bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public Investments and Class Gaps in Parents’ Developmental Expenditures
Authors: Jackson Margot I. , Schneider Daniel
Published: January 2022

Families and governments are the primary sources of investment in children, providing access to basic resources and other developmental opportunities. Recent research identifies significant class gaps in parental investments that contribute to high levels of inequality by family income and education. State-level public investments in children and families have the potential to reduce class inequality in children’s developmental environments by affecting parents’ behavior. Using newly assembled administrative data from 1998 to 2014, linked to household-level data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey, we examine how public-sector investment in income support, health, and education is associated with the private expenditures of low- and high-SES parents on developmental items for children. Are class gaps in parental investments in children narrower in contexts of higher public investment for children and families? We find that more generous public spending for children and families is associated with significantly narrower class gaps in private parental investments. Furthermore, we find that equalization is driven by bottom-up increases in low-SES households’ developmental spending in response to progressive state investments of income support and health, and by top-down decreases in high-SES households’ developmental spending in response to universal state investment in public education.
Reliability and Validity of Scores on a Measure of Stigma of Loneliness
Authors: Ko Stacy Y. , Wei Meifen , Rivas Julio , Tucker Jeritt R.
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to validate the use and interpretation of scores derived from the Stigma of Loneliness Scale (SLS) with a sample of college students from a large, Midwestern university. A two-factor oblique solution with 10 items was selected through exploratory factor analysis and cross-validated through confirmatory factor analysis. Correlational evidence was demonstrated through positive correlations with loneliness and shame scores, and a negative correlation with social connectedness scores. Construct evidence was demonstrated through positive correlations with self-concealment and depression scores, and a negative association with distress disclosure scores. For incremental validity, items on the SLS accounted for additional variance in predicting contingent self-worth based on approval from others, shame, self-esteem, and social self-efficacy above and beyond scores on a measure of loneliness. The internal structure of the SLS was invariant across gender groups and across Time 1 and Time 2 assessments.
Effects of Response Option Order on Likert-Type Psychometric Properties and Reactions
Authors: Robie Chet , Meade Adam W. , Risavy Stephen D. , Rasheed Sabah
Published: January 2022

The effects of different response option orders on survey responses have been studied extensively. The typical research design involves examining the differences in response characteristics between conditions with the same item stems and response option orders that differ in valence—either incrementally arranged (e.g., strongly disagree to strongly agree) or decrementally arranged (e.g., strongly agree to strongly disagree). The present study added two additional experimental conditions—randomly incremental or decremental and completely randomized. All items were presented in an item-by-item format. We also extended previous studies by including an examination of response option order effects on: careless responding, correlations between focal predictors and criteria, and participant reactions, all the while controlling for false discovery rate and focusing on the size of effects. In a sample of 1,198 university students, we found little to no response option order effects on a recognized personality assessment vis-à-vis measurement equivalence, scale mean differences, item-level distributions, or participant reactions. However, the completely randomized response option order condition differed on several careless responding indices suggesting avenues for future research.
COVID-19, Reverse Migration and Crisis Management: A Study of the Model of Government of Uttar Pradesh (India)
Authors: Tripathi Aditya P. , Agrawal Noopur
Published: January 2022

With the outbreak of the global pandemic of COVID-19, India witnessed one of the largest reverse migrations in its entire history. Amid continuously streaming heart-rending visuals of migrant workers struggling to somehow return to their place of origin, Uttar Pradesh emerged as the recipient of huge 3.2 million migrant workers employed in the informal sector. Accepting, welcoming, helping, encouraging and offering employment to those destitute workers amid the pandemic was a difficult task for the state government.

An appropriate management of this problem has made it a classic case of crisis management by a state chief minister who dares to think beyond the reflex paranoia about resource crunch so as to come up with an improvised strategy.

Purpose of this article is to discuss the crisis of reverse migration amid COVID-19 and the initiatives taken by the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The article uses case study approach to analyse the problem of livelihood faced by the migrant workers and the innovative model of employment and rehabilitation envisioned and implemented by the state government.

Based on secondary data, it observes positive impact of skill mapping and other key strategies of the Government of Uttar Pradesh.
Examining Adaptive Behaviors as Resistance Strategies for African American College Students in Adverse University Contexts
Authors: House Sherrell Hicklen
Published: January 2022

This study explored the adaptive behaviors used by African American college students attending a predominantly White university. In-depth individual interviews were conducted and used as the primary method of data collection for this study. In addition, a focus group session provided member checking opportunity to strengthen the study. The analysis revealed participants utilized multiple adaptive behaviors to combat negative racialized experiences while attending a university where they were underrepresented. These adaptive behaviors were used as resistance strategies by African American students navigating a racially charged university context.
3R Blackboard: A platform for animal and organ sharing
Authors: Czubala Magdalena A , Eilles Eva , Staubi Andreas , Ipseiz Natacha , Vogt Michael , Zieglowski Leonie , Ernst Lisa , Tolba René H , Taylor Philip R , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: January 2022

Since the embedding of the principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) in national and international regulations on the use of animals, scientists have been challenged to find ways to reduce the number of animals in their research. Here, we present a digital platform, called ‘3R Backboard’, linked to a laboratory animal management system, which facilitates sharing of surplus biological materials from animals (e.g. tissues, organs and cells) to other research teams. Based on information provided, such as genotype, age and sex, other animal workers were able to indicate their interest in collecting specific tissues and to communicate with the person providing the animals. A short pilot study of this approach conducted in a limited academic environment presented strong evidence of its effectiveness and resulted in a notable reduction of the number of mice used. In addition, the use of 3R Blackboard led to resource saving, knowledge exchange and even establishment of new collaboration.
Alcohol Consumption and COVID-19–Related Stress Among Health Care Workers: The Need for Continued Stress-Management Interventions
Authors: Beiter Kaylin J. , Wiedemann Ross P. , Thomas Casey L. , Conrad Erich J.
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

Although a known association exists between stress and alcohol consumption among health care workers (HCWs), it is not known how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected this association. We assessed pandemic work-related stress and alcohol consumption of HCWs.

Methods:

We emailed a cross-sectional, anonymous survey in June 2020 to approximately 550 HCWs at an academic hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana. HCWs from all departments were eligible to complete the survey. Questions measured work-related stress and emotional reactions to the pandemic (using the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome [MERS-CoV] Staff Questionnaire), depressive symptoms (using the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 [PHQ-9]), coping habits (using the Brief COPE scale), and pre–COVID-19 (March 2020) and current (June 2020) alcohol consumption. We measured alcohol consumption using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test–Consumption (AUDIT–C), with scores >3 considered positive. We asked 4 open-ended questions for in-depth analysis.

Results:

One-hundred two HCWs participated in the survey. The average AUDIT–C scores for current and pre–COVID-19 alcohol consumption were 3.1 and 2.8, respectively. The level of current alcohol consumption was associated with avoidant coping (r = 0.46, P < .001). Relative increases in alcohol consumption from March to June 2020 were positively associated with PHQ-9 score and greater emotional reactions to the pandemic. Availability of mental health services was ranked second to last among desired supports. Qualitative data demonstrated high levels of work-related stress from potential exposure to COVID-19 and job instability, as well as social isolation and negative effects of the pandemic on their work environment.

Conclusions:

Ongoing prevention-based interventions that emphasize stress management rather than mental or behavioral health conditions are needed.
Community-Engaged Bidirectional Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication With Immigrant and Refugee Populations During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wieland Mark L. , Asiedu Gladys B. , Njeru Jane W. , Weis Jennifer A. , Lantz Kiley , Abbenyi Adeline , Molina Luz , Ahmed Yahye , Osman Ahmed , Goodson Miriam , Torres-Herbeck Gloria , Nur Omar , Porraz Capetillo Graciela , Mohamed Ahmed A. , Sia Irene G.
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

This study was conducted to assess an intervention that was created by a community–academic partnership to address COVID-19 health inequities. We evaluated a community-engaged bidirectional pandemic crisis and emergency risk communication (CERC) framework with immigrant and refugee populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

A 17-year community-engaged research partnership adopted a CERC framework in March 2020 to address COVID-19 prevention, testing, and socioeconomic impacts with immigrant and refugee groups in southeast Minnesota. The partnership used bidirectional communication between communication leaders and their social networks to refine messages, leverage resources, and advise policy makers. We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation for intervention acceptability, feasibility, reach, adaptation, and sustainability through multisource data, including email communications, work group notes, semistructured interviews, and focus groups.

Results:

The intervention reached at least 39 000 people in 9 months. It was implemented as intended and perceived efficacy was high. Frequent communication between community and academic partners allowed the team to respond rapidly to concerns and facilitated connection of community members to resources. Framework implementation also led to systems and policy changes to meet the needs of immigrant and refugee populations.

Conclusions:

Community-engaged CERC is feasible and sustainable and can reduce COVID-19 disparities through shared creation and dissemination of public health messages, enhanced connection to existing resources, and incorporation of community perspectives in regional pandemic mitigation policies.
α− dissipative filtering for Singular Markov jump system with time delays
Authors: Zhou Juan , Lai HuiLing , Men Bo
Published: January 2022

This paper considers the [Formula: see text] dissipative filtering problem for a class of Singular Markov jump systems (SMJSs) with distributed time delays and discrete time delays. First, using Lyapunov’s stability theory and combining delay partitioning technique, integral partitioning technique, and free weight matrix method, the sufficient conditions for stochastic admissibility and [Formula: see text] dissipation of system are studied. Then, a filtering design method based on linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is given to make the filtering error system stochastically admissible and [Formula: see text] dissipative. Finally, numerical simulations verify the effectiveness of the resulting method.
Q-Learning-based fuzzy energy management for fuel cell/supercapacitor HEV
Authors: Tao Jili , Zhang Ridong , Qiao Zhijun , Ma Longhua
Published: January 2022

A novel fuzzy energy management strategy (EMS) based on improved Q-learning controller and genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed for the real-time power split between fuel cell and supercapacitor of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). Different from driving pattern recognition–based method, Q-Learning controller takes actions by observing the driving states and compensates to fuzzy controller, that is, no need to know the driving pattern in advance. Aimed to prolong the fuel cell lifetime and decrease its energy consumption, the initial values of Q-table are optimized by GA. Moreover, to enhance the environment adaptation capability, the learning strategy of Q-learning controller is improved. Two adaptive energy management strategies have been compared, and simulation results show that current fluctuation can be reduced by 6.9% and 41.5%, and H2 consumption can be saved by 0.35% and 6.08%, respectively. Meanwhile, state of charge (SOC) of supercapacitor is sustained within the desired safe range.
Physical Activity and Quality of Life in People With Visual Impairments: A Systematic Review
Authors: Caputo Eduardo L. , Porcellis da Silva Rafael B. , Leal da Cunha Larissa , Krüger Gabriele R. , Reichert Felipe F.
Published: January 2022

Objective

This systematic review aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity and quality of life (QOL) in people with visual impairments.

Methods:

Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, SPORTdiscus, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science. Observational studies describing the relationship between physical activity and QOL in adults with visual impairments were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) adapted for cross-sectional studies was used to assess the quality of the studies.

Results:

Overall, 327 studies were identified, and eight met the inclusion criteria. All studies had cross-sectional designs and seven were performed in developed countries. Physical activity was assessed objectively by one study, and five studies used the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. The World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire was the most used instrument to measure QOL. Six studies reported a positive relationship between physical activity and QOL domains, as follows: life satisfaction, activity limitation, fair or poor health, physically and mentally unhealthy days, psychological health, and overall QOL.

Conclusion:

People with visual impairments who are engaged in physical activity are more likely to have better QOL outcomes.
The Lacan–Badiou constellation in L’immanence des vérités: A limit on the infinite?
Authors: Turner Kirk , Lesiuk Caitlyn
Published: January 2022

In Alain Badiou’s most recent work, L’immanence des vérités ( The Immanence of Truths), psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan once again figures peripherally but saliently. What is their specific relation in this text, however? We argue that Badiou responds here to the problem raised precisely by the Lacanian subject, situated as it is between the radical subjectivity of the symptom and the possibility of formalization. In L’immanence, he introduces the term ‘absoluteness’ to secure truths against both relativism and transcendental construction. We show that in drawing on Lacan to establish an understanding of the absolute, Badiou highlights the implicit tension between psychoanalysis and philosophy. We treat central cross-currents – truths, knowledge, the event and love – to help reveal the specific character of their confluence in this third book of Badiou’s trilogy. Although he stresses the unity of his and Lacan’s efforts, the impossible Real marking their divisions also invariably emerges the closer one investigates.
Meeting the Needs of Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders During the COVID-19 School Closures
Authors: Bruhn Allison , Choi Youn-Jeng , McDaniel Sara , Mathews Hannah Morris , Hirsch Shanna Eisner
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 global pandemic left many educators making an emergency transition to remote instruction when schools were initially closed. Although this transition was likely difficult for most students, it may have been particularly difficult for students with emotional or behavioral disorders, who have complex and resource-intensive social, emotional, and behavioral needs. The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which special educators and related service providers felt they were able to meet those needs in the context of the pandemic occurring in the Spring of 2020. Results indicated respondents’ perceptions of their ability to meet students’ needs and implement their students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) were moderated by policies on remote instruction and students’ access to technology. In addition, respondents suggested district- and school-level response strategies, professional development on remote instruction, access to the internet at home, and additional technology would be helpful in future school closures. Implications and limitations are discussed.
Differences between proximal and distal endometrial monolayer thickness in women aged over 50 years undergoing saline infusion sonohysterography
Authors: Doulaveris Georgios , Orfanelli Theofano , Barlow Stewart , Rotenberg Ohad
Published: January 2022

Background

Saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS) is a procedure performed to evaluate the endometrium in women with postmenopausal bleeding.

Purpose

To investigate differences in endometrial monolayer measurements in women aged >50 years undergoing SIS.

Material and Methods

Retrospective study of women aged >50 undergoing SIS. Endometrial echo (EE) was measured according to the International Endometrial Tumor Analysis (IETA) guidelines. Monolayer thickness was compared between anterior and posterior uterine walls and between the monolayer that was proximal or distal to the ultrasound probe. Presence and location of focal thickening and polyps on each of the monolayers were assessed.

Results

SIS was performed in 608 patients. Of them, 485 (79.8%) had anteverted, 85 (14%) retroverted, and 38 (6.2%) a midposition uterus. The mean posterior monolayer was thicker than the anterior monolayer (2.14 mm vs. 1.88 mm; P = 0.002). The distal monolayer was thicker than the proximal layer in both anteverted and retroverted uteri (2.18 mm vs. 1.84 mm; P < 0.0001). In 16% of women, the difference between distal and proximal monolayers was ≥1 mm. Focal thickening was seen 3.3 times more frequently in the distal endometrium. Among women with a double layer EE >4 mm, 18.8% had a proximal layer of <2 mm while only 4.6% had a distal EE <2 mm.

Conclusion

Distal endometrium measures thicker than the proximal endometrium in most SIS cases and in one out of six women, the difference is >1 mm. The distal layer is three times more likely to contain focal thickening. Sonologists should be conscious of possible enhancement artifact when measuring the EE during SIS.
Apnoeic oxygenation using transnasal humidified rapid-insufflation ventilatory exchange during rigid bronchoscopy: a report of four cases
Authors: Jung Jaewoong , Park Juhui , Lee Misoon , Chung Yang-Hoon
Published: January 2022

General anaesthesia with a muscle relaxant is usually performed for rigid bronchoscopy (RB), but ventilation is challenging due to large amounts of leakage. Optiflow™ supplies 100% humidified, warmed oxygen at a rate of up to 70 l/min and this high flow rate may overcome the leakage problem. This case report describes four patients that were scheduled for RB. The lung lesions were all located below the carina, so a bronchial tube was inserted under general anaesthesia. Once a large amount of leakage was confirmed by manual ventilation, Optiflow™ was connected to the bronchial tube (flow rate, 70 l/min). All of the ports of the bronchoscopy were left open to prevent the risk of outlet obstruction. Oxygenation was well maintained with stable vital signs throughout the procedures, which took up to 34 min without airway intervention. There were no occurrences of cardiac arrhythmia or changes in the electrocardiograms. Respiratory acidosis recovered after emergence, which was confirmed by arterial blood gas analysis in all cases. Apnoeic oxygenation using Optiflow™ was applied successfully during RB. Applying Optiflow™ could make cases of difficult ventilation during RB much easier for the anaesthetist. Larger studies need to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of this technique.
Polycythemia vera presenting with pulmonary embolism and splenic infarction: a case report
Authors: Huang Ping , Li Yuhong
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary embolism and splenic infarction are rare in patients with polycythemia vera. We herein describe a man in his early 60s whose main symptoms were chest tightness, cough, and sputum expectoration. Antibiotics, bronchodilators, and mucoactive agents did not improve his symptoms. Pulmonary artery computed tomography angiography showed pulmonary embolism, and abdominal computed tomography showed multiple hypodense foci in the spleen. Bone marrow aspiration cytology, biopsy, and genetic testing confirmed polycythemia vera. The patient’s symptoms were relieved after treatment with hydroxyurea and rivaroxaban. This case emphasizes that although pulmonary embolism and splenic infarction are relatively rare in patients with polycythemia vera, the possibility of polycythemia vera should be considered in clinical practice.
Nurse Preceptors’ Experiences of an Online Strength-Based Nursing Course in Clinical Teaching
Authors: Arnaert A. , Di Feo M. , Wagner M. , Primeau G. , Aubé T. , Constantinescu A. , Lavoie-Tremblay M.
Published: January 2022

Background: Online educational programs for nurse preceptors have been created based on various theoretical frameworks; however, no programs using a Strengths-Based Nursing (SBN) approach could be located. Purpose: This qualitative descriptive study explored the nurse preceptors’ experiences in using a SBN approach to provide clinical teaching to nursing students after completing an online SBN clinical teaching course. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six nurses. Data was thematically analyzed. Findings: Although their levels of familiarity with SBN varied, all preceptors acknowledged that using a SBN approach in clinical teaching benefits both students and educators. They reported that it empowered students and that it allowed them to discover their strengths. Getting to know their students helped the preceptors provide tailored learning experiences and feedback. Using the SBN approach simultaneously enhanced the preceptors’ self-confidence and created opportunities for shared learning. Conclusion: Using a strengths’ approach offers nurse preceptors a powerful tool to facilitate student learning and skills development in clinical practice.
Hemorrhagic Transformation Following Childhood Cardioembolic Stroke Is Not Increased in Anticoagulated Patients
Authors: Ko Pin-Yi , Khalatbari Hedieh , Hatt Danielle , Coufal Nicole , Barry Dwight , Wainwright Mark S. , Khanna Paritosh C. , Amlie-Lefond Catherine
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To characterize the risk of hemorrhagic transformation following cardioembolic stroke in childhood, and whether anticoagulation impacts that risk.

Methods:

Ninety-five children (1 month-18 years) with cardioembolic arterial ischemic stroke between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2019, at 2 institutions were identified for retrospective chart review. Neuroimaging was reviewed to assess for hemorrhagic transformation.

Results:

There were 11 cases of hemorrhagic transformation; 8 occurred within 2 days of stroke diagnosis. Risk of hemorrhagic transformation did not differ in patients with and without anticoagulation use (15% vs 9%, estimated risk difference 5%; CI –9%, 19%). Stroke size did not predict hemorrhagic transformation (OR 1.004, 95% CI 0.997, 1.010). Risk of hemorrhagic transformation was higher in strokes that occurred in the inpatient compared with the outpatient setting (16% vs 6%).

Conclusion:

Hemorrhagic transformation occurred in 11% of pediatric cardioembolic ischemic stroke, usually within 2 days of stroke diagnosis, and was not associated with anticoagulation or stroke size.
Democratic librarianship in the Nordic model
Authors: Koizumi Masanori , Larsen Håkon
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this research is to examine the evolving democratic librarianship and its robust connection to the Nordic societal model. Through an analysis of libraries in Oslo, Tromsø, Stockholm, Aarhus and Helsinki, as well as recent changes in library laws, we have analysed contemporary democratic librarianship in the Nordic countries through four essential factors: (1) citizens in democratic activities within libraries, (2) library managerial decisions, (3) activities of political parties within public libraries and (4) library laws. Through the analysis, we show that this robust and unique ecosystem is supported by (1) discussions at book clubs and shared readings events connected to common societal concerns, (2) criteria of library directors and managers, such as neutrality, freedom of speech and clauses of the Library Act, (3) perception of politicians regarding public libraries as the centre of the democratic community and (4) the Library Acts critically impacting democratic librarianship.
Examining science communication on Reddit: From an “Assembled” to a “Disassembling” approach
Authors: Edwards Michelle L. , Ziegler Caden
Published: January 2022

This study examines science communication within Ask Me Anything sessions hosted by US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists on Reddit. In addition to considering a unique social media platform, our work makes an important contribution in revealing the limitations of a traditional approach to studying science communication and modeling an alternative. First, using an “assembled” approach, we qualitatively explore themes in National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists’ posts and consider how they reflect the goals of “deficit” and “dialogue” models. Second, using a “disassembling” approach, inspired by Davies and Horst and actor-network theory, we more deeply examine our experiences studying the Ask Me Anything sessions. We then demonstrate how this alternative approach identifies “hidden” human and non-human actants that may have shaped science communication as “mediators.” We use these insights to reject the common assumption that science communication on social media occurs solely and directly between scientists and publics.
Evaluation of Continuous Inhaled Epoprostenol in the Treatment of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Including Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Niss Hannah L. , Mohamed Adham , Berry Timothy P. , Saettele Timothy M. , Haines Michelle M. , Thomas Elizabeth L.
Published: January 2022

Background

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) management is primarily supportive. Pulmonary vasodilators, such as inhaled epoprostenol (iEPO), have been shown to improve PaO2:FiO2 (PF) and are used as adjunctive therapy.

Objective

To identify the positive response rate and variables associated with response to iEPO in adults with ARDS. A positive response to iEPO was defined as a 10% improvement in PF within 6 hours.

Methods

This retrospective study included adults with ARDS treated with iEPO. The primary endpoint was the variables associated with a positive response to iEPO. Secondary endpoints were positive response rate and the change in PF and SpO2:FiO2 within 6 hours. Statistical analysis included multivariable regression.

Results

Three hundred thirty-one patients were included. As baseline PF increased, the odds of responding to iEPO decreased (odds ratio [OR], 0.752, 95% CI, 0.69-0.819, p < 0.001). Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-related ARDS (OR 0.478, 95% CI, 0.281-0.814, p = 0.007) was associated with decreased odds of a positive response to iEPO. The total population had a 68.3% positive response rate to iEPO. SARS-CoV-2-related ARDS and non-SARS-CoV-2-related ARDS had a 59.5% and 72.7% positive response rate, respectively. iEPO significantly improved PF (71 vs 95, P < 0.001) in the whole population.

Conclusion and Relevance

iEPO was associated with a positive effect in a majority of moderate-to-severe ARDS patients, including patients with SARS-CoV-2-related ARDS. Lower baseline PF and non-SARS-CoV-2-related ARDS were significantly associated with a positive response to iEPO. The ability to predict which patients will respond to iEPO can facilitate better utilization.
Seismic behavior of hybrid coupled shear wall with replaceable U-shape steel coupling beam using terrestrial laser scanning
Authors: Hu Huifeng , Liu Jiepeng , Cheng Guozhong , Ding Yao , Chen Yohchia Frank
Published: January 2022

The hybrid coupled shear wall (HCW) with replaceable coupling beam (CB) is an optimal component to recover buildings promptly after a severe earthquake. However, the reinstallation may be difficult or impossible with an identical CB because of the inelastic relative dislocation between two wall piers. This study proposes a novel HCW with different reinforcement ratios in the connection, which was tested under cyclic loading. After the test, the bolt holes can be located through terrestrial scanning, which is then utilized to fabricate a new CB that can accommodate the deformation between two wall piers. The newly replaced HCW system was also tested. As a result, all virgin test specimens fail in web fracture and show a significant inelastic chord rotation of 0.2 rad, exhibiting an excellent energy dissipation capacity. Meanwhile, the new method to locate the bolt holes after the test is feasible. The replaced HCW fails in the pull-off of anchor bars and shows poor seismic behavior due to the unpatched concrete cover in the connection. To improve the energy dissipation for the replaced HCW, high-strength grouting in the connection can be used and high-strength material can be used to replace the usual anchor bolts.
Influence of earthquake-induced hydrodynamic pressure on train-bridge interactions based on back-propagation neural network
Authors: Wandji Zoumb Patrick Arnaud , Li Xiaozhen
Published: January 2022

Forecasting the behavior of the train-bridge system under strong waves is crucial in designing the cross-sea bridge. However, the influence of earthquake-induced hydrodynamic pressure on the dynamic system may be significant and need to be adequately understood. This study investigates the influence of earthquake-induced hydrodynamic force on the stochastic responses of the train-bridge interaction using the Newmark-β method. A surrogate model named back-propagation neural network is implemented by correlating wave samples with the stochastic responses of the train-bridge system. Such a model improves computation efficiency and avoids further time-step integration. The Pintan’s bridge, located in China’s Eastern Region, is selected as a case study. The results show that the earthquake-induced hydrodynamic force involves significant responses of the train-bridge system. Moreover, the maximum dynamic amplification factor of the deck and the pier are 6% and 12.5%, respectively. Finally, a significant value of the peak period minimizes the effect of the earthquake-induced hydrodynamic responses on the train-bridge system.
Comparative nonlinear seismic analysis of an existing RC bridge designed with obsolete codes
Authors: Nanclares Germán , Ambrosini Daniel , Curadelli Oscar
Published: January 2022

The evolution of seismic design and calculation criteria for highway bridges has a direct influence on their structural behavior. This paper presents a nonlinear dynamic analysis using a detailed 3D finite element model of an existing bridge, with different design criteria for the column transverse reinforcement, according to code requirements of different times. The numerical model is able to simulate both the collapse of the structure and the generation of damage in its elements when subjected to extreme seismic actions. Through the numerical model, it is possible to represent the cyclic behavior of the concrete, and to evaluate the influence of the transverse reinforcement assigned to the column on the overall response of the bridge. The formation of plastic hinges is verified, as well as the identification of different collapse mechanisms.
Complex data and simple instructions: Social regulation during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Roach Anleu Sharyn , Sarantoulias George
Published: January 2022

Responses to the Covid-19 pandemic include the generation of new norms and shifting expectations about everyday, ordinary behaviour, management of the self, and social interaction. Central to the amalgam of new norms is the way information and instructions are communicated, often in the form of simple images and icons in posters and signs that are widespread in public settings. This article combines two sociological concerns – social control and visual research – to investigate the ways social interaction is being recalibrated during the pandemic. It focuses on some of the imagery relied on in public information about the coronavirus and investigates the form and content of various signs, instructions, and notices for their normative underpinnings, their advice and directives which attempt to modify and regulate diverse activities.
Nascent academic entrepreneurs and identity work at the boundaries of professional domains
Authors: Mäkinen Elina I , Esko Terhi
Published: January 2022

Higher education institutions promote academic entrepreneurship through organizational arrangements such as innovation programs, incubators, and accelerators aimed at implementing the third mission of the university. While research has examined how these multi-professional arrangements support entrepreneurial efforts, less is known about their individual level implications which emerge as researchers are exposed to different professional values and practices. This article draws on a longitudinal qualitative study on an innovation program to investigate through what kinds of identity processes nascent academic entrepreneurs construct their professional identities and how as part of these processes they position themselves in relation to different professional domains. The analysis demonstrates three identity construction processes (hybridization, rejecting hybridization, and transitioning) and their associated identity work tactics (compartmentalizing, protecting, and reframing) at the boundaries of professional domains. Our contribution is in demonstrating how nascent academic entrepreneurs’ identity construction processes are influenced by internally and externally oriented identity work and their interactive dynamics. Moreover, the findings advance our understanding of how individuals can purposefully mould the fluidity of domain boundaries through identity work by making boundaries bridgeable, impermeable, or permeable. These findings have value for those developing organizational arrangements for the promotion of academic entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial identities.
Enhancing engagement in meaningful occupation in a dementia town: A qualitative evaluation of MOED – The meaningful occupational engagement intervention for people with dementia
Authors: Kielsgaard Kamilla , Andersen Pernille Tanggaard , Horghagen Sissel , Nielsen Dorthe , Hansen Mette Hartvig , Kristensen Hanne Kaae
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Engagement in meaningful everyday life occupations is linked to well-being. However, people with dementia are often deprived of engagement. As a response, a Danish Dementia Town was established with the intention of transforming care services to improve opportunities for meaningful engagement. The evidence-based The meaningful occupational engagement intervention for people with dementia (MOED) intervention was developed and implemented in dementia town to enhance meaningful occupational engagement. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the content, impact and implementation process of MOED.

Method

To evaluate MOED, we applied a program theory-based qualitative approach, building on participant observations and informal conversations with people with dementia ( n = 7) and staff ( n = 9). Data were analysed from a hermeneutic approach to gain an in-depth understanding of how MOED influenced meaningful occupational engagement and to evaluate the implementation process.

Findings

The main theme ‘Engagement in meaningful occupations – a conditional and fragile process’ emerged along with three subthemes: ‘Creating an everyday space of meaning: Conditions of the intervention’, ‘Occupational engagement as an opportunity to blossom: Impact of the intervention’ and ‘Professional identity, culture and reflections: Contextual barriers to changes to working practice’. Together, the subthemes illustrate how engagement in meaningful occupations arose. However, opportunities to engage in meaningful occupations were fragile, as they depended on various factors within the context.

Conclusion

Engagement in meaningful occupations emerged when MOED was applied in accordance with the program theory, as it seemed to create spaces where people with dementia could engage in meaningful occupations and they could blossom over time. However, MOED was only partially implemented in accordance with the developed program theory, as several contextual barriers influenced the sustainability of the intervention. MOED showed potential to support improvement in dementia care activity programmes to enhance opportunities to engage in meaningful occupations in everyday life for people living with dementia.
A System for Accurate Deployment of Unconstrained Triple-Fenestrated Aortic Arch Endografts
Authors: Joseph George , Thomson Viji Samuel , Thankachen Roy , Kota Albert , George Oommen K. , Jose John , Joseph Elizabeth , Sahajanandan Raj
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

To achieve accurate rotational orientation and the axial position of unconstrained triple-fenestrated physician-modified endografts upon deployment in the aortic arch during total arch thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TA-TEVAR).

Materials and Methods:

Following a detailed study of reconstructed computerized tomography angiography images of patients’ arch anatomy, customized, sealable fenestrations with radio-opaque margins are created onsite on Valiant Captivia (Medtronic) endografts, transposing the arch branch ostial anatomic interrelationship onto the endograft precisely. Radio-opaque figure-of-8 markers, indicating the 12 o’clock (superior) position, are attached to the endograft on the surface and brought up to the surface under the endograft cover during resheathing. Resheathing without any twist in the endograft is achieved by lining up the welds in each endograft stent segment in a straight line. The fluoroscopic working view for arch endograft delivery and deployment is the left anterior oblique view that is orthogonal to the plane of the arch, which, in turn, is the right anterior oblique view in which parts of a stiff indwelling guidewire in the ascending and descending aorta precisely overlap. During introduction in the working view, the endograft delivery system is rotated in the descending thoracic aorta so that the 12 o’clock figure-of-8 markers are viewed on the edge and situated at the outer aortic curvature; continued advancement into the arch without any further rotation will ensure superior orientation of the figure-of-8 markers and, consequently, correct endograft rotational orientation. Proper axial endograft positioning requires locating the left common carotid artery (LCCA) fenestration just proximal to a taut externalized LCCA-femoral guidewire loop marking the posterior limit of the LCCA ostium. After endograft deployment during rapid cardiac pacing, the target arch branches are cannulated through their respective fenestrations using hydrophilic 0.035-inch guidewires that are externalized via distal sheaths to create femoral-arch branch (through-and-through) loops over which covered fenestrated stents are introduced and deployed.

Results:

This technique was used successfully in 31 consecutive patients undergoing TA-TEVAR; systemic blood pressure was obtained in all arch branches immediately after endograft deployment, indicating adequate blood flow. All arch branches were successfully cannulated and stented.

Conclusion:

This system enables accurate deployment of unconstrained triple-fenestrated arch endografts simply and reliably during TA-TEVAR.
The Auditory P50 Gating in Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Song Weidong , Hu Xiaohui , Xie Guohua , Lai Wentao , Wang Yang , Wu Donghui
Published: January 2022

Objective: Auditory P50 gating changed might be a neurophysiological biomarker of the diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). We aimed to determine the impact of MCI in auditory P50 gating. Methods: All recruited participants completed structured questionnaires and finished auditory P50 gating measure. Results: A total of 20 MCI patients and 17 controls had been recruited. MCI patients had a significant higher reduction of P50 gating at Fz site, when compared to controls (1.21 ± .68 vs .66 ± .37, P = .00). Zero point five was the best cut off point to distinguish MCI and control of auditory P50 gating S2/S1 at Fz site. The P50 average amplitude at Pz site in MCI patients was significantly higher than controls (2.62 ± 1.20 vs 1.70 ± .74, P = .01). Conclusion: MCI patients might have impaired the ability of inhibiting the repeated stimulus.
Reliability modeling of three-state systems with multiple types of components
Authors: Ashrafi Somayeh
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a system consisting of three states: perfect functioning, partial functioning, and down is considered. The system is assumed to be composed of several non-identical groups of binary components. The reliability of the system states under various assumptions on the component lifetimes is investigated. For this purpose, first, a new concept of bivariate survival signature (BSS) is introduced. Then, under the assumption that the component lifetimes of each type are exchangeable dependent, representations for the joint reliability function of the state lifetimes are obtained based on the notion of BSS. In the particular case, three-state systems composed of two types of different modules such as general-series (parallel) systems and systems with component-wise redundancy are investigated. Several examples are presented to illustrate the theoretical results.
Inference for cumulative risk model under step-stress experiments and its application in nanocrystalline data
Authors: Qiao Yihong , Gui Wenhao
Published: January 2022

With the popularity of step-stress accelerated life testing, researchers are exploring more possibilities for models that relate the life distributions under different stress levels. Cumulative risk model assumes that the effects of stress changes have a lag period before they are fully observed, which guarantees the continuity of the hazard rate function. This paper studies the cumulative risk model for Lomax distribution with step-stress experiments. For maximum likelihood estimation, Newton-Rapson method is adopted to get point estimates. Meanwhile, the asymptotic normality of the maximum likelihood estimator is used to obtain asymptotic confidence intervals. For Bayesian estimation, point estimates and highest posterior density credible intervals under squared error loss function with informative prior and non-informative prior are derived using Metropolis-Hastings method and Metropolis-Hastings within Gibbs algorithm. To evaluate the effects of stress change time and the length of lag period, as well as the performance of different methods, numerical simulations are conducted. Then a real nanocrystalline data set is analyzed.
Successful pregnancy and delivery management in a patient with Bernard Soulier Syndrome
Authors: Demirci Ufuk , Erbilen Esra Altan , Ümit Elif Gülsüm , İnan Cihan , Sayın N. Cenk , Demir Ahmet Muzaffer
Published: January 2022

Bernard Soulier Syndrome (BSS) is an inherited bleeding disorder characterized by macrothrombocytopenia and absence of ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation. Clinical findings vary from person to person. Most of the patients are diagnosed with muco-cutaneous bleeding such as purpura, epistaxis and gingival bleeding in early childhood. Few pregnant women with BSS are described in the literature. Management of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy and delivery requires a multidisciplinary approach. The family should be warned about the potentially life-threatening bleeding during pregnancy and the delivery and the decision about mode of delivery should be individualised, involving discussion with patient and multidisciplinary team.
Estimating wind using a quadrotor
Authors: Hattenberger Gautier , Bronz Murat , Condomines Jean-Philippe
Published: January 2022

The aim of this work is to estimate the average wind influencing a quadrotor drone only based on standard navigation sensors and equations of motion. It can be used in several situation, including atmospheric studies, trajectory planning under environmental constraints, or as a reference for studying flights in shear layer. For this purpose, a small quadrotor drone with spherical shape has been developed. Flight data are recorded from telemetry during indoor and outdoor flight tests and are post-processed. The proposed solution is based on a calibration procedure with global optimization to extract the drag model and a Kalman Filter for online estimation of the wind speed and direction. Finally, an on-board implementation of the real-time estimation is demonstrated with real flights in controlled indoor environment.