bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Traffic Signs Information Volume at Highway Tunnel Entrance Zone Based on Driver’s Visual Characteristics
Authors: Han Lei , Du Zhigang , Wu Kunlin
Published: October 2023

Reasonable and appropriate traffic sign information volume (TSIV) is crucial to ensure road traffic safety, especially at the entrance zones of highway tunnels. This research compares how various levels of TSIV affect both visual characteristics and visual workload of drivers through real road driving tests. Forty participants were recruited to conduct a field driving experiment at six highway tunnels. The eye movement data of drivers were collected by an eye tracker and the effects of TSIV on drivers’ eye movement characteristics, visual stability, visual SampEn (sample entropy), and visual workload intensity were analyzed and evaluated. At the T3 level (48.31 bits) of TSIV, the drivers’ average fixation duration and average saccade duration were both at the lowest value, while the drivers’ average saccade amplitude reached the maximum, and the dispersion of the three eye movement indicators was the smallest. In addition, the drivers’ visual SampEn increased continuously when approaching the tunnel portal, and was the lowest at T3 level. With the increase of TSIV, drivers’ visual workload intensity decreased first and then increased, the minimum being at T3 level. The drivers’ visual behavior is more stable, visual coordination ability is better, and visual workload and psychological pressure are least under the T3 level, which is beneficial to ensure driving safety at the entrance zone of a highway tunnel. Inappropriate levels of TSIV at highway tunnel entrance zones will cause inevitable risks to driving safety.
RRPE’s Memorial Symposium on Professor Jim Crotty* Some Reflections on Jim Crotty: His Life and Contributions to Economics
Authors: Epstein Gerald , Pollin Robert
Published: October 2023

Jim Crotty was a beloved teacher and mentor and a treasured colleague at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. In this short essay, we try to convey Jim’s enormous contributions to his students, colleagues, and friends, and to the development and reproduction of heterodox macroeconomic theory and practice.

JEL Classification: B4, B5, E
Pressure control for pneumatic pressing roller in automated fiber placement
Authors: Cheng Liang , Zheng Chenggan , Wang Han , Dong Huiyue , Ke Yinglin
Published: October 2023

In automated fiber placement (AFP), the contact pressure between the roller and the mold is an important process parameter. Too small or too large contact pressure will result in unacceptable laying defects. This paper focuses on the control method of contact pressure in AFP. Firstly, the dynamic model of the pressing foot mechanism is established, and a mathematical relationship of input air pressure and output force is developed. Then, a self-tuning PI control algorithm is used to implement servo control of the roller output force based on the Slowly Time-Varying Recursive Identification Algorithm. Also, using Abaqus/CAE, the mapping relationship between the contact area and measurements from displacement sensors is established to predict the contact area in real time. Finally, the contact pressure control method is established by combining the servo control method of contact force and the prediction method of contact area. Experimental results show that the constant pressure control method can effectively stabilize the contact pressure, with a pressure fluctuation of less than 4% under the experimental conditions set in this paper.
Person-Centered Home Care: Exploring Worker-Client Relationships Using an Intersectional and Critical Disability Framework
Authors: Spring Lauren , Funk Laura , Kuryk Kaitlyn , Warner Grace , Macdonald Marilyn , Burke Rosanne , Keefe Janice M.
Published: October 2023

More research is needed into how “person-centered care” (PCC) manifests in home care (HC) worker-client relationships. Qualitative data were collected at three time points from twelve HC workers and others to better understand how approaches to care shape the pathways of older adult HC clients with chronic conditions in two Canadian health jurisdictions. This paper uses critical disability and intersectionality frameworks to highlight ways in which PCC enables social and instrumental benefits for workers’ and clients. It also exposes difficulties in being flexible and developing interpersonal relationships because of HC policies. Workers also acknowledged risks when trying to prioritize client preferences, sometimes drawing distinctions between reasonable and unreasonable demands. Implications for enhanced training and support for workers around navigating flexibility and boundaries and using a relational approach to PCC are discussed, as are implications for policy-making that protect all parties.
Management of healthcare waste collection and segregation for developing countries
Authors: Jangre Jogendra , Prasad Kanika , Patel Dharmendra
Published: October 2023

Healthcare waste (HCW) consists of hazardous material that may be radioactive, toxic or infectious. Inappropriate treatment and disposal of HCW may pose health risks to humans indirectly through the release of pathogens and toxic pollutants into the environment. The biggest problem in HCW management is its handling, which causes anxiety over sorting and categorizing the waste. Hence, the current study identifies and addresses the challenges towards sustainable environmental development by managing infectious HCW in developing countries. Fuzzy Delphi method is used in the present study to carefully examine the barrier drawn from the literature and experts’ opinions. The number of barriers taken into consideration for study are 30, which are then grouped into four main categories, that is, social, environmental, technological and economic barriers. Additionally, a hybrid strategy based on the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory is developed in this work to examine the significance and interrelationships of the identified barrier. The research outcome is a hierarchy and classification model based on the relative importance of the barriers. The results of this study indicate that: ‘Lack of segregation’, ‘Inconsistency in waste collection’, ‘Unregulated disposal site’ and ‘Inadequate programme for training and awareness’ require quick action. The conclusions obtained through the study would facilitate the preparation of check sheets for documenting HCW management procedures by the healthcare administration and Pollution Control Boards. Understanding the priority cause-group barrier would improve the long-term protection of the hospital environment from the spread of infection caused by the HCW.
Disclosure of Exposure to Violence in Urban Adolescents
Authors: Espinoza Carlos N. , Goering Marlon , Mrug Sylvie
Published: October 2023

Research has documented high rates of exposure to violence in urban African American adolescents together with their negative effects on psychosocial adjustment. Coping with violence exposure may be facilitated by disclosure of these experiences to others, but little is known about the extent to which youth disclose their various experiences with violence. This study examined the prevalence of disclosure of violence experienced as a witness or victim in different contexts or locations to parents, friends, siblings, teachers, counselors, and relatives. Urban African American adolescents from Southeastern U.S. were interviewed at three time points ( N = 81; average ages 13.3, 16.1, and 17.8). Across the three time points, 90% to 91% witnessed violence and 64% to 81% were victimized in the last year. Of these youth, 40% to 53% disclosed experiences of witnessing violence and 29% to 52% disclosed experiences of victimization. The results showed that disclosure of violence most often involved parents and friends, with fewer youth disclosing to teachers and counselors. Disclosure of violence victimization increased from early to late adolescence. Experiences of dating violence victimization were less likely to be disclosed by adolescents, especially among males. These findings support the need for more research on adolescents’ disclosure of violence exposure and its links to adjustment, with implications for interventions aimed at improving coping in youth exposed to violence.
The Uniqueness of Nursing in the Emerging Trend of Interdisciplinary Endeavors
Authors: Doe Mi Jin
Published: October 2023

The author provides an introduction of the review of J. B. Butts and K. L. Rich’s 4th edition of Philosophies and Theories for Advanced Nursing Practice (2022), pondering about preserving the uniqueness of nursing discipline and practice in the trend of interdisciplinary endeavors.
Cultivating Awe: A Means to Inspire Sciencing
Authors: Butcher Howard K.
Published: October 2023

Awe is an emotion involving a feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends one’s current understanding of the world and is associated with creating a sense of wonder and curiosity. The author explores how awe experiences can have a role in igniting and sustaining research endeavors, and how nurse researchers can cultivate everyday awe experiences as sources of inspiration when engaged in the art of nurse sciencing.
Paradox: A Living Rhythm in Humanbecoming
Authors: Kabigting Edwin-Nikko R.
Published: October 2023

The author explores Parse’s postulate of paradox within the humanbecoming paradigm and connects it to extant works in nursing.
Defiance or Self-Neglect?
Authors: Baumann Steven L.
Published: October 2023

A brief consideration of the term “self-neglect” as used in the gerontological nursing literature is in this column. It will serve as an introduction to the main article that reports on a survey of family members in Japan about their elder family members who refuse nursing care.
Nurses’ Perception of Professionalism in Practice: A Review of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Tomagová Martina , Kohanová Dominika , Žiaková Katarína , Čáp Juraj
Published: October 2023

Professionalism is a fundamental concept in nursing and a central aspect of nursing care. The review aimed to synthesize evidence presented in qualitative studies related to the perception of professionalism in nursing practice. Six main analytical themes were generated from primary studies included in the literature review: everyday practice, ethical aspects of nursing care, nurses’ identity, nurses’ professional growth, achieving autonomy, complexity of relationships. Presented themes are considered key elements of nursing professionalism, are closely interconnected, and support the multidimensional structure of professionalism in nursing. Nursing professionalism means providing high-quality care while upholding the values of integrity, accountability, and respect.
A Parsesciencing Inquiry on Feeling Trusted
Authors: Doe Mi Jin
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the universal humanuniverse living experience of feeling trusted using Parsesciencing, which is a unique mode of inquiry within the humanbecoming paradigm. The inquiry stance was: What is the discerning extant moment of the universal humanuniverse living experience of feeling trusted? Historians were 10 individuals who were age 18 and older living in the community. The discerning extant moment of feeling trusted, the major discovery of this Parsesciencing inquiry, was: Feeling trusted is serene uplifting recognition with dedicated affiliations arising with assuredness-unassuredness in venturing onward.
Life Patterns of Family Caregivers of Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Shipley Peggy Z. , Falkenstern Sharon K.
Published: October 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a terminal disease that greatly affects patients and the family caregivers who provide most of their care. Despite the psychological, physical, and financial strain placed on ALS caregivers, few research efforts have been directed to this caregiving phenomenon. The purpose of this research study, utilizing Newman’s health as expanding consciousness as the theoretical framework and research method, was to advance understanding of the experience of ALS family caregivers for the advancement of nursing science. Nine patterns of the whole across all family caregivers emerged from the data, showing important implications for nursing research and practice.
The Paradox in Positive and Negative Aspects of Emotional Functioning Among Older Adults with Early Stages of Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zhang Manrui , Ho Emily , Nowinski Cindy J. , Fox Rina S. , Ayturk Ezgi , Karpouzian-Rogers Tatiana , Novack Miriam , Dodge Hiroko H. , Weintraub Sandra , Gershon Richard
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Emotional functioning in older adults is influenced by normal aging and cognitive impairment, likely heterogeneous across positive versus negative aspects of emotional functioning. Little is known about positive emotional experiences at the early stages of cognitive impairment. Methods: We assessed different aspects of emotional functioning among 448 participants aged 65+ (Normal Control (NC) = 276, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) = 103, and mild dementia of the Alzheimer type (mild DAT) = 69) and tested moderators. Results: Compared to NC, older adults with MCI and mild DAT have maintained many positive aspects of emotional functioning, despite higher levels of negative affect, sadness, and loneliness. Among the oldest-old, the mild DAT group experienced higher fear and lower self-efficacy. Discussion: Older adults at early stages of cognitive impairment can experience positive aspects of emotional functioning, such as positive affect, purpose, and life satisfaction, all of which are important buildable psychological resources for coping.
Commissurotomy Using Carbon Dioxide Laser in 67 Dogs
Authors: Sharp Abigail , Smith Mark M. , Taney Kendall , Sharp Alexander R.
Published: October 2023

Commissurotomy is a surgical technique whereby the lip commissure is incised. Indications for commissurotomy include cheiloplasty, partial commissurectomy, or access to the caudal portion of the maxilla or mandible for oral surgery. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser was used for commissurotomy in dogs for partial commissurectomy (n = 7) or access for oral surgery (n = 60). All dogs had oral or maxillofacial neoplasms that required resective surgery. The CO2 laser was used to perform commissurotomy or commissurectomy, as indicated. Commissurotomy healing was evaluated at 2 weeks with longer-term follow-up of a minimum of 6 weeks (104.6 ± 99.2 weeks) postoperatively. Postoperative complications related to commissurotomy (n = 6) included mucosal dehiscence (n = 3) less than 1.5 cm, lip margin dehiscence (n = 2) less than 1.0 cm, and complete commissurotomy wound dehiscence (n = 1). Two wound dehiscence cases, including the complete wound dehiscence, had uncomplicated healing following revision surgery. Minor marginal and mucosal dehiscence cases healed by the second intention. Periwound edema ranged from mild to severe and resolved by the 2-week postoperative examination. Statistical analysis showed that complications associated with commissurotomy/commissurectomy were independent of the type of surgical procedure, tumor type, and surgical margin evaluation when using the CO2 laser. Commissurotomy using CO2 laser provided rapid and unimpeded exposure with minimal hemorrhage of the caudal maxilla and mandible for resective oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Effectiveness of acupuncture for postoperative gastrointestinal recovery in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery: a prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Zhang Yingjun , Ou Chaopeng , Luo Xiaolin , Kang Yinqian , Jiang Li , Wu Shaoyong , Ouyang Handong
Published: October 2023

Background:

Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (PGD) is one of the most common complications among patients who have undergone thoracic surgery. Acupuncture has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat gastrointestinal diseases and has shown benefit as an alternative therapy for the management of digestive ailments. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effectiveness of acupuncture as a means to aid postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery.

Methods:

In total, 112 patients aged 18–70 years undergoing thoracoscopic surgery between 15 June 2022 and 30 August 2022 were randomized into two groups. Patients in the acupuncture group (AG) first received acupuncture treatment 4 h after surgery, and treatment was repeated at 24 and 48 h. Patients in the control group (CG) did not receive any acupuncture treatment. Both groups received the same anesthetic protocol. Ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) was performed in the paravertebral spaces between T4 and T5 with administration of 20 mL of 0.33% ropivacaine. All patients received patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) after surgery.

Results:

Median time to first flatus [interquartile range] in the AG was significantly less than in the CG (23.25 [18.13, 29.75] vs 30.75 [24.13, 45.38] h, p < 0.001). Time to first fluid intake after surgery was significantly less in the AG, as compared with the CG (4 [3, 7] vs 6.5 [4.13, 10.75] h, p = 0.003). Static pain, measured by visual analog scale (VAS) score, was significantly different on the third day after surgery (p = 0.018). Dynamic pain VAS scores were lower in the AG versus CG on the first three postoperative days (p = 0.014, 0.003 and 0.041, respectively).

Conclusion:

Addition of acupuncture appeared to improve recovery of postoperative gastrointestinal function and alleviate posteoperative pain in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. Acupuncture may represent a feasible strategy for the prevention of PGD occurrence.

Trial registration number:

ChiCTR2200060888 (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry)
Unionising Sex Workers and Other Feminists
Authors: Cruz Katie
Published: October 2023

A minor movement of strippers and sex workers are unionising as the Sex Workers’ Union (SWU) branch of the Bakers Food & Allied Workers Union. SWU have produced a counter hegemonic perspective on law and society in the process of class struggle. This perspective demystifies the view that strippers and sex workers are free workers and enterprising subjects, or unfree vulnerable victims in need of state protection. SWU's counter hegemonic perspective inverts this common-sense assumption and posits that strippers and sex workers are unfree workers and free sexual subjects. This demystification is evident in SWU's ‘feminist law work’, which demands decommodification and decriminalisation for all sex workers by working within, and against, official law. In conclusion, I argue that there are at least three reasons why other feminists should support SWU by ceasing eradication of sex work via criminalisation and closure campaigns. This would open space for a politics of solidarity between sex workers and other feminists, centred on the conditions within which sex workers’ labour is commodified.
Can Equity Market Risk be Diversified with the Help of ESG Investment and Commodities?
Authors: Bal Gnyana Ranjan , Maharana Arjuna Kumar
Published: October 2023

The present study examines the time–frequency relationship between conventional equity, environmental, social and governance (ESG) Index and commodities in the Indian context. The present study uses wavelet-based decomposition methodology, and wavelet coherence to examine the co-movement and coherence among these markets. In addition, wavelet analysis explored in-phase and out-phase time–frequency relationships among the variables. The findings of the study highlight the coherence between these markets in different time horizons. Our results show that the impact of the COVID pandemic persisted across the time scales in the case of ESG index, Nifty and Oil. There is strong co-movement between ESG index and Nifty, hence ESG index cannot be considered as a hedge during crisis periods. Whereas gold exhibits hedging attributes against the volatility of conventional equity. The empirical findings have several implications for understanding the hedging attributes of ESG indices and commodities against conventional equities.
CEOs on LinkedIn, ESG Communication and Listed SMEs Stock Performance During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Filotto Umberto , Sgrulletti Dario , Stella Gian Paolo
Published: October 2023

This study explores the relationship between LinkedIn ESG-related activities of CEOs and the stock market performance of their respective companies. The study analyses data of CEOs of listed SMEs on Euronext Growth Milan and their LinkedIn activity, along with their company’s performance. In particular, this study focuses on the diffusion of ESG topic-related contents during the COVID-19 pandemic on LinkedIn using a sample of approximately 37 thousand activities and more than 2 million words examined. Clustering the sample of SMEs in n.2 groups by stock performance with k-means method, we applied textual analysis to identify LinkedIn contents containing ESG topic-related contents. The study found a significant and positive correlation between CEOs’ ESG-related LinkedIn and their company’s stock market performance. Results show that CEOs of best performing SMEs share a higher volume of ESG contents and they suggest a role of LinkedIn in ESG information dissemination on financial markets.
Accuracy and Retention of Molding Plates Used for Infants with Cleft Lip and Palate Fabricated from Different Materials: A Cross-Sectional Clinical Study
Authors: Oday Raghad , Abid Mushriq
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The study aimed to comparatively assess the accuracy and retention of molding plates made of polyethylene terephthalate modified with glycol (PET-G) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) materials, while also investigating the effect of adhesive addition on retention.

Design

A cross-sectional clinical study.

Patients/setting

The study included 30 infants diagnosed with non-syndromic cleft lip and palate (16 unilateral, 14 bilateral). Two molding plates were fabricated for each infant, and their accuracy and retention were evaluated. The data were analyzed using independent t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and Wilcoxon rank tests.

Main outcome measures

Accuracy: The accuracy of the molding plates was assessed by measuring the virtual gap between the inner surface of the plates and their working cast using Exocad software. The accuracy was evaluated in different regions (anterior, middle, and posterior) and compared between PET-G and PMMA materials. Retention: The retention of the molding plates was measured using a digital force gauge, which recorded the force required to dislodge the plates from the infant's mouth. The retention was compared between PET-G and PMMA materials, as well as the effect of adhesive addition on retention. Overall adaptation; PET-G plates showed a significantly smaller gap (mean= 0.264 ±0.106) compared to PMMA (mean= 0.362 ±0.130). Region-specific adaptation: PET-G plates demonstrated better accuracy in all regions (means of anterior =0.246, middle =0.262, posterior =0.282 µm). Significant differences in accuracy were observed in the middle and posterior regions compared to PMMA. Retention assessment revealed that the PET-G groups (with or without adhesive) exhibited significantly higher retention compared to the PMMA groups ( P<0.01).

Conclusion

PET-G plates demonstrated superior accuracy and retention compared to PMMA, with a significant difference observed in both accuracy and retention. Furthermore, the addition of denture adhesive had a positive effect on retention for both materials.
The Importance of Reflexivity in Program Development: A Case Study Involving Teaching Self-Defense to Middle School Girls in PE Class
Authors: Follo Giovanna
Published: October 2023

This research used a self-defense program to explore how middle school girls could change their perspectives on the gendered roles of victim and protector within an empowered self-defense approach. Taking the dual role of researcher and self-defense instructor, I developed a program to influence changing information strips directed toward gender norms, behavior, and discourse. Reflexive thematic analysis was utilized due to its intersection of the researcher's experience, literature, and theory. The research consisted of 40 girls journaling and 23 girls completing a post-program survey. Findings suggested that reflexive body techniques through self-defense could potentially impact internalized gendered information strips.
A multifaceted quality improvement intervention on venous thromboembolism prophylaxis compliance in hospitalized medical patients at a comprehensive cancer center
Authors: Wang Christopher , Toale Katy M
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Previous studies suggest that quality improvement initiatives focused on hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism have a positive impact on prescribing rates of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, especially those that incorporate computerized changes.

Methods

We conducted a quality improvement project to determine whether education and computerized prescriber order entry system changes affect venous thromboembolism prophylaxis compliance rates in hospitalized medical patients at a Comprehensive Cancer Center. Between 1 January 2021 and 31 January 2023, 37,739 non-surgical, adult patient encounters with a length of stay > 48 h were analyzed in our study. From 18 December 2021 to 8 March 2022, provider education was delivered to the three largest admitting services, and computerized prescriber order entry changes were implemented incorporating a mandatory requirement to either order venous thromboembolism prophylaxis or document a contraindication for all patients at moderate venous thromboembolism risk.

Results

Monthly venous thromboembolism prophylaxis compliance rates, as defined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services VTE-1 metric, increased from a mean of 74% to 93% after the interventions. This change was driven primarily by an increased utilization of mechanical venous thromboembolism prophylaxis from 37% to 53%.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that a multi-faceted intervention incorporating provider education and computerized prescriber order entry system changes can significantly increase venous thromboembolism prophylaxis compliance rates in cancer patients.
The Effect of Simulation on Newly Licensed Nurses’ Confidence in Initiating Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bukay Ashley
Published: October 2023

Hospitalized patients experiencing cardiac arrest are more likely to receive resuscitative interventions such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), advanced cardiac life support, and defibrillation, than patients who experience a cardiac arrest outside the hospital setting. Annually, there are nearly 290,000 inpatient cardiac arrests each year in the United States. These cardiac arrests are associated with a mean survival rate of only 25%. Increasing nurses’ feelings of confidence in initiating CPR may lead to faster reaction times, shorter hospital stays, and improved patient outcomes. A narrative review of literature about the effectiveness of simulations on newly licensed nurses’ perceived confidence in initiating CPR confidence levels yielded 16 articles.
Functional properties and sensory profile of coffee prepared by different brewing methods
Authors: Barrera López Jenny A. , Hernández Carrión María
Published: October 2023

Coffee is one of the main sources of antioxidants in the diet of many countries. The purpose of this research was to assess the effect of different brewing methods, particle size, and coffee quality on the total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity (AC), and sensory profile of the beverage. The brewing methods yielded differences in taste with higher bitterness in immersion methods. However, the main factors that influenced coffee extraction and taste were particle size and coffee type. A finer particle size allowed for greater phenolic and caffeine (CA) extraction (2.82 mg GA/mL; 1.01 mg CA/mL), resulting in higher bitterness and astringency. Additionally, the type of coffee resulted in a higher CA content in commercial coffee (Specialty: 0.72 ± 0.10 mg CA/mL; Commercial: 1.13 ± 0.14 mg CA/mL). The results showed that using a ratio of 1:20 and 1:15 for commercial and specialty coffee, respectively, yielded differences in AC using the DPPH method (Specialty: 11.54 ± 1.12 µmol/mL; Commercial: 10.20 ± 1.88 µmol/mL) but not with the ABTS method (Specialty: 10.38 ± 1.23 µmol/mL; Commercial: 10.37 ± 1.13 µmol/mL). Similarly to the ABTS method, no differences in the total phenol content of the coffee cup were observed (Specialty: 2.52 ± 0.40 mg/mL; Commercial: 2.43 ± 0.28 mg/mL). Thus, the findings suggest that specialty coffee offers consumers a more balanced cup with less CA content. This allows for more coffee consumption without an excessive intake of CA. However, consumers can adjust the functionality, sensory profile, and CA content of a coffee cup by modifying the particle size and the brewing method used.
A Preliminary Investigation of a Model for Training Public School Practitioners in Positive Behavioral Technologies for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Avellone Lauren , Traylor Taryn , Palko Susan , Wehman Paul , Brooke Valerie , Ham Whitney , Lewis Katherine , Schall Carol
Published: October 2023

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often display serious problem behavior that hinders educational and social progress. Educators in public schools are often untrained in the use of intensive evidence-based positive behavior technologies. This study describes the preliminary investigation of a coaching and consulting model for increasing staff’s ability within U.S. public schools to effectively reduce problem behavior in students with ASD. Public school practitioners who were enrolled in the Customized Behavior Application Training (CBAT) program during the 2020–2021 academic school year completed a survey regarding the social validity of the CBAT model and its impact on problem behavior in students with ASD. Initial findings indicate positive receptivity of CBAT as a useful training for helping school staff more confidently and independently address problem behavior in students with ASD in classroom settings.
Applying SCALE 3D for evaluating transformative social innovation
Authors: Strasser Tim , de Kraker Joop
Published: October 2023

Conventional evaluation and strategy approaches insufficiently address the needs of social innovation to adapt to non-linear and emergent change processes. This study addresses this shortcoming by testing a recently developed conceptual framework (3D) for the purpose of adaptive strategy and evaluation. We translated the 3D framework into a practice tool (SCALE 3D [Strategic Capacity development, Leadership and Evaluation in 3 Dimensions]) and applied it in two projects and four workshop settings through an action-research approach, involving networks of community-led sustainability initiatives. We describe practical benefits and suggest process steps for implementing SCALE 3D, as well as overall lessons learnt. We discuss how SCALE 3D can support transformation-oriented networks in alignment with adaptive strategy and evaluation approaches, to support strategic learning as well as reporting, and thereby help practitioners adapt to emerging changes and be accountable to funders. Our findings are relevant for evaluators, action researchers, strategy consultants, funders and social innovation practitioners supporting transformative networks.
Gender Preferences for Children and Gender Relations in Contemporary China
Authors: Wu Yuling
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate and compare the determinants of gender preference for children in rural and urban China under the values of children to parents (VOC) approach by focusing on the effects of attitudes to elder care and gender roles, and the attainment of insurance programs. Using pooled cross-sectional data from 2013 and 2015 of the Chinese General Social Surveys, we found that rural individuals expecting children responsible for old-age support exhibit daughter preference, followed by balance preference, whereas their urban counterparts show similar son preference and daughter preference. In addition, balance preference is associated with traditional gender role attitudes among rural individuals but correlated with more equal gender attitudes among urbanites. Furthermore, having more economic security decreases rural individuals’ preferences for having more daughters. The findings suggest that the prevalent balance preference and the rising preference for daughters have quite different implications on the gender relationship between rural and urban China, and traditionalism still drives gender preference in rural China. Policy implications are also discussed.
Using personal writings to detect dementia: A text mining approach
Authors: Asllani Beni , Mullen Deborah M
Published: October 2023

A novel text mining pilot for dementia detection using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) was tested on public figures’ writings looking at word choice and affect compared to those with and without dementia. The differences found in this analysis mirror the expected patterns where writings of people with dementia reflect significantly more analytical thinking words, but significantly less authentic and emotional tone. In addition, the analysis found that people with dementia use significantly less functional words, such as grammar, and affections (happiness, sadness, anger, sadness), but tend to use significantly more pronouns in their writings. Written samples of those with dementia also use significantly less time-oriented words that indicate past, present, or future. The analysis of free form text suggests a potential avenue for detecting early changes that correlate with dementia, allowing for early preventative treatment before noticeable cognitive impairment occurs.
Enhancing Mode-I and Mode-II fracture toughness of carbon fiber/epoxy laminated composites using 3D-printed polyamide interlayers
Authors: Beylergil Bertan , Duman Volkan
Published: October 2023

Delamination is a critical concern in laminated composites, affecting their structural integrity and overall performance. This study investigates the enhancement of Mode-I and Mode-II fracture toughness in carbon fiber/epoxy (CF/EP) composites through the incorporation of 3D-printed polyamide (PA) interlayers. Vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding was utilized to fabricate composite laminates with and without 3D-printed PA interlayers. Comprehensive testing was conducted to assess the effect of 3D-printed PA interlayers on the Mode-I and Mode-II fracture toughness, interlaminar shear strength, and flexural properties, as well as thermomechanical response using dynamic mechanical analysis. The results revealed a significant improvement in critical energy release rates for both Mode-I and Mode-II (GIc and GIIc), increasing by 43.5% and 81.2% respectively, compared to the reference composites. This enhancement was primarily attributed to crack bridging and plastic deformation of PA filaments in the interlaminar region. Additionally, interlaminar shear strength increased by 17.4%. While the reference composites had a glass transition temperature of 117.3 °C, the PA-reinforced composites showed a slightly higher value at 119.6 °C, with no significant change in the glass transition temperature. tanδmax values increased from 0.321 to 0.576, suggesting better energy dissipation in PA-reinforced composites. However, flexural properties were adversely affected by the increased thickness and reduced fiber volume fraction due to the introduction of 3D-printed PA interlayers, with the flexural modulus decreasing by approximately 28% and the flexural strength by around 50%. These findings offer promising opportunities to enhance the performance of CF/EP composites under specific loading scenarios, thus expanding their potential applications across diverse industries.
Damage monitoring of SiC/SiC turbine blisk under overspeed rotation testing using X-ray computed tomography and natural frequency
Authors: Guo Xiaojun , Xu Youliang , Li Jian , Luo Xiao , Li Longbiao , Hu Xiaoan
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the SiC/SiC turbine blisk was fabricated and tested to rupture under overspeed rotation. Under the overspeed rotation testing, the natural frequency of 24 blades and disk were tested using the force hammer−sound pressure sensor method, and the internal defects and damages inside the SiC/SiC turbine blisk were observed and analyzed under the computed tomography and digital imaging system. After overspeed rotation rupture, the fracture surface of the blisk was observed under the scanning electronic microscope, and a large number of fibers’ pullout was observed. Relationships between the rotation speed, internal damage evolution, and the natural frequency degradation in the blisk were established. After 98,000 R.P.M. rotating speed experiment, the natural frequencies of the blade and the disk decreased obviously. The frequency of more than half of blades decreased by 1.5−2.0%, with 13 blades in total; 17% of blades decreased by 1.0−1.5%, with 4 blades in total. The natural frequency of the disk also decreased with the increase of the rotating speed, and the natural frequency of the first three order decreased from 1.0 to 1.5%.
Tabulated chemistry method for fast calculations of detailed chemical kinetics in system level simulations of internal combustion engines
Authors: Patidar Lalit , Fogla Navin , Roggendorf Kevin , Wahiduzzaman Syed
Published: October 2023

To reduce the emissions from internal combustion engines, new combustion strategies along with alternate fuels blends are currently under investigation. The engine performance and emissions depend primarily on the chemical reactions occurring inside the engine. However, the modeling of reactions in engine simulation models using a detailed reaction mechanism is computationally very expensive, especially for very large mechanisms. Hence, a tabulated chemistry solver is developed in this work to reduce the computational time. The thermochemical states of the mixture are pre-calculated at different engine operating conditions based on homogeneous reactor simulations and stored in a lookup table which can be interpolated during the engine simulations. The present work introduces a novel method for thermochemical mapping between detailed chemistry and tabulated chemistry along with automatic identification of important intermediate species during table generation. The evolution of the thermochemical state of the mixture is described using a progress variable and its derivative. Different progress variables are investigated, and a novel formulation is proposed. The method is then applied to predict the reactions and knock phenomenon as well as the emissions in spark-ignited engines. The results using the tabulated chemistry are in good agreement with the detailed chemistry. The crank angle at the knock onset is predicted with a root-mean-squared error of 0.6 degrees crank angle. The cylinder pressure and temperature are in excellent agreement with the full detailed chemistry solution. The concentration of emissions (CO, NOx etc.) are also in good agreement for a wide range of engine operating conditions. The tabulated chemistry method provided a speedup of ~750 times as compared to detailed chemistry for a mechanism with 679 species. The computational time of the tabulated chemistry method remains constant and independent of the mechanism size. The method can be applied to large parametric studies for engine design, optimization, and calibration.
Estimation of transient intake burned gas and reformate mass fractions in a dedicated EGR engine
Authors: Kang Jun-Mo
Published: October 2023

An engine with a cylinder dedicated to providing enriched EGR (D-EGR) has been demonstrated by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). A vehicle equipped with the D-EGR engine showed more than 10% of fuel economy improvement over various driving cycles. Despite a much higher level of EGR than a conventional engine, combustion in the engine is maintained stable since reformates such as H2 and CO from rich combustion increase dilution tolerance. Thus, it is deemed that precise real-time information of the level of reformates in the engine is critical to maintain stable combustion especially during transients. In this paper, a method to estimate intake burned gas and reformate mass fractions of the D-EGR engine is developed and validated through simulations. The estimated fractions can be used to control spark timing in real-time to prevent knocking or misfire during transients in the D-EGR engine.
Open-mindedness: A double-edged sword in education
Authors: Tucker Luke
Published: October 2023

This article examines the question of whether and under what conditions teaching open-mindedness to students could have negative effects. While there has been much discussion in the literature about the potential downsides of being open-minded, the question of whether teaching this trait to young, untutored minds could result in more negative effects than positive has received little attention. Yet, given that a primary focus of the literature is providing models for use in educational contexts, exploring the potential risks of encouraging students to emulate such models is imperative. In this regard, the article presents three concerns. The first is that students may lack the full intellectual character to avoid the pitfalls of open-mindedness that have already been noted in the literature. The second concern is that students who exercise open-mindedness may incur social costs that cannot be compensated for by epistemic goods. The third concern is that educators, particularly at universities, often face certain non-ideal conditions that may make it difficult for them to effectively cultivate open-mindedness in students. I ultimately conclude that, in light of these concerns, we should approach teaching for open-mindedness with great caution. However, we should not avoid it altogether. Preliminary suggestions are offered on how instructors may attune their approach to teaching for open-mindedness to mitigate the identified concerns.
A Mixed Methods Approach for Studying Relevant Areas of Functioning in Schizophrenia
Authors: Barrios Maite , Aza Alba , Chimelis-Santiago José R. , Gómez-Benito Juana , Guilera Georgina
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to describe how a mixed methods approach was used to gain a better understanding of functioning in schizophrenia. A two-phase design was employed. In the first phase, four independent qualitative and quantitative preparatory studies were concurrently carried out to identify areas of convergence. In the second phase, we held a consensus conference with an international panel of experts to explore how these preparatory studies contributed to the final list of areas of functioning in schizophrenia. The data of the preparatory studies were complementary, and the qualitative methodology (i.e., focus groups with patients and families) was the main contributor to the final list. The experience of the conference of experts highlights the importance of the consensus process for capturing a range of cultural differences.
The Utility of Researcher-Driven Projective and Enabling Techniques to Support Engagement in Research About Dementia Diagnosis and Post-Diagnostic Support
Authors: Phillipson L. , Hevink M. , McAiney C. , Gresham M. , Conway E. , Mackowiak M. , Szczesniak D. , Smith L. , Brodaty H. , Low L. F.
Published: October 2023

Research involving people with dementia has highlighted the need to improve engagement in the conduct of interviews and focus groups. Projective and enabling techniques may be useful and avoid some of the drawbacks associated with direct questioning. However, researcher-driven projective techniques have not been extensively tested in research with people with dementia. In 2019, researchers in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands and Poland received training and trialled projective and enabling techniques to collect data about dementia diagnostic and early post-diagnostic experiences. The techniques were used with a total of thirty people with dementia (aged 67–97 years) in online and face-to-face individual and dyadic interviews and a focus group. Word association activities supported brainstorming about the concepts of ‘dementia’ and ‘support’. A researcher-driven photo elicitation technique was utilised to seek responses concerning a hypothetical couple at four time points: during a diagnostic conversation, and at 1, 6 and 12-month post-diagnosis. Discussions were audio recorded and transcribed and interviewers created ‘meta’ mind maps of word associations and made reflective notes regarding participant engagement. Deductive content analysis was used to assess the value of the techniques to support a manageable, comprehensible and meaningful research experience. Word associations supported free-flowing conversations around the key research concepts. Photo elicitation techniques promoted empathy and supported personal reflections on the probable experiences and needs of the hypothetical couple. The techniques were also useful in eliciting reflections on personal experiences, societal responses to dementia, and recommendations for improving the diagnostic conversation and supports for the post-diagnostic period. Overall, the techniques appeared to lessen some of the demands of direct questioning but were not manageable or meaningful for all participants. Further research should explore the vast array of projective techniques and engage in greater co-design and tailoring of research approaches to enhance the toolkit of dementia researchers.
Experimental investigation on mechanical properties of novel polymer hybrid composite with reinforcement of banana fiber and sugarcane bagasse powder
Authors: Madgule Mahadev , Deshmukh Padmakar , Perveen Kahkashan , Qamar Mohd Obaid , Razak Abdul , Wodajo Anteneh Wogasso
Published: October 2023

Natural fibers such as Banana fiber and sugarcane bagasse powder are used in the present study, which are abundantly available at low cost. Novel hybrid natural fiber reinforced composite specimen prepared by using the matrix material as epoxy (70%) with the addition of hardener and the reinforcement material (30%) used as NaOH chemical treated banana fiber with the addition of filler material as sugarcane bagasse powder to enhance the property. To prepare the composite material hand-lay process is used and manufactured three different combination of specimen by varying the composition ration of 10%, 15%, and 20% of reinforced material. The mechanical properties such as tensile, compression, flexural, Impact test of the prepared specimen have been evaluated as per the ASTM standards. The mechanical properties results depicts that the specimen prepared with chemically treated fiber gives more strength as compared to untreated fiber composites. The morphological study evidences the proper fiber used while preparing the hybrid composite material. The maximum tensile strength achieved in specimen is 73.48 MPa, compressive strength of 99.63 MPa, flexural strength of 77.50 MPa, Impact strength of 4.8 J/mm, Vickers hardness value of 59.6. The specimen prepared with chemically treated specimen has a higher percentage of water absorption than the untreated. This novel hybrid composite material can be used in automobile, aircraft, building, sports, and household applications.