention efforts such as repeating the intervention or participating in follow-up sessions.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that classroom teachers for students with ID can use augmented input and responsive strategies as a universal design approach in the classroom following the AKKtiv ComPal intervention. However, teachers may utilize the strategies somewhat differently, partly influenced by their contextual factors.

Implications

The findings suggest that while teachers for students with ID can successfully use communication partner strategies in the classroom, their use of augmented input should be nurtured over time to ensure sustained use and possibly improve consistency. Additionally, adapting to the physical environment of the classroom is crucial to optimize the application of these strategies.
Staining and Sizing Technique for Human Amniotic Membrane Graft in Refractory Macular Holes
Authors: Shroff Daraius , Bhatia Gagan , Kumar Sandeep , Grewal Dilraj S.
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To describe the triple S technique for aiding the visualization (staining), preparation (sizing), and placement (sliding) of human amniotic membrane grafts in cases of refractory macular holes (MHs). Methods: Brilliant blue–green dye was used to stain the graft before insertion for improved visualization and to aid in its orientation. Preoperative optical coherence tomography–based sizing of the graft was performed, and a dermal trephine was used to fashion the graft according to size. Once placed in the eye, the graft was positioned by bimanually sliding it into the MH using a nitinol loop and a Tano brush. Results: Seven eyes of 7 patients had repair of a refractory MH. Anatomic closure was successful in all patients with no postoperative displacement or dislodgement of the graft. The mean logMAR (±SD) visual acuity was 1.80 ± 0.4 preoperatively and 1.27 ± 0.6 at the final follow-up. Conclusions: The triple S technique provided adequate visualization, sizing, and placement of amniotic membrane grafts in cases of refractory MHs. This modification may help reduce the learning curve associated with this technique.
A Study of Clinical, Hematological and Biochemical Profiles of Patients with Pancytopenia
Authors: Srivastava Deepak Chandra , Verma Rajeev , Ashraf Syed Mohammad Kamil , Akhtar Kafil , Kumar Kanishka , Verma Manisha , Budhwani Priyanka
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to investigate patients’ clinical, hematologic, and biochemical profiles with pancytopenia. This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital from January 2019 to June 2020 on 80 patients, 39 (48.7%) were males and 41 (51.2%) were females, over the age of 18 presenting with pancytopenia. All the patients were subjected to thorough clinical and physical examinations. A complete blood count (CBC), peripheral smear examination, bone marrow aspiration, and reticulocyte count were performed. The data was analyzed using the IBM SPSS 20.0 software. Most of the cases had moderate (Hb<7-9.9g/dl) anemia (63.7%, 51/80 cases), while severe anemia (<7g/dl) was seen in 31.2% (25/80) cases, and 5% (04/80) cases showed mild anemia (Hb<10-11.9g/dl). Most patients with severe anemia had vitamin B12 deficiency anemia (12/80), that is, 15%. Macrocytic anemia was noted in preponderance (50% cases, 40/80), whereas microcytic hypochromic and normocytic hypochromic anemia constituted 21.3% (17/80), and dimorphic anemia was seen in 7.5% (06/80) cases. Based on WBC counts, 56.3% of cases (45/80) showed counts between 2000 and 4000 cells/cu.mm, while counts between 1000 and 2000 cells/cu.mm were seen in 31.3% of cases (25/80), and 12.5% of cases (10/80) had counts of <1000 cells/cu.mm. The study highlighted that 28.8% (23/80) had a platelet count between 50,000 and 1 lakh/cu.mm (mild thrombocytopenia), 36.3% (29/80) cases had a platelet count between 20,000 and 50,000/cu.mm (moderate thrombocytopenia), and 35% (28/80) cases had a platelet count less than 20,000/cu.mm (severe thrombocytopenia). The most common diagnosis of bone marrow aspiration was megaloblastic anemia, seen in 50.0% (6/12) cases. Megaloblasts were seen in 50.0% (6/12) cases of megaloblast anemia. The bone marrow aspirate of a patient with dengue fever and malaria showed macrophages containing engulfed red blood cells, lymphocytes, and platelets. Myeloblasts (>20%) were seen in 1 (8.3%) case of AML, and decreased myelopoiesis was seen in 25% of cases (two cases of aplastic anemia and one case of MDS). This study concludes that vitamin B12 deficiency is the most common cause, which is more common in people who are strict vegetarians, with a predominance in the younger age group. The study also emphasized the vitality of the physical findings, detailed primary hematologic and biochemical investigations, and peripheral blood pictures, all of which provide precious information in the work-up of pancytopenia patients.