bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure and weakening mechanism of additive-manufactured Al–Cu alloy under different heat input
Authors: Sun Longxiang , Lyu Feiyue , Zhang Jiahao , Wang Leilei , Zhan Xiaohong
Published: January 2024

The heterogeneous microstructure and mechanical properties of wire-arc additive manufactured 2219 Al–Cu alloy at several heat inputs (HIs) by adjusting the wire feeding speed were investigated. The partially melted zone (PMZ) was regarded as the weak region, and the weakening mechanism was analysed. Results indicated that the size and volume fraction of equiaxial grain increased with higher HI. The mass fraction of the segregated eutectics increased and the concentration of solid solution Cu in the α-Al matrix decreased. In addition, the morphology and distribution characteristics of eutectics were distinctly different at the inter-layer zone and inner-layer zone. The eutectics at the inter-layer PMZ were coarsened and continuous owing to the Cu solid-state diffusion and liquation.
Effect of isothermal temperature and load on wear of nanobainitic cast steel
Authors: Montoya-Mejía Mateo , Ríos-Diez Oscar , Aristizábal-Sierra Ricardo
Published: January 2024

The wear behaviour of a nanobainitic cast steel: 0.76C-2.08Si-0.74Mn-0.79Cr (wt. %), isothermally treated at different temperatures, 250 and 300°C; have been investigated by pin on disk test in dry conditions. The tests were carried out at different loads: 2, 7, 12 and 15 N. The results show that the wear rate is higher when the isothermal transformation temperature and load increases. Also, at low loads adhesion, oxidation and abrasion are the main wearing mechanisms, while at high loads contact fatigue becomes dominant. The results are related to the microstructural differences produced by the change in the isothermal temperature of the heat treatment.
Sulfide stress cracking (SSC) of a commercial Q345 pressure vessel steel in a wet H2S environment
Authors: Tian Yan , Zhang Jimou , Wang Zhen , Zhou Yong , Zhang Min , Li Xin , Zhao Ming-Chun , Atrens Andrej
Published: January 2024

The steel Q345 is extensively used in pressure vessels with low and medium pressure because of good mechanical properties and low cost. Good resistance to sulfide stress cracking (SSC) is required for the pressure vessel steel, but the SSC behavior of the Q345 has received little attention. This work investigated the SSC behavior of the Q345 in a wet H2S environment. The microstructure contained the irregular various-sized polygonal-like ferrite grains plus a carbon-rich degenerate pearlite banded structure. The Q345 had high ductility but failed to pass the SSC tests. The SSC cracking involved hydrogen embrittlement. The SSC preferentially occurred at the carbon-rich degenerate pearlite banded structure. The elimination of the carbon-rich degenerate pearlite banded structure is necessary to improve the SSC resistance of the Q345 pressure vessel steel.
Effect of agro-waste-derived graphene/titanium powders on polyester resin for supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Livinus Okeke Chibuike , Maduabuchi Chika , Uyor Uwa Orji , Sunday Aigbodion Victor
Published: January 2024

Polyesters are renowned for their chemical resistance and thermal/mechanical properties but lack electrical conductivity. This study reinforces polyester with titanium and varying graphene (derived from rice husk ash [RHA]) percentages, testing resultant nanocomposites as supercapacitor electrodes. Transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirm successful graphene synthesis from RHA, polymer crystallinity change and GN/Ti particle dispersion. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) assess nanocomposites, revealing enhanced properties with graphene. Suitability for supercapacitor electrodes increases proportionally with higher graphene percentages in CV tests. At a 20-mV/s scan rate, the specific capacitance for P–25 wt-%G sees an impressive 614% increase, underscoring significant enhancement in polyester matrix properties.
Surface modification of AISI-420 steel by cathodic cage plasma niobium nitride deposition
Authors: Naeem M , Raja Faryal Qamar , Nolêto B J S , Serra P L C , Costa T H C , Díaz-Guillén J C , Hdz-García H M , Iqbal Javed , Sousa R R M
Published: January 2024

AISI-420 martensitic steel is used in several applications due to its high corrosion resistance. A niobium nitride coating is deposited on steel by cathodic cage plasma deposition (CCPD) to upgrade the surface properties. The X-ray diffraction shows that the coating has a tetragonal Nb4N5 structure in each condition. The nano-hardness of the untreated sample (2.5 GPa) is increased up to 15.5 and 18.7 GPa at 400°C and 450°C, respectively. A ball-on-disc wear tester is applied for wear analysis, and the wear rate is found to be reduced up to six times by coating. This study shows that the CCPD can be used successfully for depositing niobium nitride coating with outstanding mechanical and tribological properties of AISI-420 steel.
Can Physical Activity Protect Young Adolescents With Difficult Temperaments and Exposed to Family Adversity From Internalizing and Externalizing Problems? Yes, But…
Authors: Alawie Fatima , Olivier Elizabeth , Dupéré Véronique
Published: January 2024

The study explores whether physical activity (PA) in early adolescence limits the risk of internalizing and externalizing problems in youth with difficult temperaments, from low-income families, or exposed to impaired family functioning. Participants ( N = 1312; 53% girls) were drawn from the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development (QLSCD). Results revealed that difficult temperament was associated with subsequent symptoms of anxiety among youth with low PA levels. Impaired family functioning was associated with higher levels of subsequent physical aggressivity among youth with high levels of PA. These results highlight the complex role of PA in different aspects of adjustment and the importance of the quality of PA contexts in young adolescents exposed to family adversity.
Surgical correction of congenital megaprepuce: a pilot study
Authors: You Jia , Chen Hai-tao , Li Shuang
Published: January 2024

Objective

Congenital megaprepuce (CMP) is a rare penile deformity that usually requires surgical correction. This study was performed to examine the efficacy of the modified Sugita procedure for repairing CMP in pediatric patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of pediatric patients with CMP treated by a surgeon using the modified Sugita procedure in our hospital from January 2019 to April 2021.

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled, and their median age at surgery was 70.5 months (range, 60–96 months). All surgeries were successful, and no complications occurred during the operation. The postoperative foreskin had moderate edema in five patients, and soaking in 10% hypertonic saline resulted in disappearance of the edema within 4 to 8 weeks. The follow-up duration was 6 to 20 months (median, 10 months). No other complications occurred, such as dehiscence or hematoma.

Conclusions

The modified Sugita procedure for correction of CMP produces excellent cosmesis and a low complication rate. Our study indicates that the modified Sugita procedure is a safe and feasible treatment option.
Risk Factor for Clinical Failure of Medial Meniscal Allograft Transplant: Early vs Late Graft Tear
Authors: Song Ju-Ho , Kim Jong-Min , Bin Seong-Il , Lee Bum-Sik , Lee Jongjin
Published: January 2024

Background:

Graft tears are common postoperative findings in meniscal allograft transplant (MAT). Graft tear in medial MAT may be different from that of lateral MAT, considering the difference between medial meniscal tears and lateral meniscal tears. Moreover, medial MAT is frequently accompanied by ligament reconstruction, which is associated with graft tear. The effect of graft tear on the long-term survivorship of medial MAT has not been investigated.

Hypothesis:

Graft tear would adversely affect the survivorship of medial MAT and the effect would be different according to the timing of graft tear.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 55 patients undergoing medial MAT between June 2019 and March 2000 were retrospectively reviewed. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were reviewed to identify graft tears, and the timing of their occurrence was investigated. Postoperative MRI was performed routinely during the first postoperative year and every 2 years thereafter. The patients were classified into a no graft tear (NT) group, early graft tear (occurring within 1 year; ET) group, and late graft tear (occurring 1 year after surgery; LT) group. The survival rate of medial MAT was estimated according to graft tear, with a failure being defined as (1) reoperations including arthroplasty, realignment osteotomy, revision MAT, and meniscectomy (>50% of the graft or to the zone of the meniscocapsular junction) or (2) Lysholm score <65. Clinical scores were compared between the groups.

Results:

The mean follow-up duration was 8.6 ± 5.3 years. During that period, clinical failures occurred in 6 (10.9%) patients. The overall survival rate at 5 years was 94.0% (95% CI, 90.6%-97.4%). Graft tears were seen in 18 patients: 6 patients in the ET group and 12 patients in the LT group. The median time when the graft tear was noted on MRI scans was 5.5 months (range, 1-11 months) postoperatively in the ET group and 99.5 months (range, 19-264 months) postoperatively in the LT group. Five patients in the ET group had root tears, whereas 9 patients in the LT group had complex or horizontal tears. The 5-year survival rate of the ET group was 62.5% (95% CI, 41.2%-83.8%), which was significantly lower than that of the NT group (96.8%; 95% CI, 93.6%-99.9%) and the LT group (85.7%; 95% CI, 72.5%-98.9%; P = .002). The mean postoperative Lysholm scores were 85.6 ± 17.9 in the NT group, 93.0 ± 2.8 in the ET group, and 79.3 ± 11.6 in the LT group, showing no significant difference between the groups (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = .058).

Conclusion:

Clinical relevance of graft tear that occurred after medial MAT was dependent upon its timing. ET was a risk factor for clinical failure, whereas LT did not adversely affect graft survivorship. Lysholm scores did not differ according to graft tear.
Size-Based Microfluidic-Enriched Mesenchymal Stem Cell Subpopulations Enhance Articular Cartilage Repair
Authors: Yang Zheng , Wu Yingnan , Neo Shu Hui , Yang Dahou , Jeon Hyungkook , Tee Ching Ann , Denslin Vinitha , Lin Daryl Jimian , Lee Eng Hin , Boyer Laurie A. , Han Jongyoon
Published: January 2024

Background:

The functional heterogeneity of culture-expanded mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has hindered the clinical application of MSCs. Previous studies have shown that MSC subpopulations with superior chondrogenic capacity can be isolated using a spiral microfluidic device based on the principle of inertial cell focusing.

Hypothesis:

The delivery of microfluidic-enriched chondrogenic MSCs that are consistent in size and function will overcome the challenge of the functional heterogeneity of expanded MSCs and will significantly improve MSC-based cartilage repair.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A next-generation, fully automated multidimensional double spiral microfluidic device was designed to provide more refined and efficient isolation of MSC subpopulations based on size. Analysis of in vitro chondrogenic potential and RNA sequencing was performed on size-sorted MSC subpopulations. In vivo cartilage repair efficacy was demonstrated in an osteochondral injury model in 12-week-old rats. Defects were implanted with MSC subpopulations (n = 6 per group) and compared with those implanted with unsegregated MSCs (n = 6). Osteochondral repair was assessed at 6 and 12 weeks after surgery by histological, micro–computed tomography, and mechanical analysis.

Results:

A chondrogenic MSC subpopulation was efficiently isolated using the multidimensional double spiral device. RNA sequencing revealed distinct transcriptomic profiles and identified differential gene expression between subpopulations. The delivery of a chondrogenic MSC subpopulation resulted in improved cartilage repair, as indicated by histological scoring, the compression modulus, and micro–computed tomography of the subchondral bone.

Conclusion:

We have established a rapid, label-free, and reliable microfluidic protocol for more efficient size-based enrichment of a chondrogenic MSC subpopulation. Our proof-of-concept in vivo study demonstrates the enhanced cartilage repair efficacy of these enriched chondrogenic MSCs.

Clinical Relevance:

The delivery of microfluidic-enriched chondrogenic MSCs that are consistent in size and function can overcome the challenge of the functional heterogeneity of expanded MSCs, resulting in significant improvement in MSC-based cartilage repair. The availability of such rapid, label-free enriched chondrogenic MSCs can enable better cell therapy products for cartilage repair with improved treatment outcomes.
How Much Does Nonprofit Board Governance Matter? Role of Interlocking Directorates, Executive Power, and Women on Boards in Executive Compensation
Authors: Yoon Nara
Published: January 2024

This article develops an executive compensation model focusing on board governance structure in nonprofit organizations. Drawn from a panel of nonprofits in three Upstate New York cities from 1998 to 2014, the analysis shows that chief executive officers (CEOs) compensation is positively associated with interlocking directorships of CEOs and boards of directors. The results reveal that the executives enjoy more compensation when they serve on the boards of other nonprofit organizations, hold more power in a leadership position with CEO duality and longer tenure, and when the organizations are led by busy boards where a majority of members in the boardroom sit on the boards of multiple other nonprofits. The analysis further shows that financial rewards offered to the executives are contingent upon women’s representation in the boardroom. These findings suggest board governance composition plays a critical role in executive compensation. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Examining the Effects of Communication Features of Educational Robots on Students’ Cognitive Load, Attitudes, and Learning Performance
Authors: Li Shan , Liu Zuer , Qiu Mengling , Huang Jiaxin , Zheng Juan , Ding Guozhu
Published: January 2024

Educational robots represent a unique form of teacher presence. Exploring how the communication features of robot instructors affect student learning experience could contribute to the advancement of educational robots. This study examined the impact of speech rate, voice type, and emotional tone of robots on students’ cognitive load, attitudes toward robot-assisted teaching, and learning performance. We recruited 477 Chinese primary school students assigned to either the speech rate, voice type, or emotional tone experiment. The results indicate that speech rate significantly influenced students’ cognitive load, with the medium speed condition resulting in higher germane load compared to both fast and slow speed conditions. Moreover, students had a lower preference for adult male voices over adult female, boy, or girl voices. However, voice type did not significantly impact attitudes toward robot-assisted teaching or learning outcomes. Emotional tone did not affect students’ cognitive load, attitudes, or learning performance. These findings provide valuable insights for instructors and designers when configuring the communication features of educational robots in classroom environments. Additionally, students generally prioritized the intelligence of the robot over its communication features, and they did not perceive the teaching content as difficult in all experiments. This study has methodological and practical significance.
Clinical Assessment in School Psychology: Impervious to Scientific Reform?
Authors: Dombrowski Stefan C. , McGill Ryan J.
Published: January 2024

Given the interdisciplinary influences on school psychology along with its requirement to comply with federal and state law in the United States, scientific progress in the area of cognitive assessment and specific learning disabilities (SLD) identification has experienced slow, if not stagnant, progress. Extrapolation of research from one discipline to that of assessment is common in school psychology where test authors and creators of interpretive and diagnostic systems make theoretical and empirical justification for their claims with correlational research and factor analysis. Although these methodologies may appear to support an underlying theory or interpretive approach, they can produce divergent results depending upon sample size and methodological choice. Consequently, greater replication and reproduction is required. Federal and state law in the United States may perpetuate low value practices among practitioners who view them as acceptable since they are legal. School psychology does not have regulatory agencies to oversee practices. All of these influences impinge on scientific progress in cognitive assessment and SLD identification. Fortunately, Canada is not beholden to omnibus special education law so its academic institutions and agencies (e.g., school districts) may be better poised to engender scientific progress in cognitive assessment and SLD identification.
Shifting gears: Creating equity informed leaders for effective learning health systems
Authors: Lee-Foon Nakia K. , Brown Adalsteinn , Reid Robert J.
Published: January 2024

Leadership is vital to a well-functioning and effective health system. This importance was underscored during the COVID-19 pandemic. As disparities in infection and mortality rates became pronounced, greater calls for equity-informed healthcare emerged. These calls led some leaders to use the Learning Health System (LHS) approach to quickly transform research into healthcare practice to mitigate inequities causing these rates. The LHS is a relatively new framework informed by many within and outside health systems, supported by decision-makers and financial arrangements and encouraged by a culture that fosters quick learning and improvements. Although studies indicate the LHS can enhance patients’ health outcomes, scarce literature exists on health leaders’ use and incorporation of equity into the LHS. This article begins addressing this gap by examining how equity can be incorporated into LHS activities and discussing ways leaders can ensure equity is considered and achieved in rapid learning cycles.
Simultaneous Venous-Arterial Doppler Ultrasound During Early Fluid Resuscitation to Characterize a Novel Doppler Starling Curve: A Prospective Observational Pilot Study
Authors: Kenny Jon-Émile S. , Prager Ross , Rola Philippe , Haycock Korbin , Gibbs Stanley O. , Johnston Delaney H. , Horner Christine , Eibl Joseph K. , Lau Vivian C. , Kemp Benjamin O.
Published: January 2024

Background: The likelihood of a patient being preload responsive—a state where the cardiac output or stroke volume (SV) increases significantly in response to preload—depends on both cardiac filling and function. This relationship is described by the canonical Frank-Starling curve. Research Question: We hypothesize that a novel method for phenotyping hypoperfused patients (ie, the “Doppler Starling curve”) using synchronously measured jugular venous Doppler as a marker of central venous pressure (CVP) and corrected flow time of the carotid artery (ccFT) as a surrogate for SV will refine the pretest probability of preload responsiveness/unresponsiveness. Study Design and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a prospectively collected convenience sample of hypoperfused adult emergency department (ED) patients. Doppler measurements were obtained before and during a preload challenge using a wireless, wearable Doppler ultrasound system. Based on internal jugular and carotid artery Doppler surrogates of CVP and SV, respectively, we placed hemodynamic assessments into quadrants (Qx) prior to preload augmentation: low CVP with normal SV (Q1), high CVP and normal SV (Q2), low CVP and low SV (Q3) and high CVP and low SV (Q4). The proportion of preload responsive and unresponsive assessments in each quadrant was calculated based on the maximal change in ccFT (ccFTΔ) during either a passive leg raise or rapid fluid challenge. Results: We analyzed 41 patients (68 hemodynamic assessments) between February and April 2021. The prevalence of each phenotype was: 15 (22%) in Q1, 8 (12%) in Q2, 39 (57%) in Q3, and 6 (9%) in Q4. Preload unresponsiveness rates were: Q1, 20%; Q2, 50%; Q3, 33%, and Q4, 67%. Interpretation: Even fluid naïve ED patients with sonographic estimates of low CVP have high rates of fluid unresponsiveness, making dynamic testing valuable to prevent ineffective IVF administration.
Is health-related quality of life trajectory associated with dialysis modality choice in advanced chronic kidney disease?
Authors: Morin Catherine , Pichette Maude , Elftouh Naoual , Imbeault Benoit , Laurin Louis-Philippe , Lafrance Jean-Philippe , Goupil Rémi , Nadeau-Fredette Annie-Claire
Published: January 2024

Background:

Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease have lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL) than the general population. There is uncertainty regarding patterns of HRQOL changes before dialysis initiation. This study aimed to characterise HRQOL trajectory and assess its potential association with intended dialysis modality.

Methods:

This prospective single-centre cohort study followed adults with an estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤15 mL/min/1.73 m2 for one year. Patients were allocated into one of two groups based on their intended treatment modality, ‘home dialysis’ (peritoneal dialysis or home haemodialysis (HD)) and ‘other’ (in-centre HD or conservative care). Follow-up was for up to 1 year or earlier if initiated on kidney replacement therapy or died. Kidney Disease Quality of Life – Short Form (KDQOL-SF) was completed every 6 months. Predictors of changes in KDQOL-SF components were modelled using mixed effect multivariable linear regressions.

Results:

One hundred and nine patients were included. At baseline, crude physical composite summary (PCS) (45 ± 10 vs. 39 ± 8) was higher in patients choosing home dialysis ( n = 41), while mental composite summary (MCS) was similar in both groups. After adjustment, patients choosing home dialysis had an increase in MCS ( B = 8.4 per year, p = 0.007) compared to those selecting in-centre HD/conservative care. This translates into an annual increase in MSC by 3 points for the ‘home dialysis’ group, compared to an annual decline by 5.4 points in the ‘other’ group. There was no difference in PCS trajectory through time.

Conclusions:

Patients choosing home dialysis had improved MCS over time compared to those not selecting home dialysis. More work is needed to determine how differences in processes of care and/or unmeasured patient characteristics modulate this association.
Surrogate-model-based dynamic-sensing optimization method for high-speed elevator car horizontal vibration reduction
Authors: Cheng Changlong , Zhang Shuyou , Wang Zili , Qiu Lemiao , Tu Li , Zhu Linhao , Yao Rongqing
Published: January 2024

The horizontal vibration of high-speed elevators has a significant impact on ride comfort and safety stability. Plenty of intelligent methods have been implemented in horizontal vibration reduction. The conventional optimization process for vibration reduction design involves conducting numerous complex dynamics simulations to establish the correlation between design parameters and vibration response. However, this method is inefficient and costly due to the demanding computational power requirements and time-consuming nature of the simulations. This study proposes a surrogate-model-based dynamic-sensing optimization method. A Kriging model is developed based on dynamics simulations, providing an efficient approach for obtaining the vibration response with specified design parameters. The DSPSO algorithm was proposed by incorporating perceptual particles and environmental adaptation mechanisms into the PSO algorithm. The DSPSO algorithm can be nested and interact with the Kriging model to optimize design parameters. During evolution, feasible and uncertain solutions are extracted into the sample space to enhance the accuracy of the Kriging model. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated using both the ZDT series test functions and elevators from Canny Elevator Co., Ltd.
Innovative joining technologies for lightweight material vehicles
Authors: Papa Ilaria , Panico Martina , Carandente Mario , Lopresto Valentina
Published: January 2024

The transport industry is one of the most important for society and its economic growth. In Europe, this is especially true for road transport, which is an essential pillar for employment, trade, and economic development. The challenge is to minimize energy and cost and maximize efficiency while ensuring comfort and safety. This is the driving force behind technological progress that with social changes (such as, changing consumer preferences, greater environmental awareness) and political changes is revolutionizing the way people and goods move. Nevertheless, the selection of lightweight materials is negligible; it could involve new manufacturing technologies and joining techniques. Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has been one of the prominent car producers employing aluminum alloys since 2003. A typical JLR monocoque is characterized by 90% aluminum stampings components made of 5xxx and 6xxx series aluminum alloys. Audi Space Frame (ASF) represents an alternative interpretation of improved lightweight frame architecture, and it is characterized by aluminum for more than 80% with the residual parts in CFRP used for rear panels, tunnel and the components useful to higher torsional stiffness. A 30% weight decrease is reached with respect to traditional steel corresponding elements. This review shows an overview of the challenges and opportunities for automotive body structures in the coming years while maintaining the goal of reducing mass and improving sustainability without increasing costs and impacting safety. This manuscript first evaluates how we can reduce mass in vehicles minimizing the carbon footprint and developing recyclable structures. The potential of new materials will be shown in light of the design constraints and the choice of technology used. The final remarks will discuss opportunities for engineering innovation dictated by this period of great changes and needs.
Strength evaluation of alkali treated Sabai Grass (Eulaliopsis binata) fibers and its reinforced composites
Authors: Kumar Shambhu , Das Ratnakar , Parida Sambit Kumar
Published: January 2024

This investigation aims to use Sabai grass fiber as a substitute reinforcement in epoxy-based composite systems, which is environment friendly and performs similarly to other natural fibers. Composite laminates are prepared with treated and untreated Sabai fibers reinforcement layered in different orientations using vacuum resin transfer molding method. Fabricated composite laminates have been evaluated for their mechanical properties (tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact strength). The effect of varying concentrations (3%, 5%, 7%, and 9 wt.%) of NaOH treatment and fiber reinforcement angle on Sabai fiber-reinforced composite laminates on its physical and mechanical properties are experimentally evaluated. The specimen made with 5 wt.% of NaOH-treated has shown maximum tensile properties because of the higher fiber concentration in the composite laminate. The thickness of fibers gets reduced as the central voids contract after the treatment. The treated strand reinforced (0°/0°/0°/0°) composite laminate has maximum tensile (103.15 MPa) and flexural strength (143 MPa). In addition, it has a higher density (1.20 g/cm3) and less porosity contents (0.70%). The untreated reinforcement has a higher impact strength. The adhesion mechanism at the fiber matrix interface has been studied using field emission scanning electron microscopy by analyzing the fiber surface morphology after treatment and in the fractured samples. The correlation of the mechanical properties of the laminate has been discussed with consideration of interfacial adhesion mechanism, fiber pull-outs, and fiber-matrix cracking phenomenon. FTIR analyses confirm the removal of the peak at around 1735 cm−1 that belongs to the acetyl group of hemicellulose attributed to C=O stretching vibration, and the peak at 1253 cm−1 is associated with the lignin, which is in close agreement with chemical analysis.
Rule-based torque vectoring distribution strategy combined with slip ratio control to improve the handling stability of distributed drive electric vehicles
Authors: Huang Caixia , Wu Xin , Wu Chenxi , Wang Jiande , Shu Xiong
Published: January 2024

This study presents a hierarchical control system of handling stability for distributed drive electric vehicles. The desired direct yaw moment (DYM), determined by the upper-level controller, regulates the sideslip angle and yaw rate according to the robust H∞ control strategy. Meanwhile, the lower-level controller proposed in this research consists of a rule-based torque vectoring distribution and wheel slip ratio control. The proposed rule-based torque vectoring distribution strategy (TVDS) permits drive pattern switching based on the wheel slip ratio and preferentially employs the balanced torque vectoring distribution strategy to achieve DYM, wherein the distributed braking torque is achieved by motor regenerative braking. Here, the wheel with serious slipping was managed in a four-wheel drive pattern by the slip ratio controller. Then, the distribution strategies used for differential braking and proposed rule-based torque vectoring with and without slip ratio control were compared and analyzed in vehicle states and actuator outputs, respectively, by setting CarSim/MATLAB cosimulation under two driving conditions. Results demonstrate that the proposed rule-based TVDS can improve handling stability, energy efficiency, and riding comfort. Wheel locking can be successfully avoided by actuating the wheel slip ratio control, subsequently reducing the road adhesion requirements and improving vehicle handling stability and trajectory tracking accuracy.
Low-stiffness comfort shift characteristics of a permanent magnet two-speed transmission for low-speed EV
Authors: Du Junliang , Liu Dawei , Ren Tingzhi
Published: January 2024

Jerk during shift in mechanical two-speed transmissions often have a serious impact on driving comfort. Within this paper, a proposed two-speed permanent magnet transmission is presented for low-speed electric vehicles, which utilizes magnetic non-contact transmission. This transmission is composed of a magnetic drive mechanism, a clutch, and a selectable one-way clutch. Then, a mathematical model is established for the magnetic-machine composite transmission based on the principles of magnetic field modulation and the concentrated parameter method. Additionally, a shift method that operates without power interruption is presented. Finally, the process of shifting is simulated for permanent magnet drive systems with varying magnetic coupling stiffness in a MATLAB/Simulink environment. The resulting torque calculations are compared with those obtained from the commercial software Maxwell. Simulation results indicate that the two-speed permanent magnet transmission does not experience power interruption during upshifting. Less jerk when shifting gears. Low magnetic coupling stiffness can reduce high-frequency vibration and enhance shift comfort. The findings from the torque calculations obtained through the proposed model align with those obtained from the commercial software Maxwell.
Mechanical and fatigue resistance of restorations supported by welded-framework and realized using computer-aided designed prosthetic shells: In vitro pilot study
Authors: Albiero Alberto Maria , Bevilacqua Lorenzo , Pegoraro Federica , Turco Gianluca , Momic Stefano , Di Lenarda Roberto , Maglione Michele
Published: January 2024

Resin coating in implants rehabilitation cannot always be aesthetic, durable and comfortable for the patient mainly due to the limited dimensions of the final structure. Intraoral welding technique and computer-aided designed prosthetic shells may be a solution. This in vitro study evaluates the capacity of load and the weakest point of implant-supported provisional prosthesis using welded titanium framework. Twelve samples were produced to simulate an implant supported fixed prosthetic bridge. Two implants (Ankylos; Dentsply Sirona Implants; Germany) were inserted inside blocks of nanoceramic material produced with a stereolithographic 3D printer. A polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) resin shell was performed with CAD/CAM and relined on welded framework. Six samples were produced with the same procedure reducing resin thickness. The samples were subjected to fatigue test (6,500,000 cycles) using ElectroForce 3310 fatigue machine ( t1); subsequently a mechanical compression test using a universal Shimadzu AGS-X 10 machine ( t2). The samples were analyzed with a photographic and radiographic documentation at t0, t1 and t2. The samples survived mechanical fatigue test without evidence of failure. The radiographic and photographic evaluation revealed the fracture of resin coating after the mechanical compression test. The samples with minimal resin thickness fractured first. Adequate assessment of the resin thickness is mandatory to improve the longevity of these rehabilitations. CAD-CAM digital prosthetic design allows us to optimize the thicknesses and the prosthetic shapes, allowing us to obtain good degrees of resistance even in the presence of reduced prosthetic spaces.
Hand assistive device with suction cup (HADS) technology for poststroke patients
Authors: Jayavel Porkodi , Karthik Varshini , Mathunny Jaison Jacob , Jothi Suresh , Devaraj Ashokkumar
Published: January 2024

A stroke is a neurological disease that primarily causes paralysis. Besides paraplegia, all other types of paralysis affect the upper extremity. Advanced technologies, such as wearable devices and rehabilitation regimens, are also being developed to enhance the functional ability of a stroke person to grasp and release daily living objects. In this research, we developed a rehabilitation functional assist device combining a flexion and extension mechanism with suction cup technology (hybrid technology) to help post-stroke patients improve their hand grip strength in day-to-day grasping activities. Ten poststroke hemiplegia patients were studied to test the functional ability of the impaired hand by wearing and not wearing the device. The outcomes were validated by three standard clinical tests, such as the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – Hand Functional Test (TRI-HFT), the Chedoke Arm Hand Activity Inventory (CAHAI-9), and the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) with overall score improvements of 14.5 ± 3.8–25 ± 2.2 ( p = 0.005), 5.4 ± 2.8–10 ± 1.6 ( p = 0.008), and 9.6 ± 2.6–17 ± 2.4 ( p = 0.005) respectively. The p-value for each of the three evaluations was less than 0.05, indicating significantly improved results and the average feedback score of the participants was 3.8 out of 5. The proposed device significantly increased impaired hand functionality in post-stroke patients. The subjects could complete some of the grasping tasks that they could not grasp without the device.

Clinical trial registration

The Clinical Trial Registry of India approved the work CTRI/2022/02/040495 described in this manuscript.
Indo-Islamicate Perfumes in Early Modern India: Textualisation, Transmissions and Assimilations
Authors: Chattopadhyay Amrita
Published: January 2024

This article brings to focus the material life of early modern perfumes in the Indian subcontinent. It offers a ‘documentary archaeology’ by foregrounding texts that recorded perfumes in their stage of production and preparation. By studying this corpus, it presents perfumes as a locale where craft, technology and labour interacted with each other in blending scientific knowledge with the natural landscape. With a focus on textualised perfume recipes, listed aromatic ingredients and distillation methods, it examines the various shifts, transitions, cross-cultural material borrowings and finally the assimilations that occurred in the olfactory landscape of an Indo-Islamicate political empire, especially during the Mughal rule in India. A rich perfume-repository, where divergences and acculturations took place could be best understood by identifying the various methods and processes in which material practices and literary traditions were shaping each other. In understanding this, it goes beyond the ephemerality of perfumes and argues in favour of a craft that was labour-intensive, skill-based, technologically innovative and culturally adaptive. Finally, it explores the diversification of its forms, significance of receptacles and amplification of its production, both in texts and in practice, to highlight the pervasive materiality of Indo-Islamicate perfumes in early modern India.
Facilitating the Edible Bird’s Nest Industry: The Roles of Perceived Quality, Resistance to Change and Mindfulness
Authors: Nguyen Gia Ninh
Published: January 2024

Understanding the mechanisms through which consumers make purchase decisions towards edible bird’s nest (EBN) products is critical for producers of EBN products to trigger sales of this specialty and boost the enormous potential of the EBN industry. This study is one of the first to expand the conventional theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model by incorporating perceived quality, perceived value, willingness to pay, resistance to change and mindfulness into the conventional TPB model to enhance its robustness and better predict the purchase intention of consumers for EBN products. The data was collected from 240 consumers in Vietnam. The results show that subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, perceived quality, perceived value and willingness to pay exert significant impacts on the purchase intention of consumers for EBN products. Resistance to change and mindfulness indirectly influence the purchase intention through willingness to pay.
The Behavioral Health Sector Response to Child Sexual Abuse, Exploitation, and Trafficking: A Call to Action
Authors: Seth Rajeev , Greenbaum Jordan
Published: January 2024

Child sexual violence is a major public health problem in India and is associated with myriad short- and long-term behavioral health effects. Affected children are at an increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral problems, and substance misuse. Behavioral health professionals are highly likely to encounter patients at risk of or with a recent/remote history of child sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or sex trafficking. Caregivers of patients may report a history of child sexual violence. Clinicians must possess the knowledge and skills to recognize and appropriately respond to suspected child sexual violence using a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and rights-based approach. Many behavioral health professionals lack the knowledge of child sexual violence and the confidence of working with affected patients. Child sexual violence is not routinely addressed in medical school curricula, nor is it systematically addressed in postgraduate training programs. Practicing clinicians may feel ill-equipped to recognize and manage patients exposed to child sexual violence and may miss opportunities to offer critical support and assistance to vulnerable children and their families. The behavioral health sector needs an organized, systematic, and trauma-informed response to child sexual violence, and this requires specific training of professionals and development of organizational response protocols tailored to fit the needs of the organization and its patient population. Multiple resources are available in India to assist behavioral health professionals, and organization administrators accomplish these goals.
Criminality at Shopping Malls: A South African Perspective
Authors: Lallupersad N. , Govender D.
Published: January 2024

A sharp rise in crimes at shopping malls in KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces around the country has prompted shopping mall owners to keep shopping malls safe. Some of the crimes that shopping malls experience include armed robberies, common robberies, parking lot crimes (theft from motor vehicles), assaults, store holdups, shoplifting and property crimes. Shoppers and retailers at malls are concerned about their safety. Criminals commit crimes for numerous reasons, and the situations are always different. The purpose of this article was to assess the crime risks at these malls so that the malls can be made safe, secure and a pleasant environment for all. The Criminal Opportunity Theory served as the basis for this study. A qualitative case study design was used in this study. One-on-one interviews, observation and criminal case docket analysis were used to collect data. Nine shopping malls, 30 criminal case dockets and 30 participants were purposively sampled, based on specific criteria. The collected data were thematically analysed and interpreted. It was found that there was a great need for both violent and nonviolent crimes to be reduced at shopping malls. The study showed that security measures should be enhanced to deter potential criminals and mitigate the risk of criminal activities.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Leading Change for Sustainability in Schools Simulation: A Research and Development Project
Authors: Nguyen Vien-Thong , Hallinger Philip , Showanasai Parinya
Published: January 2024

Background

Although a growing number of simulations have been developed for the purpose of educating for sustainability, published reports consist primarily of prescriptive essays, case descriptions, and commentaries rather than empirical studies. Moreover, only a small number of the empirical studies have used experimental designs to assess their effects on learning. This article addressed the need for validated active learning tools that can be used by educators in educating for sustainability.

Aim

This article presents the design and initial evaluation of the Leading Change for Sustainability in Schools (LCSS) computer simulation. The study examined the effects of the simulation on student engagement, skills in formulating and executing change management strategies, and the application of knowledge to the simulation challenge.

Method

This project employed the research and development method for product design and evaluation. A three-week simulation-based learning intervention was conducted with 32 experienced K-12 school teachers and administrators studying in a Master degree program in Vietnam. The research employed a quasi-experimental, time series design to assessed change in learners’ knowledge and skills following participation in the Leading Change for Sustainability in Schools intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to evaluate week-by-week changes in learning outcomes.

Results

The study found that the simulation-based learning module organized around the Leading Change for Sustainability in Schools (Vietnamese version) simulation was highly engaging for students. Students played the simulation an average of 24 times outside of class during the three-week module (18 hours per student). Students’ skills in formulating and executing change strategies for sustainability improved significantly over the three-week module; 28 students reached the highest level of success on the final assessment. Students also demonstrated significant improvement in their ability to incorporate change management principles into their strategies, indicating improvement in higher-order thinking skills.
Establishing and Affirming Social Connections: Recruiting Non-Hispanic Black Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Neblett Debra A. , Kennedy-Malone Laurie
Published: January 2024

The underrepresentation of non-Hispanic Black adults in clinical research impacts the generalizability and usefulness of research findings. The purpose of this article is to discuss recruitment strategies used in a research study examining the self-care of diabetes and diabetes distress in non-Hispanic Black adults with type 2 diabetes. In this cross-sectional correlation study, the participants were non-Hispanic Black adults with type 2 diabetes living in North Carolina. A questionnaire collected sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. This study was analyzed using descriptive statistics. In total, 512 individuals accessed the online survey. After data screening, 275 participants were used for data analysis. Sixteen recruitment sites provided letters of support, and 13 were active in the recruitment process. Most participants learned about the research study via social media. Social connections resulting in recruitment partners and using social media supported the successful recruitment. The recruitment strategies implemented can inform researchers of effective evidence-based recruitment strategies to increase the participation of non-Hispanic Black adults in clinical research.
Starting Your Day with Dread or Excitement? The Effects of Meeting Scheduling Cadences on Anticipated Daily Outcomes
Authors: Kreamer Liana M. , Rogelberg Steven G.
Published: January 2024

While researchers have explored many facets of workplace meetings, current research has yet to consider the concept of scheduling cadences (e.g., how meetings are dispersed throughout the day). Leveraging research on task interruptions and anticipatory reactions, we conducted two studies using experimental vignette methodology (EVM) where we presented hypothetical daily work schedules, varying by meeting load and dispersion, to a sample of full-time employees (Study 1: N = 109; Study 2: N = 222) and captured their anticipated feelings about the day. We also considered daily task-characteristics (e.g., expected task duration, task complexity) and an individual difference trait (work interruption resiliency; WIR) as moderating variables. Results from both studies provide evidence that daily meeting schedules influence employees’ anticipatory reactions to the day in terms of positive affect and productivity. Days with meetings high in quantity, duration, and dispersion result in decreased anticipations of positive affect and productivity. Moreover, characteristics of the daily work task/s influence these relationships. When daily task complexity is expected to be high, the negative effects of meeting duration and dispersion are heightened. Further, an individuals’ level of WIR moderates the relationships between daily meeting dispersion and anticipated end-of-day outcomes, with those low in resiliency more negatively affected by dispersed meetings compared to their counterparts. Findings from this research extend literature on meetings, workplace interruptions and anticipatory responses to offer insight into how to best schedule workplace meetings to increase employees’ anticipated outcomes and experiences.