bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on long-wheelbase vehicle path tracking control based on optimal heading angle
Authors: Li Wenbin , Pi Dawei , Wang Hongliang , Xie Boyuan
Published: June 2022

Path tracking control technology is a hot topic in the research of intelligent vehicles. It is an important link to realize intelligent transportation to solve the problem of path tracking control for long-wheelbase vehicles. Aiming at the problem that the vehicle body of long wheelbase is prone to collision with the surrounding environment due to the influence of the vehicle axle length in the process of turning, the overall deviation model of vehicle wheelbase and reference path is creatively proposed, and the optimal heading angle of long-wheelbase vehicle in the process of turning is determined by solving the maximum value of the overall deviation model. The MPC path tracking controller is established based on the deviation between the heading angle and the actual vehicle. Eventually established more than a typical working condition in MATLAB and TRUCKSIM joint simulation, to verify the proposed algorithm not only has realized the long-wheelbase vehicle path tracking control and front wheel position closer to the reference curve, effective in reducing long-wheelbase vehicle steering wheel swept area, in the process of reducing long-wheelbase vehicle steering and road environment in the process of collision probability. It improves the trafficability of long-wheelbase vehicles in narrow areas.
Characteristics study of electro-hydraulic load-sensing control system for mobile machines
Authors: Wu Jiaming , Wang Feng , Xu Bing , Sun Zongxuan
Published: June 2022

The hydro-mechanical load-sensing control is an efficient system solution to working function of mobile machines since the system pressure always adapts to the highest load pressure. The main issue of this system is its instability problem caused by hydro-mechanical feedback control. Moreover the pressure margin between system and load pressure set by the load-sensing compensator is usually fixed and has less control flexibility. Therefore, an electro-hydraulic load-sensing control system occurs, where the load pressure is sensed by pressure transducer and load-sensing control is achieved electronically. It eliminates the hydro-mechanical feedback control loop and has more control flexibility. The previous studies mainly focus on the system function, controller design and system efficiency. However the quantitative analysis of system characteristics has not yet been studied. Therefore, in this paper a method is provided to investigate the influences of pump displacement dynamics and preset pressure margin on system control performance. A hydraulic load-sensing control test rig is developed. Results show a good agreement between simulation and test results. The pressure margin fluctuation is reduced by using a pump with faster displacement dynamics and a larger cut-off frequency of load velocity control is obtained with a larger preset pressure margin however this results in lower system efficiency.
Intelligent temperature modeling in robotic cortical bone milling process based on teaching-learning-based optimization algorithm
Authors: Tahmasbi Vahid , Hossein Rabiee Amir
Published: June 2022

Bone milling is one of the most important and sensitive biomechanical processes in the field of medical engineering. This process is used in orthopedic surgery, dentistry, treatment of fractures, and bone biopsy. The use of automatic numerical control surgical milling machines has revolutionized this procedure. The most important possible complication in bone surgery is the rise of temperature above permissible range and the formation of thermal necrosis or cell death in bone tissue. In the present article, a study on the design of experiment is first conducted by considering the rotational speed of the utilized tool, feed rate, depth of cut and tool diameter as the most important input factors of this process. Then, an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) is developed to model and estimate the temperature behavior in the process of robotic bone milling. The optimal parameters of the ANFIS system are obtained using teaching-learning-based optimization (TLBO) algorithm. In order to model the process behavior, the results of experiments are used for the training (75% of the data) and testing (25% of the data) of the adaptive inference system. The accuracy of the obtained model is investigated via different plots, and statistical criteria, including root mean square error, correlation coefficient, and mean absolute percentage error. The findings show that the ANFIS network successfully predicts the temperature in the automatic bone milling process. In addition, the network error in estimating the temperature of the automatic bone milling process in the training and test section is equal to 1.74% and 3.17%, respectively.
A tip-leakage loss reduction method using a front-loaded blade profile for the high-pressure rotor of a vaneless counter-rotating turbine
Authors: Dong Tian-tian , Zhao Qing-jun , Sui Xiu-ming , Luo Wei-wei , Zhao Wei
Published: June 2022

To reduce tip-leakage losses, this paper presents a front-loaded blade profile design method for the high-pressure (HP) rotor of a highly loaded vaneless counter-rotating turbine (VCRT). The method is to decrease the blade exit angle and increase the stagger angle with unchanged throat area to obtain front-loaded blade profiles at both the tip-leakage vortex upper and lower boundaries. As the relative exit Mach numbers in the tip region of the VCRT’s HP rotor are all over 1.5, the shearing of the high-speed leakage jet and passage flow near the trailing edge is very strong. To reduce the shearing losses, decreasing the blade exit angle of the HP rotor is adopted to reduce the tip loading near the trailing edge. This means the leakage jet mass-flow rate and speed near the trailing edge are reduced. Hence, the shearing strength and losses of the leakage jet and passage flow near the trailing edge are lower. Since decreasing the blade exit angle of the HP rotor results in increased throat area, increasing the stagger angle is employed to maintain unchanged throat area. Increasing the stagger angle also reduces the tip loading near the trailing edge, leading to reduced high-speed leakage jet mass-flow rate. Thus, the shearing strength and losses of the high-speed leakage jet and passage flow near the trailing edge are further reduced. The efficiency of the HP rotor and VCRT are raised by 0.45% and 0.53% respectively.
Capturing minds: Towards a methods critique of questionnaire-based mental health surveys
Authors: Wackers Ger , Schille-Rognmo Marthe
Published: June 2022

Mental health surveys of general populations use psychometric instruments derived from psychiatric symptom checklists and assessment scales. Mental health surveys of this type have become so ubiquitous and influential that the psychometric methods that are at the heart of them seem to be beyond reproach. Are these the right tools to do the job of capturing the minds of general populations? This article pursues a critical assessment of psychometric instruments embedded in mental health surveys through a historical reconstruction of the major epistemic shifts in the investigative practices through which these psychometric instruments developed. The reconstruction traces a strong influence of physics and physicists’ notion of fundamental measurement of quantities on psychologists’ attempts to measure mental phenomena. Surveys employing these instruments inherit unresolved methodological issues from their psychophysical predecessors: problems of causal inference from mathematical abstractions (correlations) and reification of mental entities from theoretical concepts.
The sesquiterpenoid valerenic acid protects neuronal cells from the detrimental effects of the fungicide benomyl on apoptosis and DNA oxidation
Authors: Kara Mehtap , Öztaş Ezgi , Boran Tuğçe , Sevim Çiğdem , Keskin Seda Eren , Veskoukis Aristidis S , Kuzmin Sergei V , Tsatsakis Aristides M
Published: June 2022

Background

Valerenic acid (VA), a sesquiterpenoid of the plant Valeriana officinalis, has attracted attention of the research community due to its potential positive role against neurodegenerative diseases induced by chemicals. However, the relevant evidence in the literature is scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the putative protective role of VA on the toxic effects of the fungicide benomyl on SH-SY5Y neural cells.

Methods

Cell viability was determined via the MTT and NRU assays, DNA damage was assessed via comet assay and apoptosis was evaluated through the expression of relevant genes.

Results

According to the results, exposure of the cells to benomyl enhanced viability inhibition and promoted DNA damage and apoptosis since the expression levels of the genes coding for MAPK8, NF-kB, Bax, Caspase-9 and Caspase-3 were increased. Treatment of the cells with VA ameliorated these effects in a concentration dependent manner.

Conclusion

It is concluded that the molecular mechanism through which benomyl exerts its toxic action appears to depend on DNA oxidation and apoptosis induction. Furthermore, VA, a plant-derived compound is a protective antioxidant against pesticide-induced toxicity. Therefore, herbs, extracts and compounds of plant origin could be used as nutritional supplements that back up the beneficial role of medicine in neurodegenerative diseases.
Constructing Craving: Applying the Theory of Constructed Emotion to Urge States
Authors: Wilson Stephen J.
Published: June 2022

Craving (a strong desire to ingest a substance or engage in an activity) is an important topic of study in the field of psychology. Along with being a key symptom of addiction, craving is a potent source of motivation for a wide range of appetitive behaviors. In this article, I offer a perspective regarding the nature of craving that is rooted in the theory of constructed emotion, a contemporary model of how emotions are created by the brain. According to this perspective, a state of craving emerges when the brain makes predictions that categorize sensory inputs as an instance of craving on the basis of prior experience and the context in which the inputs occur. Using the theory of constructed emotion as a guiding framework, I review various lines of evidence that provide support for this idea. In addition, I offer recommendations for future research that stem from the hypothesis that instances of craving are constructed by the brain in an experience-dependent and situation-specific manner.
Cessation of group battlefield acupuncture visits due to COVID-19: a pilot study
Authors: McNamara Cynthia F , Kravetz Jeffrey D , Federman Daniel G
Published: June 2022

Background:

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, battlefield acupuncture (BFA) was offered to veterans with chronic pain in multidisciplinary group visits.

Objective:

We aimed to assess the impact of cessation of BFA due to COVID-19 and to determine the utility of different aspects of the group visits for chronic pain management.

Methods:

Participants who had attended at least three BFA group visits completed questionnaires assessing the impact of treatment interruption on pain, overall function and desire to resume treatment.

Results:

Thirty-nine veterans were surveyed; 49% responded to the questionnaire. Ninety percent (17/19) agreed that BFA was an important part of pain management and that their pain had worsened after treatment interruption. Seventy-four percent (14/19) responded that they were taking more pain medications since BFA had ended. Ninety-five percent (18/19) responded that BFA improved daily function; 79% (15/19) agreed that BFA improved their sleep. Ninety-five percent (18/19) were interested in resuming BFA. Camaraderie was mentioned as the most helpful aspect of the group by 8/19 (42%) of participants. Participation of health psychology and nutrition were each mentioned as a most helpful aspect of the group by 5/19 (26%) of participants.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that participants may have believed that BFA, camaraderie, and input from nutrition and health psychology services were important contributors to their pain control. The results also suggest that veterans may have suffered worsening pain, used more pain medications, and had worsening quality of sleep and daily function during the COVID-related clinic disruption, and that they were interested in resumption of the program.
Brand Love for Sports Apparels Among Indians: A Triangular Theory of Love Perspective
Authors: Thomas Tijo , Jain Dikshitha S.
Published: June 2022

This study aims to evaluate the concept of brand love among the Indians in sports apparel industry. Drawing on Sternberg’s (1986) triangular theory of love, we propose a three-dimensional brand love model. We further discuss the interrelationship between these variables and provide a theoretical model for explaining the concept using sports apparels. Then, this theoretical model is tested using empirical research undertaken among 327 respondents. These exploratory results indicated that the concept of brand love in India is similar to that of interpersonal love, contradicting the earlier finding in the field of brand love. These contradicting findings were attributed to the cultural differences between Eastern and Western cultures, especially in the field of extended self (Markus & Kitayama, 1991). These findings create the possibility for future research into brand love via the triangular theory of love to understand how the changes in the perceptions of self influence the brand love.
Institutional Strengthening of Farmer Producer Organizations and Empowerment of Small Farmers in India: Evidence from a Case Study in Maharashtra
Authors: Lalitha N. , Viswanathan P. K. , Vinayan Soumya
Published: June 2022

Small and marginal farmers contribute significantly to agricultural production and livelihoods all over the world. The small size of operational holdings, however, makes them highly susceptible to market risks leading to low levels of farm income. The farmer producer organizations (FPOs) are considered as effective mechanisms as they give voice to the small farmers, help overcome the challenges, by reducing the transaction costs and improving market access. However, in India, farmer collectives suffer from several institutional and structural impediments that affects their performance and thereby not resulting in empowerment and wellbeing of the farmers. In this regard, this article discusses the role of FPOs based on an empirical case study of Sahyadri Farmers Producer Company Ltd (SFPCL) from Maharashtra. The case study analyses the specificities of a private initiative such as Sahyadri, which focuses on making farming viable for farmers with small holdings in particular. The Sahyadri model contributes building the social capital of the farmers and improving the farm income and sustainable livelihoods. The article uses logistic regression to determine the factors influencing collective action and the Cobb–Douglas (CD) Production function to highlight the economic benefits realized by the farmers from being members of the Farmers Producer Company in case of Sahyadri in Maharashtra.
Friction variable rubber pad using magnetorheological elastomer for robot grippers
Authors: Park Jae-Eun , Shin Ha-Neul , Park Jihyuk , Suh Juwon , Kim Young-Keun
Published: June 2022

This paper is focused on developing a friction-variable rubber pad using magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) for robot gripper applications. Tribological experiments were conducted on the designed rubber pad to analyze the friction variation on various surface types such as plastics, aluminum, and glass. Experimental results showed that the frictional coefficient can be varied as much as 40% when a magnetic field of 250 mT was applied. Furthermore, prototypes of robot grippers with MRE pads were manufactured and tested to analyze the translation and rotation friction force control in grabbing, releasing, and turning an object. Experiments confirmed that the proposed robot gripper pad can control the overall friction force by more than 48%, validating the applicability of the MRE pads for robotic applications.
Predictive Value of Systemic Immune-Inflammation index and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with Severe COVID-19
Authors: Xia Wei , Tan Yafeng , Hu Shengmei , Li Chengbin , Jiang Tao
Published: June 2022

Objective: It was initially reported that a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) had been identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.To date, COVID-19 is still threatening all humanity and has affected the public healthcare system and the world economic situation. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has also been demonstrated that associated with severity of COVID-19, but little is known about systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) relation with COVID-19. Methods: One hundred and twenty-five patients with diagnosed COVID-19 including non-severe cases (n = 77) and severe cases (n = 48) were enrolled in this study. Each patient of clinical characteristic information, blood routine parameters, and the haemogram-derived ratios were collected, calculated, and retrospectively analyzed. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) was performed to investigate whether these parameters could be used to the predictive value of patients with severe COVID-19. Results: White blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil count (NEU), red cell volume distribution width (RDW), NLR, Platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (NPR), and SII were significantly higher in the severe groups than in the non-severe group (p < 0.01).Conversely, the severe group had a markedly decreased lymphocyte count, basophil (Baso#) count, red blood cell count (RBC), Hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) (P < 0.01).ROC curve analysis showed the AUC, optimal cut-off value, sensitivity, specificity of NLR and SII to early predict severe-patients with COVID-19 were 0.867, 7.25, 70.83%, 92.21% and 0.860, 887.20, 81.25%, 81.82%, respectively. Conclusion The results suggest that the SII and NLR is a potential new diagnosed biomarker in severe-patients with COVID-19.
A broadband low-frequency muffler based on neural network method and Helmholtz resonator with helical neck
Authors: Bai Chungeng , Wu Fengmin , Wang Junjun , Jiang Jiuxing , Yang Bin
Published: June 2022

In this study, a design method of broadband low-frequency muffler based on NN method and Helmholtz resonators with helical necks is proposed, which ensures almost perfect ventilation and broadband sound insulation in the low- and medium-frequency range. First, the sound insulation performance of the muffler is improved by adding a helical structure at the port. The slit Helmholtz resonator with a helical structure is able to reduce the cross-sectional area of the resonator port and increase the contact area of thermal viscosity loss, thus reducing the peak frequency of sound insulation and increasing the sound energy loss. Using finite element analysis software, the structural transmission loss is simulated. At the same time, the neural network method is used to predict the combined structure, then, the combined structure can be designed quickly and reasonably to achieve the sound insulation of medium- and low-frequency broadband. Experimental and simulation results show that in the target range of 430 Hz–2220 Hz, the overall TL exceeds 30 dB and the maximum exceeds 60 dB. In addition, when a helical structure is added, the overall pipeline remains unchanged; and when a muffler is added on the basis, the perfect ventilation effect can be achieved. The proposed structural model and the idea of rapid design lay a great foundation for the design and optimization of broadband muffler.
What patient assessment skills do pharmacist independent prescribers require to prescribe immunomodulators in myeloma?
Authors: Slavin Anton , Kurdi Amanj , Wilson Mandy
Published: June 2022

Aim

To gain consensus on the patient assessment skills required by pharmacist independent prescribers prescribing immunomodulators in myeloma across National Health Service Scotland.

Methods

This was a two-phase study which used nominal group technique to gain local consensus followed by a two-round eDelphi questionnaire to gain national consensus across all cancer networks.

Setting

This project was conducted across the three cancer networks within NHS Scotland: South East Scotland Cancer Network; West of Scotland Cancer Network and North Cancer Alliance.

Subjects

Participants were invited from each cancer network (South East Scotland Cancer Network, West of Scotland Cancer Network and North Cancer Alliance) and included haematology consultants, haematology specialist registrars, haematology advanced nurse practitioners and haematology pharmacists.

Results

There were five participants in the nominal group technique. Twenty-two out of 31 patient assessment skills gained local consensus, seven patient assessment skills did not gain consensus and two patient assessment skills were deemed irrelevant. There were 12 and 14 participants in round one and two of the eDelphi questionnaire, respectively. Twenty-nine patient assessment skills were included in the first-round questionnaire and 21 gained consensus. The remaining eight patient assessment skills were included in round two where seven did not achieve consensus and one achieved disagreement consensus.

Conclusion

This research outlines 21 patient assessment skills required for pharmacist independent prescribers to prescribe immunomodulators for myeloma patients according to haematology specialists in Scotland. Discussion on patient assessment skills without consensus showed that the pharmacist independent prescribers would have a shared responsibility with the consultant. This work should inform the development of a competency framework to allow training of pharmacist independent prescribers in Scotland. Some patient assessment skills could be transferrable for pharmacist independent prescribers prescribing systemic anti-cancer therapy for other haematological malignancies.
Investigating infill density and pattern effects in additive manufacturing by characterizing metamaterials along the strain-gradient theory
Authors: Aydin Gokhan , Sarar B Cagri , Yildizdag M Erden , Abali B Emek
Published: June 2022

Infill density used in additive manufacturing incorporates a structural response change in the structure. Infill pattern creates a microstructure that affects the mechanical performance as well. Whenever the length ratio of microstructure to geometry converges to one, metamaterials emerge and the strain-gradient theory is an adequate model to predict metamaterials response. All metamaterial parameters are determined by an asymptotic homogenization, and we investigate the effects of infill density and pattern on these parameters. In order to illuminate the role of infill characteristics on the strain-gradient parameters, an in-depth numerical investigation is presented for one, widely used case in three-dimensional (3D) printers, rectangular grid.
Seismic barriers filled with solid elastic and granular materials: Comparative analysis
Authors: Bratov Vladimir , Kuznetsov Sergey , Morozov Nikita
Published: June 2022

A comparative study of the vertical seismic barriers intended for protecting from Rayleigh seismic waves and filled with (1) homogeneous linearly elastic materials and (2) granular metamaterials, is done by the finite-element (FE) modeling. The granular metamaterial obeys the Mohr–Coulomb plasticity model with the associated flow rule, low cohesion value, and small internal friction and dilation angles. The performed numerical analysis reveals a principal ability achieving much higher reduction ratios for magnitudes of accelerations along with much longer shadow zones behind the barrier for barriers filled with metamaterials in comparison with the purely elastic homogeneous barriers.
The short external rotators in the anterior approach hip arthroplasty: do the tendons heal or not? A prospective MRI study
Authors: Eilander Wouter , van der Velden Eeke , van Harten Matthijs , van Kampen Paulien , Hogervorst Tom
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Release of some of the short external rotator tendons may be needed in the direct anterior approach (DAA) for Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). It is unknown if these tendons heal. The purpose of this prospective study is to examine short external rotator tendon healing after release and the associated effect on muscle volume. In addition, we examined the relation with external rotation force and patient reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Methods:

In 21 DAA THA patients, preoperative MRI was compared with postoperative MRI at 6 weeks and 12 months. PROMs and rotation force of both hips were assessed. Tendon integrity and muscle volume of the obturator internus and piriformis were assessed on MRI using dedicated software.

Results:

In 5 patients all tendons remained intact, in 4 patients only the conjoined tendon was released and in 12 patients both the conjoined and piriformis were released. Obturator externus remained intact in all patients. In patients with tendon release, mean volume of obturator internus and piriformis muscle decreased 27% (SD 11) and 23% (SD 16) 6 weeks after surgery, respectively. Released tendons and muscle volume loss did not recover 12 months after surgery. We found no relation between tendon release and hip rotation force or PROMs.

Conclusions:

We found absent tendon healing and muscle volume loss when the conjoined or piriformis tendons were released. Although we found no relation between tendon detachment and hip force or PROMs, we have adapted our operative technique to make it more preserving for the piriformis.
Two years’ effect of dimethyl fumarate on focal and diffuse gray matter pathology in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Marastoni Damiano , Crescenzo Francesco , Pisani Anna I , Zuco Carmela , Schiavi Gianmarco , Benedetti Giulia , Ricciardi Giuseppe K , Montemezzi Stefania , Pizzini Francesca B , Tamanti Agnese , Calabrese Massimiliano
Published: June 2022

Background:

Data on the effect of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) on focal and diffuse gray matter (GM) damage, a relevant pathological substrate of multiple sclerosis (MS)-related disability are lacking.

Objective:

To evaluate the DMF effect on cortical lesions (CLs) accumulation and global and regional GM atrophy in subjects with relapsing–remitting MS.

Methods:

A total of 148 patients (mean age 38.1 ± 9.7 years) treated with DMF ended a 2-year longitudinal study. All underwent regular Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS assessment), and at least two 3T-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3 and 24 months after DMF initiation. CLs and changes in global and regional atrophy of several brain regions were compared with 47 untreated age and sex-matched patients.

Results:

DMF-treated patients showed lower CLs accumulation (median 0[0–3] vs 2[0–7], p < 0.001) with respect to controls. Global cortical thickness ( p < 0.001) and regional thickness and volume were lower in treated group (cerebellum, hippocampus, caudate, and putamen: p < 0.001; thalamus p = 0.03). Lower relapse rate (14% vs 40%, p < 0.001), EDSS change (0.2 ± 0.4 vs 0.4 ± 0.9, p < 0.001), and new WM lesions (median 0[0–5] vs 2[0–6], p < 0.001) were reported. No severe adverse drug reactions occurred.

Conclusions:

Beyond the well-known effect on disease activity, these results provide evidence of the effect of DMF through reduced progression of focal and diffuse GM damage.
Moving up the stream beyond resistance to counter move
Authors: Campill Marc Antoine , Tsuchimoto Teppei
Published: June 2022

In the following paper, we aim for an extended understanding of the most crucial phenomena itself, the generation of meaning in the interaction with—what we describe as reality. The cultural psychological core principles are re-introduced and connected to a new more holistic construction, elaborating the generation of new meaning. In the same context, new terminology will be introduced, crucial for the understanding of the from phenomenology generated perspective toward cognitive processes and their interrelation with the everyday life. Borders not only as separator but also as deep connector of meaning are for this purpose explored and reintroduced. A procedure that led to central understandings that go far beyond the simple definitions accessible in dictionaries. As significant organic metaphor the river and the meadow (Towards a wholistic model of identity: Why not a meadow? Integrative Psychological and Behavioral Science, 55(1), 112–127. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-020-09588-3) will be used and extended by the rabbit hole, a triggered process extending the imagination of individuals by the central counter movement against streams and Gegenstände.
Articulative labor in assembling protest networks in the disjointed WeChatsphere: Rethinking human and non-human agency in digitally mediated activism
Authors: Cao Hao
Published: June 2022

Recent scholarship indicates that the rise of networked grassroots protests points to a new mode of organizing activism, connective action. Unlike social movement organization-led collective actions, connective actions are organized by non-human agents – digital networks and platforms – because of the latter’s inherent connectivity in assembling people, information and resources scattered across digital spaces into relatively cohesive protest networks. Yet, not all digital platforms are designed to afford unlimited connections; ‘walled gardens’ and proprietary systems disconnect more than connecting. WeChat, a China-based social media platform, spearheads in engineering an enclosed digital ecosystem, due to China’s political economy. How can protest networks develop in such an insulated environment? This study examines a WeChat-based protest campaign organized mainly by Chinese Americans to illustrate the organizing dynamics on disconnected platforms. Relying on interviews, observation and textual analysis, the findings show that WeChat, instead of acting as a non-human organizer, disorganized the mobilization by impeding the free flow of information and resources. To head off the platform-led barriers, activists performed articulative labor to cross boundaries, bridge gaps and broker resources, which finally articulated the protest network in this digitally disconnective environment. As contemporary digital landscapes become increasingly fragmented, this study not only sheds light on the significant yet hidden articulative labor in networked activism but also prompts us to rethink connective action and other technological deterministic models’ valorization of non-human agency and to reconsider the relationship of human and non-human agency in constituting collective actions and sociality in general.
Mediatization of tabletop role-playing: The intertwined cases of Critical Role and D&D Beyond
Authors: Švelch Jan
Published: June 2022

Tabletop role-playing has grown from a niche of analog gaming into a mainstay of popular culture. The original face-to-face way of playing has been complemented by online play using dedicated digital tools, and play itself has become spectator entertainment. In this article, I explore the process of mediatization of tabletop role-playing on the example of Critical Role – the most successful ‘actual play’ show, in which performers broadcast tabletop role-playing to audiences. I highlight the importance of commodification as a force in the process of mediatization, involving licensing, merchandising, and advertising. Empirically, the article is grounded in an analysis of Critical Role’s sponsorships and embodied player practices, focusing on the political-economic aspects of the show. While Critical Role presents a profoundly mediated form of tabletop role-playing, it promotes a traditional face-to-face way of playing using physical accessories both by cast members’ preference of such accessories (except for the digital toolset D&D Beyond) and sponsorships from manufacturers of these products. Mediatization of tabletop role-playing thus happens through an economic-driven process of addition – new mediated options for players with new opportunities for commodification exist alongside analog modes of consumption. As shown on the example of Critical Role, the digital and mediated forms of the analog hobby can be harnessed to promote physical consumerism.
Grisi Siknis: A cultural idiom of gender-based violence and structural inequalities in eastern Nicaragua
Authors: Venegas Maria D.
Published: June 2022

For the Miskitu of Nicaragua, Grisi Siknis is a contagious illness that predominantly affects women. It is characterized by numerous psychosomatic symptoms, including headache, fear, aggressive behavior, loss of consciousness, and periods of rapid frenzy. Although Grisi Siknis has gained academic and public attention due to its unique cultural elements and perceived sexual aspects, little is known how the contextual and gender dimensions of Grisi Siknis are played out in relation to the socio-political context in the region. Based on 16 months of ethnographic work in the Nicaraguan Miskitu Coast, including semi-structured interviews (n = 20) and participant observation, this article documents a semantic shift in the embodied and symbolic language of a cultural idiom of distress. I show how duhindu (Miskitu spirit associated with illness and misfortune) and witchcraft are symbols that share cultural resonance in the Miskitu community, while gender violence discourse is a new language incorporated into the logic of this cultural idiom of distress. I argue that this semantic shift allows the individuals in this study to communicate local experiences of complex forms of structural inequalities (migration status, unemployment, ethnic identity) and gender-based violence that tend to be normalized as a ubiquitous cultural problem while preserving the broader socio-cultural meaning the Grisi Siknis represents. The ethnographic accounts of Grisi Siknis provide empirical data to unpack the unexplored contextual processes and local discourses that transform the meaning and logic of cultural idioms of distress at the individual level of experience.
Platforms, politics and precarity: Hong Kong television workers amid the new techno-nationalist media agenda
Authors: Tse Tommy , Shum Holy Hoi-Ki
Published: June 2022

In contrast to the infrastructural properties of Western media platforms aiming at market power expansion, the digital platform model in China is designed and developed with a techno-nationalist media agenda. In the case of Hong Kong, we look into how exactly the platformisation process restructures and interacts with its surrounding cultural, economic, political and social activities. This article contributes to the Creative Labour Studies by analysing the intricate linkages between the city’s unique socio-historical, technological and political trajectories and the lived dynamics of television work. Through in-depth interviews with Hong Kong TV workers, we reinstitute the techno-political to the analytical lens of Creative Labour Studies. We posit that the ebb and flow of Hong Kong’s TV industry and its creative labour process are not just guided by economic considerations under global media platformisation, but also uniquely entangled with its historical legacies, socio-technical contexts, and political and ideological framework. Our empirics show how the conflicting strategies directed by both the platformised business models and an unprecedented techno-nationalist media agenda generate ambiguity and inconsistency in daily TV operations. The elevated self-censorship and loss of editorial autonomy alongside the rapid media platformisation reinforce a normative ‘moralist regime’ creating specific forms of precarity and dissatisfaction among Hong Kong TV workers, undermining the development of the creative industry and a creative career. But the changing techno-political conditions also alter TV workers’ perceived nature, functionality and value of creative work, enacting a self-governed ‘ethical regime’ in their professional practices, and open up new creative opportunities.
A “soul” emerges when AI, AR, and Anime converge: A case study on users of the new anime-stylized hologram social robot “Hupo”
Authors: Leo-Liu Jindong , Wu-Ouyang Biying
Published: June 2022

By converging 3A—artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and anime culture, a new type of non-naturalistic and stylized anthropomorphism has been exercised on the latest hologram social robot—“Hupo.” By combining scopes of human–machine communication and cultural studies, this study investigated how this 3A convergence constructed the user experience of Hupo. Through in-depth interviews with 25 users, we revealed their expected experience related to the dual identity of anime otaku and technology geeks alongside social segregation and loneliness. We found their actual experience highlighted how anime elements offset their dissatisfactions caused by AI weakness and the uncanny valley. Three specific anime-enabled strategies were illustrated, namely anime characterization, gamification, and idolization. Our analysis suggested that pop culture offers not technical solutions but temporary compensation for the current AI limitations. Nevertheless, such fusions between anime otakuism and instinct-served technologies also raise concerns about a further animalized human society.
Numerical investigations on the influence of double ramps in a strut based scramjet combustor
Authors: Athithan A Antony , Jeyakumar S
Published: June 2022

This numerical study addresses the performance of double ramps in a strut injection scramjet combustor. Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) equations with the Shear Stress Transport SST k-[Formula: see text] turbulence model are used for numerical analysis. The dual ramps are located symmetrically at the top and bottom wall of a scramjet combustor downstream of the strut injector. The influence of the location of ramps in the scramjet combustor is analyzed based on the key parameters such as shock waves, static pressures, and temperature distribution across the combustor, which are verified with available DLR scramjet experimental data that show similar acceptable values within the range. Simulation is extended for the investigation of other configurations. The performance of the scramjet configurations has been analyzed using the variables such as shock patterns, Mach number contours, wall static pressures, mass fractions of the reactants and products, combustion efficiency, and stagnation pressure loss of combustor. Numerical shadowgraph indicates that numerous shock reflections occur for the dual ramp cases that decelerate the combustor’s flow downstream. In addition, the recirculation regions are created for the dual ramp cases, which help in anchoring the flame. The static pressure distributions show the variation of peaks due to shock patterns and their interactions. The combustion efficiency increases as the ramps are positioned downstream of the strut injector. The mass fractions of reactants and products indicate complete combustion of the hydrogen issued from the combustor in the vicinity of the cavities. The total pressure loss for the DLR strut model is comparatively lower than dual ramp cases due to the multiple shocks from the ramp decelerating the flow downstream of the combustor.
The effects of variable excess air ratio and ignition timing on the performance and exhaust emissions in a direct injection Hydrogen-CNG fueled engine
Authors: Zareei Javad , Ghadamkheir Kourosh
Published: June 2022

This study investigates a direct injection (DI) engine fueled with compressed natural gas (CNG) enrichment with hydrogen blend (HCNG) in counter from the conversion of the port injection gasoline engine. The intention of the investigation was to examine the performance and exhaust gases from the effect of excess air ratio and timing angle changes in consequence of hydrogen increment to natural gas in comparison to gasoline engine performance and exhaust gases as a single fuel. The compression ratio was set at 14:1 with varying load at 3000 rpm, and the ignition timing was applied at −17, −19, −21, and −34°bTDC at WOT, and the amount of hydrogen enrichment to natural gas was applied at 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The conditions on torque, power, heat release rate, brake specific fuel consumption, CO, and NOx were studied. Results showed that the power and torque increased by 8% with increasing the hydrogen content to 40% in fuel composition and advancing ignition timing and heat release rate as well as decreasing λ from 1.4 to 1.2 relative to the stoichiometric state. Also, the specific fuel consumption decreased by 18.5% in the optimal condition.
Evacuation simulation of an Ro-Ro passenger ship considering the effects of inclination and crew’s guidance
Authors: Fang Siming , Liu Zhengjiang , Zhang Shengquan , Wang Xinjian , Wang Yihang , Ni Shengke
Published: June 2022

The emergency scenarios of passenger ships are reproduced unrealistically by evacuation drills due to cost and safety limitations, and model simulation is an effective alternative method. To study the evacuation efficiency of an inclined ship, a deck of a Ro-Ro ship with 1065 passengers was modeled on a simulation platform developed based on a social force model (SFM). A series of inclined scenarios were produced by adding the walking speed attenuation factor to the individual parameters. Furthermore, the influence of crew’s guidance was considered in this model, and the effects on evacuation were also analyzed for the entire deck. The simulation results show that the larger the inclination angle is, the more evacuation time that is needed. When the largest inclination angle was 20°, the evacuation time increased by 32.6%. In addition, the participation of crew’s guidance in all of these scenarios significantly accelerated the evacuation efficiency, and this benefit was achieved by the evaluation of the exit flow and congestion level by crew. However, organizing orderly evacuations as soon as possible when the inclination angle is less than 15° and making maximum efforts to ensure evacuation success are still recommended. The findings provide useful insights into a large group of Ro-Ro passenger vessels under inclined emergency evacuation.
Chinese parents’ experiences of reading English storybooks to preschool children: A case in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Liu Yingsheng
Published: June 2022

This study investigated Chinese parents’ experiences of reading English storybooks to their preschool children. While the spread of English as a global language is associated with an increasing emphasis on English education, few studies have examined its impact on the early home literacy practices in non-English speaking countries. With the most English learners in the world, China has an increasing number of parents making an early start for children to learn English. This study followed the tripartite framework of Family Language Policy (FLP) to examine Chinese parents’ beliefs, practices and management in early storybook reading activities. In-depth interviews with 20 parents in Guangzhou revealed that parents’ English reading practices are language-oriented with utilitarian language ideologies. Parents’ reading practices and management were identified with contextual constraints, including non-English speaking environments, parents’ inadequate English proficiency and knowledge of selecting English storybooks. Our findings highlight the impact of English globalization on the educational practices in local families with implications for educational practitioners in countries with similar changing sociolinguistic landscapes.
Visibility of the phantom array effect at different LED colour temperatures under high-frequency temporal light modulation
Authors: Kang HR , Kim JG , Park SW , Lee C-S , Pak H
Published: June 2022

LEDs are widely used for both general and automotive lighting since their brightness can be easily regulated by controlling their on/off time using methods such as pulse width modulation (PWM). However, lighting control using PWM can cause temporal light artefacts, such as the phantom array effect, which affect human visual perception. In this study, we determined the influence of different colour temperatures on the visibility of the phantom array effect using five LEDs with different spectral distributions (red, green, blue, warm white and cool white) and frequencies of temporal modulation ranging from 1 kHz to 11 kHz. The threshold of the warm white LED was between that of the green and red LEDs, and threshold of the cool white LED was between that of the red and blue LEDs. The experimental results revealed a difference in the threshold frequency of the visibility of the phantom array effect, in accordance with the spectral distribution and the colour temperature of the light source.
Palliative Repair of a Mycotic Aortic Arch Pseudoaneurysm With a Physician-Modified Endograft and In-Situ Laser Fenestration
Authors: Hill Morgan A. , Wooster Mathew , Zeigler Sanford
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Open aortic arch repair is the gold standard in the treatment of diseases involving the ascending aorta and aortic arch. However, due to the invasive nature of open repair, high-risk patients with multiple comorbidities are often not suitable candidates for open surgical repair. While endovascular aortic repair is far less invasive, endovascular arch repair remains a difficult challenge due to the aortic arch diameter and angulation, origin of the supra-aortic arteries, and the lack of commercially available thoracic branched devices in the United States.

Case Report:

Here we describe palliation of a mycotic aortic arch pseudoaneurysm with a physician-modified endograft and in situ laser fenestration. Our technique allowed for rapid repair of the pseudoaneurysm with minimal physiologic disturbances and no perioperative complications in a high-risk surgical patient.

Conclusion:

Physician-modified endografts are feasible and may be an effective treatment option for palliation of acute aortic arch lesions in high-risk surgical patients.
Interpreting the Political, Politicizing Interpretation: Doing Politically Sensible Social Science Research
Authors: Krienke Nina
Published: June 2022

The article outlines a methodological concept of political sensibility, building upon the political difference theory. Merging the ideas of the associative and dissociative theoretical branches of political difference literature, first, an integrated framework of the political condition is presented. From this, analytical dimensions are derived, namely, the associative/dissociative, the political/apolitical/discontentious, the static/processual, and the vertical/horizontal dimensions of the political. Second, the interpretive and ontological turns in social science are conceptualized, according to this framework, as a politicization of science. Taking this motion further, third, ideas to enact a politically sensible science are developed along the methodologically turned dimensions (merging the second and the third to an acknowledging/acting dimension). A political sensibility could deliver analytical categories to look upon political phenomena beyond structurally limited conceptions of “politics.” Methodologically, it could ease designing situated social science research, that is, research that consciously conceives of itself as part of the social realities it studies.