bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subseasonal Representation and Predictability of North American Weather Regimes Using Cluster Analysis
Authors: Molina Maria J. , Richter Jadwiga H. , Glanville Anne A. , Dagon Katherine , Berner Judith , Hu Aixue , Meehl Gerald A.
Published: January 2023

This study focuses on assessing the representation and predictability of North American weather regimes, which are persistent large-scale atmospheric patterns, in a set of initialized subseasonal reforecasts created using the Community Earth System Model, version 2 (CESM2). The k-means clustering was used to extract four key North American (10°–70°N, 150°–40°W) weather regimes within ERA5 reanalysis, which were used to interpret CESM2 subseasonal forecast performance. Results show that CESM2 can recreate the climatology of the four main North American weather regimes with skill but exhibits biases during later lead times with overoccurrence of the West Coast high regime and underoccurrence of the Greenland high and Alaskan ridge regimes. Overall, the West Coast high and Pacific trough regimes exhibited higher predictability within CESM2, partly related to El Niño. Despite biases, several reforecasts were skillful and exhibited high predictability during later lead times, which could be partly attributed to skillful representation of the atmosphere from the tropics to extratropics upstream of North America. The high predictability at the subseasonal time scale of these case-study examples was manifested as an “ensemble realignment,” in which most ensemble members agreed on a prediction despite ensemble trajectory dispersion during earlier lead times. Weather regimes were also shown to project distinct temperature and precipitation anomalies across North America that largely agree with observational products. This study further demonstrates that unsupervised learning methods can be used to uncover sources and limits of subseasonal predictability, along with systematic biases present in numerical prediction systems.

Significance Statement

North American weather regimes are large-scale atmospheric patterns that can persist for several days. Their skillful subseasonal (2 weeks or greater) prediction can provide valuable lead time to prepare for temperature and precipitation anomalies that can stress energy and water resources. The purpose of this study was to assess the climatological representation and subseasonal predictability of four key North American weather regimes using a research subseasonal prediction system and clustering analysis. We found that the Pacific trough and West Coast high regimes exhibited higher predictability than other regimes and that skillful representation of conditions across the tropics and extratropics can increase predictability during later lead times. Future work will quantify causal pathways associated with high predictability.
Understanding and detecting behaviours prior to a suicide attempt: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Onie Sandersan , Li Xun , Glastonbury Kate , Hardy Rebecca C , Rakusin Dori , Wong Iana , Liang Morgan , Josifovski Natasha , Brooks Anna , Torok Michelle , Sowmya Arcot , Larsen Mark E
Published: January 2023

Objective:

Prior research suggests there are observable behaviours preceding suicide attempts in public places. However, there are currently no ways to continually monitor such sites, limiting the potential to intervene. In this mixed-methods study, we examined the acceptability and feasibility of using an automated computer system to identify crisis behaviours.

Methods:

First, we conducted a large-scale acceptability survey to assess public perceptions on research using closed-circuit television and artificial intelligence for suicide prevention. Second, we identified crisis behaviours at a frequently used cliff location by manual structured analysis of closed-circuit television footage. Third, we configured a computer vision algorithm to identify crisis behaviours and evaluated its sensitivity and specificity using test footage.

Results:

Overall, attitudes were positive towards research using closed-circuit television and artificial intelligence for suicide prevention, including among those with lived experience. The second study revealed that there are identifiable behaviours, including repetitive pacing and an extended stay. Finally, the automated behaviour recognition algorithm was able to correctly identify 80% of acted crisis clips and correctly reject 90% of acted non-crisis clips.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that using computer vision to detect behaviours preceding suicide is feasible and well accepted by the community and may be a feasible method of initiating human contact during a crisis.
Regional international organizations in Africa as recipients of foreign aid: Why are some more attractive to donors than others?
Authors: Stapel Sören , Panke Diana , Söderbaum Fredrik
Published: January 2023

Foreign aid to regional international organizations (RIOs) has increased tremendously in recent decades. The vast differences between RIOs give rise to the question of why some RIOs attract considerable amounts of aid while others attract much less, or even nothing at all. To address that question, this article sets out and examines a set of hypotheses that focus on various characteristics of RIOs that allow donors to reduce transaction costs. Empirically, the analysis proceeds via two steps: the hypotheses are first subjected to an empirical plausibility probe based on quantitative methods and then illustrated based on case study of the Southern African Development Community. The findings reveal that RIOs are most attractive when they operate in a range of policy fields, involve many member-states and are engaged in long-lasting collaborations with donors. By contrast, there is little support for conventional explanations as to why RIOs attract funding – for instance, claims that being democratic, being most in need or providing donors with market access will lead to greater funding. The rather disturbing policy implication is that a small number of RIOs are likely to continue to attract the bulk of funding, whereas poorly funded RIOs are unlikely to attract significant amounts of aid.
Modeling Partitions of Individuals
Authors: Hoffman Marion , Block Per , Snijders Tom A. B.
Published: January 2023

Despite the central role of self-assembled groups in animal and human societies, statistical tools to explain their composition are limited. The authors introduce a statistical framework for cross-sectional observations of groups with exclusive membership to illuminate the social and organizational mechanisms that bring people together. Drawing from stochastic models for networks and partitions, the proposed framework introduces an exponential family of distributions for partitions. The authors derive its main mathematical properties and suggest strategies to specify and estimate such models. A case study on hackathon events applies the developed framework to the study of mechanisms underlying the formation of self-assembled project teams.
Sliding mode fault-tolerant consensus control for heterogeneous multi-agent systems based on finite-time observer and controller
Authors: Yang Pu , Ding Yu , Hu Xukai , Zhang Zhiqing , Wang Zixin
Published: January 2023

This paper mainly investigates the fault-tolerant consensus problem for leader-following heterogeneous multi-agent systems with actuator faults. The model of multi-agent systems is reconstructed and the lumped faults, including external disturbances and actuator faults, are constructed. A new adaptive super-twisting sliding mode observer (ASTSMO) is constructed to estimate the undetectable lumped faults. The time-varying gain is introduced to solve the initial error problem and peak value problem. Then, based on the estimated results, an integral terminal sliding mode controller (ITSMC) is designed by integrating the fixed-time stability theory, which can effectively eliminate the nonlinear term and lumped faults. Finally, simulations are provided to illustrate the effectiveness and benefits of the proposed theoretical results.
Nodular Fasciitis in the Preauricular Area in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Jeong Junhui
Published: January 2023

Nodular fasciitis is a benign myofibroblastic and fibroblastic proliferative lesion that can be found in the subcutaneous tissue, muscle, and fascia. It is frequently observed in young adults aged 20 to 40 years and less commonly in pediatric patients. Rapid growth, high cellularity, and remarkable mitotic activity of this lesion could lead to misdiagnosis as a soft tissue sarcoma. Here, two cases of nodular fasciitis in the preauricular area in pediatric patients were reported. Nodular fasciitis in the preauricular area in a pediatric patient is rare. It could be confused with soft tissue sarcoma. However, nodular fasciitis should be suspected in a pediatric patient with a rapidly growing mass in the head and neck region. Surgical excision should be performed to confirm the histopathologic diagnosis when clinical diagnosis is uncertain and there is possibility of malignancy.
A Rare Case of Pleomorphic Adenoma in the Internal Auditory Canal
Authors: Wang Yue , Yuan Jiatian , Xie Qiwei , Wang Yaowen
Published: January 2023

Pleomorphic adenoma is a common tumor of the salivary gland tumor, but it is rare in the ear. To the authors’ knowledge, this patient is the first reported case of pleomorphic adenoma arising in the internal auditory canal. There have been few documents reporting the manifestations and the therapy strategy of this disease. This study clearly demonstrated the experience in treating pleomorphic adenoma, including the characteristics of the clinical manifestation, the key procedures of surgery, and key points of the diagnosis. The translabyrinthine approach under the microscope performed to remove this tumor is a good option for resecting this type of tumor.
Heywood Cases in Unidimensional Factor Models and Item Response Models for Binary Data
Authors: Wang Selena , Paul De Boeck  , Yotebieng Marcel
Published: January 2023

Heywood cases are known from linear factor analysis literature as variables with communalities larger than 1.00, and in present day factor models, the problem also shows in negative residual variances. For binary data, factor models for ordinal data can be applied with either delta parameterization or theta parametrization. The former is more common than the latter and can yield Heywood cases when limited information estimation is used. The same problem shows up as non convergence cases in theta parameterized factor models and as extremely large discriminations in item response theory (IRT) models. In this study, we explain why the same problem appears in different forms depending on the method of analysis. We first discuss this issue using equations and then illustrate our conclusions using a small simulation study, where all three methods, delta and theta parameterized ordinal factor models (with estimation based on polychoric correlations and thresholds) and an IRT model (with full information estimation), are used to analyze the same datasets. The results generalize across WLS, WLSMV, and ULS estimators for the factor models for ordinal data. Finally, we analyze real data with the same three approaches. The results of the simulation study and the analysis of real data confirm the theoretical conclusions.
A study of rhythmic emergent literacy within an Orff-based program implemented in Israel
Authors: Elkoshi Rivka
Published: January 2023

Within an Orff-based program implemented in Israel, this mixed-methods study examined the effects of age on emerging rhythmic literacy in children. Participants ( N = 132) were kindergarteners ( n = 45) and first-graders ( n = 87) aged 4 to 7.8 years. The participants performed a rhythm entitled “Rhythm-A” through the body and instrumental percussion and then were required to create a self-invented notation of the rhythm. A one-session literacy intervention program, based on teaching standard rhythm notation, followed with randomly selected first-graders ( n = 44). Its purpose was to investigate the effect of standard notation instruction on children’s ability to notate Rhythm-A. Results indicated (1) a significant age effect on children’s emergent rhythmic literacy and (2) a significant effect of a one-session literacy intervention program on participants’ post-intervention notations. The study has relevance to research on Orff-based music education and music literacy.
Relational mindfulness themes in descriptions of intimate encounters across six interpersonal contexts
Authors: Kelley Douglas L. , Nichols Hannah M.
Published: January 2023

A growing body of research suggests that mindfulness is associated with relational processes and outcomes, including intimate behavior and experience. Yet, substantial questions exist as to interpersonal manifestations of intrapsychic mindfulness. The current study used a qualitative approach to explore participant descriptions of intimate experience, across six interpersonal communication contexts (talk, sex, play, grief, conflict, and forgiveness), for evidence of relational mindfulness themes. Using reflexive thematic analysis ( Braun & Clarke, 2022 ) as a guide, analysis produced 10 themes represented by three mindfulness supra-categories: (1) present with - presence, emotional expression, and feeling understood, (2) awareness of - attention, observation, defining, and understanding, (3) nonjudgment by - acceptance, vulnerability, and nonreactivity. All themes were identified in participant responses across the six interpersonal contexts, with the exception of nonreactivity in play and grief. Significantly, these findings broaden the lens with which mindfulness researchers may continue to explore the mindfulness - interpersonal relationship connection.
Anticipating Sino-UK fintech networks and the changing geographies of money as infrastructure
Authors: Hall Sarah
Published: January 2023

This paper examines Sino-UK financial relations in the fintech sector. Through an empirical focus on fintech payments systems, the analysis locates fintech within broader research on the internationalisation of Chinese finance. Conceptually, the paper responds to calls for more attention to be paid to state actors in fintech development. By examining the relationship between the UK and China in fintech, as part of the UK's wider role in Chinese financial internationalisation, I argue that such a focus on the state needs to be expanded beyond the current focus on domestic policy to include wider questions regarding how fintech sits alongside overseas and international policy concerns. I suggest that one productive way of doing this is to understand fintech as a monetary infrastructure. In so doing, the paper argues that fintech needs to be understood as much as a monetary geography as it is a financial geography.
GIS-Based Approach to Dynamic Accessibility: Incorporating a User Perspective to Recognize Social Equity Implications
Authors: Robbennolt Dale , Witmer Ann-Perry
Published: January 2023

Accessibility is a common system performance measure that provides insights into the tangible benefits provided by a transit system. Although traditional accessibility approaches focus on improving service for existing users, it is also important to understand the needs of potential users when considering design changes. Traditional approaches have been improved with dynamic measures but are still weighted toward the needs of existing users, those in high density areas, and those traveling at peak times. Additionally, public transportation provides a way to reduce existing disparities in accessibility, but it is unknown how effectively current systems perform. Although existing methods use points of interest or existing travel patterns as a baseline for accessibility, the proposed methodology considers both origins and destinations unweighted to account for potential users that would be undervalued in traditional analyses. A user-oriented approach is proposed, considering access area and spontaneous trips. General transit feed specification data for the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (CUMTD) were used with the proposed methodology to analyze the accessibility provided by the bus system. This analysis showed that CUMTD provided the highest accessibility in high density areas and equal levels of service across income levels and areas with varying rates of vehicle ownership. It highlighted reductions in accessibility faced by those traveling at off-peak hours and called attention to how the system did not provide higher coverage in low-income neighborhoods. The demonstrated methodology has broad applicability to understanding spatial-temporal variations in access, including for the case of public transportation.
Factors Influencing Lateral Distance and Speed of Motorized Vehicles Overtaking Bicycles
Authors: Louro Thiago Vinícius , Junior Jorge Ubirajara Pedreira , Gardin Gabriel Torresin de Oliveira , da Silva Junior Carlos Alberto Prado
Published: January 2023

This research analyzed the factors influencing lateral distance and speed of motorized vehicles overtaking cyclists. The measurement apparatus consisted of an instrumented bicycle equipped with an ultrasonic sensor, a speed radar, GPS devices and a GoPro camera. The experiment was carried out along a predetermined route in the urban area of Londrina, in the state of Paraná, Brazil. A total of 36 tours were performed, wherein 2032 overtaking maneuvers were identified. Several factors were regressed on two dependent variables, namely the overtaking speed and the lateral distance, within a path analysis modeling framework to assess their contributions to the cyclist safety. The presence of painted bike lanes was shown to be the most important aspect, as lateral clearance increased by an average 31 cm compared with that for streets without this intervention. It should be noted though that this effect is higher for lanes with larger widths, with practically no influence on narrower lanes. Larger lateral distances were found in wider streets, whereas heavier vehicles and higher speed limits were associated with faster overtaking maneuvers. The most critical factor was related to cycling in commercial city zones where the combined effects posed a greater risk to cycling (i.e., higher overtaking speeds with shorter lateral distances). These findings shed light on relevant policies to promote cyclist safety and cycling attractiveness, such as expanding cycling infrastructure, decreasing street speed limits and informing citizens about the safest cycling routes in their urban environment.
Sociological Drivers of Segmentation Within Youth and Children's Mission and Ministry in Western Contexts
Authors: Crispin Gareth
Published: January 2023

The sociological drivers of segmentation within youth and children's mission and ministry in Western contexts are commonly seen as social developments in the last 70 years. This view focuses on the symptoms of foundational issues relating to modernity (specifically the emergence of the reflexive self) and so overlooks the significance of deeper questions that began further back in history. Considering these foundational issues should lead churches to reflect on the value of more intergenerational approaches.
A space for defence: The Cadiz cove as a model for fortification and navigation in the early modern Spanish Atlantic
Authors: Gullón Abao Alberto J. , Reyes Lilyam Padrón
Published: January 2023

During the early modern age, La Caleta, as a strategic cove into the Bay of Cadiz, underwent numerous defensive improvements to protect the Cadiz emporium from possible attacks by other powers. These engineering works were to become a model for Spanish military architecture. The mobility of military engineers made significant contributions to reinforcing and upholding the Spanish Atlantic Bridge, not only through the Carrera de Indias, but also through the transmission of scientific and military knowledge, which was a major feature of Bourbon reformism. The multidimensional nature of this phenomenon is clearly illustrated by the fortification of Cadiz as the monarchy's main commercial port and naval base, which involved not only defensive improvements, but also aids to navigation – measures that were also applied in South American harbours during the eighteenth century.
From Looking for Reason to Finding Meaning: A Spiritual Journey of Recovery From Sexual Trauma
Authors: Eytan Sharon , Ronel Natti
Published: January 2023

The current study aims to describe a spiritual facet of recovery processes from sexual trauma, as manifested in the transformation from the frustration and despair of looking for reasons to the traumatic event(s) to the growth and prosperity of finding meaning. A phenomenological research was conducted, interviewing individuals with a variety of affiliations to spirituality and to trauma: female survivors who turned to spirituality as part of their recovery process ( n = 17), spiritually oriented therapists who treat survivors ( n = 10), and spiritual leaders and teachers who are often consulted by survivors and their close ones ( n = 9). Participants were asked about the nature of perceived transformation of survivors’ trauma, within the meaning context, and about the perceived relevance of such a spiritual meaning-making process to recovery. Findings suggests four stances in the process:(1) doubting, describing frustrations, denials, and struggles, (2) believing, describing the acceptance of the idea that there is spiritual meaning in the trauma, (3) knowing, describing calmness, comfort, trust, and sense of freedom, and (4) doing, describing carrying the message of spiritual recovery to other survivors. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on victimology and on spirituality. It adds to the research on the spiritual meaning-making process, on the role of spirituality in survivors’ perceptions of victimization and recovery, and on the importance of spiritual meaning as a recovery capital. Additionally, it directs therapists to broaden their discussions with survivors on their beliefs and values. The study lays the foundation for a theory entitled Spiritual Victimology.
“Sometimes It Seems Easier to Push It Away”: A Study Into the Barriers to Help-Seeking for Victims of Sexual Violence
Authors: Pijlman Valérie , Eichelsheim Veroni , Pemberton Antony , de Waardt Mijke
Published: January 2023

Experiencing sexual violence may have serious long-term consequences for victims. Seeking help may decrease the chances of developing long-term physical and psychosocial problems. Still not every victim seeks help, and especially with victimization of sexual violence, there may be several reasons as to why. The barriers to help-seeking are diverse and may depend on several contextual factors. This study, as part of a larger research project, aimed to determine the barriers that victims of sexual violence experience in their decision to seek help in a non-college setting. This mixed-methods study included an online survey ( N = 133) and open-ended survey ( N = 207) amongst victims of 18 years and older. The online survey data were analyzed using chi-square tests for independence and t-tests; the open-ended survey data were analyzed using a descriptive approach. The online survey data showed that minimization of the incident was higher for non-help-seekers, whilst distrust toward support providers and issues with the accessibility of help were higher for help-seekers. No further significant associations were found between the decision to seek help and the barriers to help-seeking. From the open-ended survey data, three categories of barriers were distinguished: (a) individual barriers, such as feelings of shame, (b) interpersonal barriers, such as the fear of negative social reactions and (c) sociocultural barriers, such as societal stereotypes regarding sexual violence. The findings suggest that victims experience various, but primarily individual, barriers to help-seeking and that these barriers do not strongly differ between help-seekers and non-help-seekers. This study highlights the importance of addressing barriers to help-seeking on an organizational and societal level to encourage help-seeking.
Predictors of Online Child Sexual Abuse in a U.S. National Sample
Authors: Turner Heather A. , Finkelhor David , Colburn Deirdre
Published: January 2023

As technology has become increasingly integrated into the everyday lives of young people and social interactions have moved online, so too have the opportunities for child sexual abuse. However, the risk factors for online sexual abuse, and their similarities or differences with those of offline sexual abuse have not been clarified, making it difficult to design prevention strategies. Using a nationally representative online survey panel of young adults ages 18 to 28, the current study sought to identify risk factors for online childhood sexual abuse and compare their relevance and strength in predicting offline sexual abuse. The 2,639 participants, ages 18 to 28, were sampled from the Ipsos KnowledgePanel and were asked questions about 11 different kinds of technology-facilitated online sexual abuse that occurred in childhood, follow-up questions about their dynamics and offenders, and a variety of potential risk factors. Results indicated that: (1) being cisgender female, nonheterosexual, and having parents with less than a high school education emerged as important demographic predictors of online child sexual abuse (OCSA); and (2) early offline sexual abuse was the strongest predictor of OCSA, when considering both its direct and indirect effects through online risky behavior. Findings suggest that prevention programs directed at reducing risk of sexual abuse, in general, are likely to be effective against online sexual abuse, provided they also incorporate efforts to educate youth on the need to avoid risky online behaviors.
Cryptocurrency Compensation: Look Before You Leap
Authors: Martin William Marty , Avdul David , Lopez Yvette
Published: January 2023

In recent years, cryptocurrency has begun to ascend as a worldwide phenomenon. As a result of its rising popularity, prospective and existing employees have taken an interest in receiving payment in cryptocurrency. This appeal has prompted compensation professionals and other leaders to consider incorporating cryptocurrency into their compensation strategies. While this form of payment may present as an innovative compensation plan, compensation professionals should be fully aware of the complexities involved and the potential challenges associated with its application. This article provides an overview of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, reasons why employees may want to be paid in cryptocurrency, pertinent legal/regulatory factors, administrative challenges for employers, associated risks, and recommendations for compensation professionals who may be considering integrating cryptocurrency into their compensation strategies.
Milk Calcium and Phosphorus in Ugandan Women with HIV on Tenofovir-Based Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Nabwire Florence , Hamill Matthew M. , Fowler Mary Glenn , Kekitiinwa Adeodata , Prentice Ann
Published: January 2023

Background:

Breastfed infants depend on human milk calcium and phosphorus for bone mineral accretion and growth. We reported greater mobilization of bone mineral and delayed skeletal recovery in lactating Ugandan women with HIV initiated on tenofovir-based antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy compared to HIV-uninfected counterparts in the Gumba Study. However, it is unknown if these disruptions in maternal bone metabolism affect milk mineral concentrations.

Research Aim:

To compare concentrations and patterns of change in milk calcium and phosphorus between lactating women with and without HIV.

Methods:

A longitudinal observational study was conducted to compare milk mineral concentrations between women with HIV receiving tenofovir-based ART and uninfected women in the Gumba Study. Milk collected at 2, 14, 26, and 52 weeks lactation was analyzed for calcium and phosphorus. Sodium and potassium were measured at 2 and 14 weeks to detect sub-clinical mastitis. Differences in milk composition between 84 women with HIV and 81 uninfected women were investigated.

Results:

Women with HIV had higher milk calcium than uninfected women at 14 weeks. The percent difference was +10.2% ( SE = 3.0, p = .008) and there was a tendency to greater values at 2 and 26 weeks. Milk calcium decreased in both groups during lactation ( p ≤ .001) but was more pronounced in women with HIV. The magnitude of change within individuals in the 1st year of lactation from 2 to 52 weeks was −28.3% ( SE 3.9) versus −16.5% ( SE 3.5), p for interaction = .05. Differences in milk phosphorus and calcium-to-phosphorus ratio were smaller and mostly not significant.

Conclusions:

Participants with HIV on tenofovir-based antiretroviral therapy had altered milk mineral composition. Studies are needed to investigate mechanisms and health implications for the woman and infant.
Regional Vulnerability of the Corpus Callosum in the Context of Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: VandeBunte Anna M. , Fonseca Corrina , Paolillo Emily W. , Gontrum Eva , Lee Shannon Y. , Kramer Joel H. , Casaletto Kaitlin B.
Published: January 2023

Many factors outside of cardiovascular health can impact the structure of white matter. Identification of reliable and clinically meaningful biomarkers of the neural effects of systemic and cardiovascular health are needed to refine etiologic predictions. We examined whether the corpus callosum demonstrates regional vulnerability to systemic cardiovascular risk factors. Three hundred and ninety-four older adults without dementia completed brain MRI, neurobehavioral evaluations, and blood draws. A subset ( n = 126, n = 128) of individuals had blood plasma analyzed for inflammatory markers of interest (IL-6 and TNF-alpha). Considering diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a particularly reliable measure of white matter integrity, we utilized DTI to examine fractional anisotropy (FA) of anterior and posterior regions of the corpus callosum. Using multiple linear regression models, we simultaneously examined FA of the genu and the splenium to compare their associations with systemic and cardiovascular risk factors. Lower FA of the genu but not splenium was associated with greater systemic and cardiovascular risk, including higher systolic blood pressure (β = –0.17, p = .020), hemoglobin A1C (β = –0.21, p = .016) and IL-6 (β = –0.34, p = .005). FA of the genu was uniquely associated with cognitive processing speed (β = 0.20, p = .0015) and executive functioning (β = 0.15, p = .012), but not memory performances (β = 0.05, p = .357). Our results demonstrated differential vulnerability of the corpus callosum, such that frontal regions showed stronger, independent associations with biomarkers of systemic and cardiovascular health in comparison to posterior regions. Posterior white matter integrity may not reflect cardiovascular health. Clinically, these findings support the utility of examining the anterior corpus callosum as an indicator of cerebrovascular health.
Achieving Workplace Wellbeing Among Indian IT Engineers
Authors: M Nimmi P. , Jakubik Maria
Published: January 2023

The predictors of millennials’ wellbeing at work keep on changing in lieu with their changing career and work orientation. This quantitative research paper focuses on Indian Information Technology employees and aims to identify how their changing career orientation impacts work wellbeing, psychological capital and perceived employability. The proposed conceptual model of protean career orientation is empirically tested among 411 Information Technology engineers working at private companies in India. Findings indicate that the changing career orientation has a positive impact on work wellbeing, psychological capital and perceived employability. The study contributes to vocational psychology literature on enhancing our knowledge on the importance of protean attitude among millennials. The paper indicates further research areas and implications for employers.
Healing Touch: A Strategy for Acute Care Nurses’ Stress Reduction
Authors: Rosamond Randy L. , Giarratano Gloria , Orlando Susan , Sumner Jane , Devier Deidre , McDaniel Lee S. , Wardell Diane Wind
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the study is to determine whether administering healing touch (HT) is more effective than deep breathing (DB) for reducing acute care nurses’ stress during a shift. A randomized cluster trial assessed 150 nurses’ vital signs and Visual Analog Scale for Stress (VASS) levels pre, post, and at follow-up to achieve a power of .7 and medium affect size. Open-ended questions following the intervention enriched quantitative findings describing the experience, facilitators, and barriers to potential use in nursing. The generalized estimating equation 1 (GEE1) comparisons of mean change over time, found that nurses in the HT intervention, had significantly lower VASS stress scores at posttreatment (−0.95, p  =  .0002) and at follow-up (−0.73, p  =  .0144) than the DB group, and the respiratory rate (RR) rate differences were nearly significant at post-intervention and significant at follow-up, respectively (1.36, p  =  .0568 and −2.28, p  =  .0011), indicating lower RR after HT. These findings support the use of HT as an effective stress reduction strategy as a relevant strategy to sustain a viable nurse work force post-COVID-19.
Meaning of sustainability of innovations in healthcare organizations: A systematic review
Authors: Gusmão Louredo Fernanda de Sousa , Raupp Eduardo , Araujo Cláudia Affonso Silva
Published: January 2023

Background

There is pressure on healthcare organizations to provide high-quality care to all patients while innovating the way care is delivered. As they take on the challenge of delivering high-quality, innovative services, any gains made tend to stall before a radical change impacts key outcomes given the difficulty in sustaining innovations over time.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in 5 electronic databases using the PRISMA structure that resulted in 1313 articles, of which 260 were duplicated, leaving 1053 articles. After reading their abstracts, 877 had an inadequate scope for analysis because they did not deal with research on the sustainability of innovations. After a full assessment of the remaining 176 articles, only 10 studies met the inclusion criteria with the snowball strategy generating one additional paper, leading to 11 empirical studies. A theoretical discussion and the proposition of a framework were used to analyze the data.

Results

Studies in university hospitals shed light on determining sustainability factors of innovations not yet fully explored such as the meaning given by individuals to innovation, culture, partnerships, and multidisciplinary collaboration, which complement the literature. This research sought to contribute to the dialogue between management theory and practice in studies on the sustainability of health innovations based on experiences observed in university hospitals. Health managers can verify how sustainability relates to the challenges presented and identify a path that helps them overcome the limitations imposed on the process. The literature shows that the understanding of sustainability as a mediating dimension can collaborate in sustained innovations in order to allow managers to identify actions related to the individual-organization dimension that may be compromising the process and thus act in a more efficient, assertive way in determining the factors that sustain ongoing innovations.

Conclusions

A relevant point is that innovation sustainability needs to be an objective to be achieved where managers/individuals must incorporate this perspective of innovation continuity since the beginning of the process, otherwise this may represent a greater propensity for discontinuity. This analysis can potentially be applied in university hospitals, but it can also be applicable to other types of hospitals and public or private institutions as long as it is an organization that adopts, implements, and seeks to sustain innovations in service delivery.
Mechanical properties evaluation of FFF-printed ABS samples based on different process parameters combined with ANOVA and regression analysis
Authors: Tyagi Bobby , Dubey Dushyant , Sahai Ankit , Swarup Sharma Rahul
Published: January 2023

The fused fabrication process (FFF), is one of the most popular additive manufacturing technologies used for prototyping and production applications. On the other hand, poor mechanical characteristics significantly impact the application of FFF parts, and a variety of process parameters can influence the effectiveness of parts produced with FFF. Infill density, layer thickness, print speed, and extrusion temperature are the essential FFF parameters for fabricating parts and the dimensional integrity of printed specimens. This research aims to examine the functional performance of ABS fabricated through FFF. The study’s various variables include extrusion temperature (230°C, 240°C, and 220°C), feed rate (20, 35, and 50 mm/s), and layer height (0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 mm). Based on various combinations, elongation at break, energy, tensile strength, and compressive strength will be assessed. The measured lowest tensile and compressive strengths are 25.252 and 38.52 MPa, respectively, and highest tensile and compressive strengths are 33.96 and 185.94 MPa, respectively. As a result, changing the different process variables increases tensile strength by 34.49% and compressive strength by 382.71%. Fractography analysis is also performed to understand the failure modes of specimens, indicating pulling, necking, failure of raster’s, and voids for the considered specimens. To examine the dependency and relationship of the tensile and compressive strength on the process parameters, statistical analysis is performed using ANOVA, Taguchi’s L27 array design of experiment, and regression analysis. It indicates that layer height has the most significant influence on tensile and compressive strength, followed by extrusion temperature and feed rate.
Numerical assessment of the effect of length, angle of attack, and type of ducts on hydrodynamic parameters of a linear-jet propulsion system
Authors: Donyavizadeh Negin , Ghadimi Parviz
Published: January 2023

Achieving noble and more practical propulsion systems is still a major concern for engineers and researchers. Accordingly, many researchers have strived to opt for better and suitable system for the targeted vessels. One of the marine propulsion systems is linear-jet propulsion which includes rotor and stator. In this paper, the effects of geometrical shape of the duct in the form of different length and angle of attack for two types of the accelerating and decelerating ducts are comprehensively explored. Furthermore, section of rotor from Kaplan series are selected and the geometrical shape effects of the rotor on hydrodynamic performance of linear-jet propulsion system are also investigated. Therefore, to obtain the effects of the expressed parameters on the hydrodynamic characteristics of this propulsion system, Ansys-CFX software has been used. The governing equations of the studied problem are RANS equations and SST k-omega turbulent model is utilized. The obtained results are presented in the form of dimensionless coefficients of the forces applied on the propulsion system. The existing data for a ducted propeller are used to validate the numerical solution. Based on the results of the numerical solution, it is concluded that use of a decelerating duct increases the efficiency of the linear-jet system. On the other hand, the use of accelerating ducts reduces the hydrodynamic efficiency of the linear jet, so the performance is not desirable at high advance ratio. Therefore, the use of decelerating ducts in the linear-jet system is found to be the appropriate choice. Results further illustrate that, if the duct length increases, the generated thrust by the rotor increases. It is also concluded that, by increasing the angle of attack of the decelerating duct, the overall efficiency of the linear-jet propulsion system decreases.
Mechanical and corrosion characteristics of 6061–T6 aluminum alloy samples reinforced with alumina micro and nanoparticles fabricated by friction stir processing
Authors: Karami Ramin , Abdollahi Mir Ali Asghar
Published: January 2023

The present study investigates the mechanical and corrosion properties of reinforced 6061[Formula: see text]T6 aluminum samples after friction stir processing. Three different composites are fabricated: one without any powder and the others with micrometer and nanometer alumina powder (Al2O3) as reinforcing particles. The hardness, tensile, and potentiodynamic polarization tests are performed to compare the new samples with the base metal. The results show that friction stir processing has increased the tensile and ultimate strength of the composites by an average of 181% compared to the base metal which is due to the microstructure changes including grain distribution refinement and the elimination of defects and micro-voids through localized plastic deformation. The strength of the composites with additives is significantly affected by the size of the particles. The hardness of the processed samples has also increased compared to the base metal by 200%. Despite these enhancements, the corrosion resistance of new samples has decreased by 70%, which can be due to the numerous dislocations in the stress-induced stir zone, creating lattice deformations and causing the breakdown of the passive protective layer. The analysis of fracture surface topography through a Fractography method revealed a specific anaglyph consisting of dimples of various shapes, sizes, and dispersion and further confirmed the tensile test results.
Graetz problem for the Rabinowitsch fluid model: A comparative analysis for circular tube and flat channel
Authors: Saeed Khan Muhammad W , Asghar Zeeshan , Ali Nasir , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: January 2023

The current set of themes related to the analysis of heat transfer by convection and heat transfer in a tube or channel is commonly referred to as the Graetz problem, which is to investigate the evolution of the temperature profile for a fluid flow in hydrodynamic developed laminar flow. The current research, in this regard, reports the Graetz problem for the constant wall(s) temperature case using the Rabinowitsch fluid model. The associated energy equation is solved via a classical separation of variable approach. The special case of the Rabinowitsch fluid model is also highlighted. The resultant boundary value problem is addressed computationally using the Matlab bvp4c function and the Runge–Kutta method. The real and positive eigenvalues along with the numerical solutions are obtained for the calculation of the temperature field. This study also explains that the Rabinowitsch model has both shear-thinning and shear-thickening effects. The impact of model parameters on mean temperature and Nusselt numbers are thoroughly examined with various graphs.
Simulation method for train curve derailment collision and the effect of curve radius on collision response
Authors: Li Zong-Zhi , Zhu Tao , Xiao Shou-Ne , Zhang Jing-Ke , Wang Xiao-Rui , Ding Hao-Xu
Published: January 2023

A method of collaborative simulation of the train collision process using a rigid motion model and a flexible collision model is proposed to solve the problem of the low computational efficiency of the finite element numerical simulation of the train collision process. This study investigated the collision response of a train derailment hitting a platform with different curve radii based on an accident in which a subway train derailed and hit a platform. Based on the results, a collision damage index is proposed to assess the relative degree of damage of train derailment collisions at different curve radii. The results reveal that within a certain radius of the curve (when the impact distance D exists), there is a positive correlation between the curve radius and the collision damage index, and when the curve radius exceeds a certain value (when the impact distance D doesn’t exist), the train and platform don’t collide.
La Vagabonde assise – space, place and the meaning of home in Colette and other women writers
Authors: Holmes Diana
Published: January 2023

Nick Hewitt wrote wonderfully well about the significance of different places in French history and culture, and in our lives. Colette was a chronicler of places, from the famous childhood house and garden in Burgundy, to Brittany, Provence and of course Paris. But as her writing moves across regions and houses, home recurs as a crucial place in the emotional landscape of a human life. Nick was also always attentive to the relationship between canonical and ‘minor’ authors, and to the interplay between socio-political moment and cultural production. In this article home is examined as a vital and recurring theme not only in the work of Colette but also in that of her lesser-known female contemporaries – for home as a place has particular practical and emotional meanings for women.
Assessment of the effectiveness of ventilation for gas turbine generator set safety
Authors: Dai Yunfan , Gao Chuang , Li Bao
Published: January 2023

Increasing global warming problems appeal to the employment of clean power generation machineries such as gas turbines. Gas turbine is gas-fired engine which is usually enclosed in an acoustic enclosure for higher reliability and lower operating noise. However, it may face the risk of fuel gas accumulation inside the package which can be extremely dangerous. For the safety of a gas turbine generator set, proper ventilation system is crucial to prevent it from danger by diluting the potential leaked gas. Inspired by the significance of ventilation, this paper aims to present and propose study for the assessment of the effectiveness of ventilation for gas turbine packages in worst-case gas leak. A 2 MW ZK2000 gas turbine was chosen for the study. Method of assessment was introduced and numerical studies by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) were adopted, including both transient and steady state analysis. Aiming to figure out the conditions for worst-case gas leak, the location of leak that may cause the most dangerous gas accumulation was obtained by identifying the poorly ventilated regions within the enclosure. After that, the leak rate was estimated that just to trigger the gas detector at the ventilation outlet according to ISO 21789. Worst-case gas leak simulations were performed in cold engine situation because of the possibility analysis of gas leak. The results at standard conditions show great compliance with the limited value in the code thus indicates that the capability of the current ventilation design. Effect of dilution was studied with various ambient temperatures and ventilation flow rates. One of the key findings is that the flow uniformity has the major impact on enhancing dilution of gas cloud. Structures improvements within enclosure and operation instructions were suggested for the safety of gas turbine unit in the event of gas leak.