bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting bilingual foreign language learning advantages: The role of extramural exposure
Authors: Tribushinina Elena , Boz Betül , Aalbers Vera , Blom Elma
Published: January 2024

Aims and objectives:

Prior research shows that bilingual pupils may have foreign language learning advantages over monolinguals, but evidence is controversial. Investigating English as a foreign language (EFL) in the context of the Netherlands, we hypothesized that the conflicting findings may be partly explained by differences in extramural EFL exposure. We further predicted that amount and length of EFL exposure might moderate the effects of bilingualism on EFL learning and cross-language relationships between English and the previously acquired languages.

Approach:

Twelve- to 14-year-old Turkish–Dutch bilinguals ( n = 30) and Dutch monolinguals ( n = 31) participated. The Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test was used to measure receptive vocabulary in English, Dutch, and Turkish. Grammatical ability was measured with a sentence repetition task. A questionnaire was used to obtain information on children’s language exposure.

Data and analysis:

Data were analyzed by means of multilevel linear regression. Amount and length of extramural exposure were used as control variables in the analyses comparing EFL skills of bilinguals and monolinguals. The role of exposure as a moderator of bilingual effects and cross-language relationships was also tested.

Findings/conclusions:

If differences in exposure were not taken into account, the bilinguals were outperformed by the monolinguals on EFL vocabulary, but not on grammar. However, the between-group difference disappeared once exposure measures were controlled for. Bilinguals with little exposure to English performed worse than monolingual peers, but at higher exposure levels, bilinguals outperformed monolinguals. In the bilingual sample, Dutch vocabulary predicted English vocabulary, but Turkish proficiency did not predict English skills.

Originality:

This is the first study to include measures of extramural exposure in investigating the effects of bilingualism on EFL learning. Significance/implications: This research shows that differences between monolingual and bilingual EFL learners can be either concealed or inflated if exposure is not controlled for. Furthermore, exposure moderates bilingual effects in EFL learning.
The misogynist incel in the news: Analysing representations of gender-based violence in Britain
Authors: Bengtsson Meuller Elsa
Published: January 2024

The Plymouth shooting in August 2021 attracted worldwide attention after media outlets reported on it as ‘incel violence’. By examining misogynist incels’ discussions of the shooting, the perpetrator’s YouTube videos, and media reportage by five UK newspapers, this article takes a critical look at newspapers’ representations of the shooting. While the perpetrator did not unambiguously self-describe to the incel identity, and misogynist incels were divided on the perpetrator’s incel status, the newspapers saw the attack as the spread of ‘incel culture’. This indicates that the media plays a role in the public imagination of misogynist incels. The article argues that the concept of incel violence risks overshadowing other forms of misogynistic violence in society through how the misogynist incel is imagined in public discourse which, consequently, impacts our understanding of misogyny. This article contributes to our understanding of how public discourse forms representations of gender-based violence in Britain.
Disciplining the disobedient Black maternal subject: the assimilatory pedagogies of public suffering and punishment
Authors: Mendes Jan
Published: January 2024

Drawing feminist analyses of the affective work of shame, compassion and pain into dialogue with Black political theory's critique of the ‘ordinary’ spectacle of Black suffering and death, this article theoretically examines the disciplining of Black maternal subjects who behave badly in Nordic public space. Considering media coverage of two separate instances from 2019 where Black mothers are either threatened by the risk of death or succumb to death, this article analyses how the racial logics of national assimilation locate these women as deviantly unassimilable subjects who are swiftly made culpable for the conditions of their own suffering.
Coping and self-care: Mediating the association of job stressors with vicarious trauma and vicarious resilience
Authors: Murcia Álvarez Evelia , Lombardero Posada Xoán M , Aguiar Fernández Francisco X , Méndez Fernández Ana B , González Fernández Antonio
Published: January 2024

The indirect exposure to patients’ traumatic experiences may generate contrasting reactions in helping professionals, such as vicarious trauma and vicarious resilience. Theoretical models predict that job stressors facilitate vicarious trauma and reduce vicarious resilience and that personal resources may mediate this relationship. However, there is little empirical research linking some of these variables. This study aims to test: (a) Whether job stressors (family-work conflict, work-family conflict and role conflict) predict personal resources (coping strategies and self-care practices) and reactions to indirect exposure to trauma (vicarious trauma and vicarious resilience); and (b) whether personal resources predict these reactions and mediate their association with job stressors. A convenience sample of 448 social workers from Spain completed an online questionnaire between October 2020 and January 2021.

Findings

Structural equation modelling revealed that job stressors generally hindered problem-focused coping and self-care and enabled emotion-focused coping; only vicarious trauma was directly associated with role conflict. Primarily, personal resources predicted the reactions to indirect exposure to trauma and mediated the influence of job stressors in these reactions.

Applications

In line with previous research, results support the need for personal and organizational interventions to decrease vicarious trauma and promote vicarious resilience.
Procedure for evaluation of LNG CCS with reference vessel using nonlinear dynamic analysis
Authors: Kim Joongyu , Kim Yooil
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a procedure for evaluating the structural safety of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Cargo Containment System (CCS) against sloshing load by comparing the results of linear and nonlinear dynamic structural strength analysis with those of verified reference vessels. This comparative procedure indirectly considers (1) limitation of implementing real physical phenomena in model experiments including the Froude scaling method, density ratio, etc., (2) assumptions in statistical analysis for calculating design loads, and (3) complicated effects not implemented in nonlinear dynamic analysis such as phase transition between liquid and gas, hull deflection, and the detailed geometry of the CCS, among others. The uncertainties in sloshing model experiments and statistical analysis can be addressed by introducing the pressure correction factors, which make the linear design loads of the reference vessel satisfy the CCS’s capacity. Finally, the structural nonlinearity, which was not accounted for in the nonlinear dynamic analysis, can be taken into consideration through a comparison of the usage factors from nonlinear dynamic analysis. To apply the proposed structural assessment procedure, the GTT NO96 series were selected and applied to two failure modes. In the application of this procedure, the Triangular Impulse Response Function (TIRF) method was adopted, to efficiently calculate numerous linear dynamic structural strength analyses required for Dynamic Amplification Factor (DAF). Through this application applying larger sloshing loads to the reinforced NO96 CCS of the target vessel compared to the reference vessel, the feasibility of this procedure was shown.
Changing focus: How status affects reputation-based comparisons in the evaluation of organizations
Authors: Collet Francois , Bruyaka Olga , Makarevich Alex , Baudoin Lucie , Wilden Ralf
Published: January 2024

Status and reputation both play important roles in the evaluation and choice of organizations. Status is used as a heuristic in the first stage of a two-stage process when decision-makers select a subset of status-proximate organizations, and cognitively costlier reputation-based comparisons take place in the second stage within this subset. Existing status research assumes that the relative importance of different dimensions of reputation in the second stage is not contingent on the status of the organization that is being evaluated. We argue that this assumption is not warranted. Evidence suggests that high status is associated with a focus on gains and opportunities while low status is associated with a focus on downside risks. Similarly, some dimensions of reputation are associated more with upside opportunities while other dimensions of reputation are associated more with downside risks. Consequently, we argue that the emphasis on reputation dimensions associated with upside opportunities relative to dimensions of reputation associated with downside risks is contingent on status, which provides the evaluation frame. We test our hypothesis and provide empirical evidence consistent with our predictions using a sample of 411,530 US applicants to Master of Business Administration programs.
Who Runs in the End? New Evidence on the Effects of Gender, Ethnicity and Intersectionality on Candidate Selection
Authors: Debus Marc , Himmelrath Noam
Published: January 2024

Candidate selection within parties is a key stage in the political process and provides an important frame for the degree of representation of social groups in parliaments. We seek to develop a better understanding of the effect of intersectionality on candidate selection processes. We do so by examining the effect of candidates’ key socio-demographic characteristics, like their gender and ethnic background, on their chances of getting nominated by their party. We argue that features of the ideological background of the respective nominating party matter for the chances that women and aspirants with an ethnic background win the nomination as their party’s district candidate. We make use of novel data from the 2021 German federal election that provides detailed information on the candidate selection processes of all major parties in the 299 election districts. By doing so, we apply existing theoretical expectations to an untested case and find that female competitors and aspirants with an ethnic background face difficulties being nominated, in particular in the case of parties with rather traditionalist societal policy positions. We also find that intersectionality matters: female aspirants of ethnic minorities are even less likely to be nominated by ideologically traditional parties.
Sperm Selection Using Zona Pellucida–Binding Enhanced Embryo Morphokinetic and Clinical Outcomes in ICSI: A Sibling Oocytes Study
Authors: Izadi Mahin , Khalili Mohammad Ali , Rezvani Mohammad Ebrahim , Anbari Fatemeh , Maleki Behnam , Woodward Bryan , Aflatoonian Behrouz
Published: January 2024

The objective was to investigate the embryo morphokinitics using a time-lapse monitoring (TLM) system and assessment of clinical outcomes following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with zona pellucida (ZP)-bound sperm selection and conventional methods. A total of 371 metaphase II (MII) oocytes from 50 ICSI cycles were studied. Sibling oocytes were randomly divided into control ( n = 199) and ZP-bound group ( n = 172). All resulting zygotes were cultured and monitored in the TLM system up to Day 3 after ICSI. Fertilization rate, early embryo development, and clinical outcomes were evaluated. No significant differences were found in fertilization rate, time-lapse qualitative and quantitative measures, pronuclear fading time (PNF) t2, t3, t4, t5, t6, and t7 (times of cleavage to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 cells), respectively. However, the t8 (time of cleavage to eight cells) and cc3 (duration of third cell cycle) revealed a significant difference between control and ZP-bound groups ( p < .05). A significant difference between the two groups ( p < .05) in the rates of Grade A embryos (according to Basile algorithm), chemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and implantation was observed. Sperm selection using biological materials, such as ZP, improved both embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes, despite not affecting the early embryo development and morphokinetic parameters up to t8. This prospective randomized sibling oocyte trial was registered in October 2020 to January 2022 (IRCT20200705048021N1).
Comparing the Strength of Associations Between Male Genital Problems and Mental Illnesses and Sleep Disorders
Authors: Merrill Ray M. , Song Dajeong , Ashton McKay K.
Published: January 2024

This study compares the rate of selected types of mental illnesses (stress, anxiety, depression) and sleep disorders (insomnia, sleep apnea) according to the status of eight male genital problems. Analyses utilize medical claims data for male employees aged 18 to 64 years of a large corporation, 2017 to 2021. Approximately 1,076 (7.3%) men per year have one or more genital problems. The most common being benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH; 3.8%) and then erectile dysfunction (ED; 1.7%). For BPH patients, the rate experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or a combination of these is 0.96%, 6.2%, 5.3%, and 5.1%, respectively. Corresponding rates for ED are 1.5%, 7.2%, 5.9%, and 7.5%. For BPH patients, the rate experiencing insomnia, sleep apnea, or both is 3.1%, 22.7%, and 2.0%, respectively. Corresponding rates for ED are 1.2%, 20.6%, and 2.2%. Male genital problems positively associate with having one or more mental illnesses (stress, anxiety, depression), except for hydrocele, with ED and penis disorder having the strongest associations. Male genital problems also positively associate with having insomnia and/or sleep apnea, except for infertility and orchitis, with BPH and ED having the strongest associations. The positive associations involving BPH and ED with mental illnesses are each more pronounced in the younger age group (18–49 vs. 50–64). Similar results are seen in the models involving sleep disorders. Thus, comorbid male genital problems, mental illnesses, and sleep disorders exist, with the strength of associations unique to the male genital problem and sometimes modified by age.
Mechanical and tribological properties of silicon carbide /carbon fiber/epoxy resin based composites
Authors: Hu Haixia , Zhang Sinian
Published: January 2024

In this contribution, an epoxy resin based composites which synergistically modified by carbon fiber (MCF) and silicon carbide (SiC) particles were prepared. The chemical structure of MCF and SiC before and after surface treated using silane coupling agent were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. The mechanical properties including tensile, flexural, and compression of the composites were investigated. Moreover, the friction and wear performances were studied on a ball-on-ring wear tester. The results indicated that the best tensile, compressive, and friction and wear properties of composites were obtained when SiC particles content is 3.0  wt.%. Compared to the pure epoxy resin, when the SiC particles content is 4.0  wt.%, the best flexural strength and modulus were obtained, which increased by 8.7% and 52.97%, respectively. Both the average coefficient of friction (COF) and the wear mass losses of the composites decreased significantly with the addition of the modified SiC particles. In addition, the main wear mechanism of pure EP is adhesive and fatigue wear, while the SiC/MCF/EP composites exhibit abrasive and fatigue wear.
Studies on sugarcane bagasse/jute fibers reinforced bio-composites for functional thermal insulation materials
Authors: S Ariharasudhan , S Sundaresan , Selvaraj Senthil Kumar , Ramratan  , Worku Amare , Santhanam Sakthivel
Published: January 2024

The efficient use of fibers derived from natural sources is the main goal of this research project. However, the priority on natural fibers falls short of meeting the necessary strength requirements. The goal of this work is to empirically analyze composite materials made with sugarcane bagasse and jute natural fibers as reinforcement, and PVA as the matrix. The goal is to examine the various mechanical and thermal insulating properties of Bagasse fiber/jute fiber composites to determine their application in technical domains. To carry out this investigation, a series of five hybrid composites were developed, each containing 65% polyvinyl acetate and varying the blend proportion of bagasse fiber and jute fiber: 100% /0%, 70%/30%, 50%/50%, 30%/70%, and 0%/100%. Compression molding was used as the fabrication technique. These composites’ resulting mechanical characteristics followed a critical analysis by ASTM standards. Through SEM analysis, the fiber shape, internal fracture forms, and binding properties were investigated. The results of the study showed that the tensile strength of composites made of bagasse and jute fibers is 265.80 MPa, which is close to the strength (270.10 MPa) displayed by composites made of synthetic fibers. Significantly, compared to the other configurations, the composites made up of 70% jute and 30% bagasse fibers exhibit a higher thermal insulation coefficient. Furthermore, compared to the other samples, these 70/30 composites had better impact resistance and flexural strength.
Hydrolyzed Reactive Red 195 adsorption on cellulose: Experimental and theoretical investigations
Authors: Zhang Chaoyu , Zhao Xu , Hu Zhubing , Liu Jianli , Zheng Siting , Tang Wei , Wang Zilin , Lu Shanzhou , Zhu Bo , Fu Yizheng
Published: January 2024

In this investigation, the mechanism of dye transfer during the mixed washing of natural cellulosic fabrics was elucidated through a comprehensive study of the hydrolysis of Reactive Red 195 (RR 195) and the subsequent adsorption of its hydrolysis products onto cellulose, approached both experimentally and theoretically. Initially, Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) was employed to identify the final products of Reactive Red 195 hydrolysis, collectively referred to as the unfixed dye substance ( UDS). This data provided theoretical insight into the hydrolysis mechanism of the dye. Following this identification, an adsorption kinetic model was established to delineate the interaction of the hydrolysis products with cellulose. Adsorption exhibited its maximal rate at a temperature of 60°C, under conditions of a wash bath ratio of 120:1 and a pH value of 7. Furthering the investigation, a molecular dynamics model was constructed to detail the adsorption process of these hydrolysis products on the hydrophobic surface Iβ(1 0 0) of cellulose within an aqueous environment. This model offered precise insights into the adsorption volume, kinetics, and mechanistic interaction at a molecular scale. Conclusive evidence from both theoretical analyses and experimental results suggested that the hydrolysis products, devoid of reactive groups, were incapable of chemically interacting with the hydroxyl groups inherent to cellulose. Instead, it was discerned that these products underwent a physical adsorption process onto the cellulose surface. Such adsorptive behavior is postulated to be a predominant factor influencing the dye transfer phenomenon in mixed washing conditions.
Physical and mental safety monitoring and protection of children with autism spectrum disorder: Intelligent clothing integrating early warning and rescue
Authors: Wu Xinzhou , Chen Jiayi , Cheng Zhe , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Yifan , Liu Wenzhuo , Jiang Xuewei
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, the safety of special children has gradually become a hot spot of social concern. In this paper, aiming at the problems of autism spectrum disorder children who are easy to get lost and drown, intelligent monitoring clothing with lost warning and drowning rescue functions is designed. Firstly a clothing technology system based on multi-MCU and BeiDou dual-mode positioning was set up. Then according to their characteristics of physiology and psychology, CLO was used for virtual simulation design of color, pattern, and style of sample clothes. Finally, the product prototype of intelligent monitoring clothing was evaluated from various aspects. The results confirm that the clothing can meet the physical and psychological needs of these children. Its intelligent sensor positioning, data acquisition and transmission, and waterproof and rescue functions are designed accurately, which can not only play an early warning and protection role when children go beyond the fence and drown, but also reduce the monitoring burden of parents to a certain extent. This study also provides a reference for the design of intelligent monitoring clothing for special children.
Qualitative Thematic Analysis of Transcripts in Social Change Research: Reflections on Common Misconceptions and Recommendations for Reporting Results
Authors: Kogen Lauren
Published: January 2024

This paper, on qualitative thematic analysis (QTA) in social change research, falls somewhere between a reflective piece and a how-to guide. Using two examples from my own previous research, I discuss why QTA in the field of social change or social justice, which often analyzes the words of vulnerable, marginalized, or underserved populations, is so fraught, so contested, and so often dismissed. Qualitative thematic analysis of interviews or focus groups is a common research tool used in the field, but the guidelines, scope, and practices of this tool are varied and ill-defined. I have witnessed in my students’ papers and in peer reviewing for journals that there are a handful of assumptions and misconceptions that appear repeatedly, for example around intercoder reliability and frequency counting, that reduce the quality of analysis. This paper focuses on how to conduct QTAs that address social change: complex social problems faced by underserved populations, such as those dealing with poverty and inequality. By discussing the methods used in two of my own social change research projects, this paper offers a balanced method for both promoting rigor and understanding the limits and strengths of this method.
Toward Culturally Responsive Qualitative Research Methods in the Design of Health Technologies: Learnings in Applying an Indigenous Māori-Centred Approach
Authors: Boardsworth Kate , Barlow Rhiannon , Wilson Bobbie-Jo , Wilson Uluinayau Tammi , Signal Nada
Published: January 2024

There is a growing call for health researchers to address the inequities in healthcare experienced by indigenous populations by focusing on the development of culturally responsive research approaches. This article presents a contextual example from Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) of how indigenous (Māori) knowledge and practices helped reimagine and enhance an existing qualitative descriptive research protocol exploring clinicians’ perspectives of robotic rehabilitation for people with stroke. The intent was to develop a research design that upheld and valued mātauranga Māori (indigenous knowledge systems) alongside Western clinical sciences knowledge. To achieve this, a collaboration of non-indigenous (tauiwi) and indigenous researchers with experience in Qualitative and Kaupapa Māori (indigenous) methodologies, and clinical practice was formed. The researchers undertook a cyclical process of relationship building, engagement with mātauranga Māori, discussion and exploration of how indigenous knowledge and practices could inform and shape the existing study design. Key influences in adapting the research design were drawn from Māori ethical principles, Māori frameworks of health and wellbeing, and Māori cultural practices for clinical engagement. Drawing on indigenous knowledge and practices to develop a Māori-centred research method resulted in significant changes to the study design, methods, and interview approach. Focused development of a culturally responsive approach enabled the researchers to engage indigenous participants in a research process that was safe, respectful, and culturally appropriate. Transformation occurred within the researcher-participant relationship from one often characterised as transactional, to one of deeper connection and reciprocity, which facilitated a richer and more in-depth inquiry. The explicit valuing and integration of indigenous knowledge and practices in adapting the research method strengthened the cultural responsivity of the research. Central to the process was prioritising working in relational partnership. Non-indigenous researchers’ self-reflection on their own culture, alongside being attuned to the influence of historical, political, and social contexts of the participants experiences proved essential.
The Promises of Inclusive Research Methodologies: Relational Design and Praxis
Authors: Verhage Miriam , Lindenberg Jolanda , Bussemaker Mariëtte , Abma Tineke A.
Published: January 2024

This article explores the potential and challenges of inclusive research methodologies when working with older individuals with lower literacy levels. We present inclusive approaches developed during our research and discuss their implications for methodology and individual well-being among older adults with lower literacy levels. Our key insight is that the promise of inclusive research lies in relational design and praxis. Prioritizing meaningful relationships between researchers and participants, we emphasize the importance of considering participants as active contributors rather than mere informants. Creating a safe and supportive environment fosters trust, empowerment, and meaningful contributions from participants. Flexibility and adaptability in research approaches, including phased informed consent and the minimizing of written language, enhance participants’ self-confidence and trust in their own voices. This approach empowers participants in co-creating knowledge, which strengthens the trustworthiness and validity of research results. Inclusive research, while promising, requires researchers to navigate ethical dilemmas, invest time in building rapport, and adapt to participants’ needs. It challenges traditional research norms, emphasizing ethical engagement, meaningful participation, and tangible outcomes that benefit both researchers and participants. Employing inclusive research strategies, despite their departure from traditional praxis, ensures that the voices of older individuals with lower literacy levels are respected. This shift enhances the validity of knowledge, promotes co-creation, and fosters feelings of inclusiveness and empowerment. These promises underscore the importance of embracing inclusive research methodologies in contemporary research practices.
Controlling the flow loss of a supersonic compressor rotor using the blade slotting method
Authors: Ye Xinlong , Zhou Zhenggui
Published: January 2024

The flow loss in the blade passage of a supersonic compressor rotor mainly comes from the boundary layers on the blade surface and end wall, the shock wave, the shock wave/boundary layer interaction, and tip leakage flow; the instability is mainly caused by the shock wave near the rotor blade tip exiting the blade passage. This paper adopts an internal slot in the blade, with the inlet of the slot located at the leading edge of the blade and the outlet located on the suction surface of the blade, by using the momentum of the incoming flow to form a high-velocity jet to control the flow loss and improve the stall margin of the supersonic rotor. The mechanism of reducing flow loss by a slotting jet was studied, and a genetic algorithm optimization platform was further used for the coupled optimization design of the slot and blade. The numerical calculation results showed that the slotting jet can effectively suppress the development of the boundary layer on the suction surface while reducing the intensity of the shock wave, thereby reducing the loss of the boundary layer and shock wave, significantly improving the peak efficiency of the rotor, and increasing the mass flow rate at the peak efficiency point. The slotting jet can cause the shock wave in the passage to move downstream, thereby improving the stall margin of the rotor. Due to the strong shock wave in the blade passage near the blade tip, the slot outlet should be near and upstream of the shock wave; the shock wave in the middle and root regions of the blade is weaker, and the slot outlet should be located downstream of the shock wave.
Uncertainty analysis of motion accuracy on single-axis feed drive systems
Authors: Quan Li , Zhao Wanhua
Published: January 2024

The use of mechatronic integrated equipment, such as servo feed drive systems, has become increasingly important in high-end manufacturing, aerospace, and semiconductor industries. However, while advancements in modeling and analysis have improved deterministic feed systems, there is a lack of research into uncertain motion accuracy due to random factors in actual working conditions. This paper aims to address this issue by analyzing the uncertainty of motion accuracy in single-axis feed drive systems. Random factors already impact both positioning accuracy and repeatability, while dynamic errors are reflected in the mean and variance of following errors. The study also considers the impact of disturbance uncertainty, parameter uncertainty, and model uncertainty on motion accuracy. To investigate the impact of these sources of uncertainty on a six-degree-of-freedom linear motor feed system, a simulation example using the Monte Carlo simulation algorithm was utilized. The analysis revealed that uncertainty indeed has an impact on motion accuracy. This research will help identify and improve random errors in servo feed systems, ultimately leading to the development of strategies for reducing motion accuracy uncertainty and enhancing the accuracy and reliability of feed systems in high-end manufacturing, aerospace, and semiconductor industries.
Peristaltic flow of Williamson nanofluid on a rough surface
Authors: Tanveer Anum , Rasheed Ifza , Jarral Sharak
Published: January 2024

The aim of this current research is to investigate the peristaltic flow of Williamson nanofluid across a rough surface in a non-uniform channel under the influence of inclined magnetic field. The Joule heating and viscous dissipation effects are also retained in the current scrutiny. The objective of studying peristaltic flow of Williamson nanofluid on a rough surface is to gain insights into the complex fluid dynamics and heat transfer phenomena occurring in such systems. This knowledge can be used to design more efficient and effective nanofluid-based devices and processes. In the context of mathematical modeling, the appropriate dimensional nonlinear equations for momentum, heat and mass transport are simplified into dimensionless equation by applying the essential estimation of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. The equations subjected to boundary conditions have solved numerically by the Mathematica software built-in numerical Solver ND_solve method. Various essential physical characteristics on velocity, temperature and concentration are presented graphically in the end. It can be seen that fluid velocity decreases at the central part of the channel for the escalting values Hartman number M. As Darcy number Da increases then velocity profile increases at the core part of the channel and the walls of the channel experiencing an opposite behavior. It is noticed that Higher value of Eckert number Ec enhances the temperature profile. When Weissenberg number We gets stronger then temperature profile decreases. It is observed that the temperature and concentration profiles show an opposite behavior for the rising values of thermophoresis parameter [Formula: see text].
Comparative analysis of oldroyd-b and casson nanofluids flowing through chemically reactive radiative porous medium
Authors: Shehzad Sabir Ali , Farid Rabia
Published: January 2024

The comparative analysis of non-Newtonian nanofluids with Newtonian conditions are addressed in this research. Oldroyd-B and Casson fluids are adopted as the non-Newtonian fluids (NNF). The generation of flow is due to bidirectionally movement of magnetized surface. Radiation and chemical reactive processes are accounted in energy and mass transportation equations. Buongiorno’s theory of nanoparticles is developed for the nanofluids analysis. The basic formulas of fluid dynamics are incorporated to formulate the physical model. The assumption of boundary-layer is utilized for the simplification of mathematical model. The arising nonlinear model of three independent variables are converted into one independent variable model using similarity constraints. The simplified mathematical model is treated analytically through the implementation of homotopic approach. The convergence of this scheme is verified through numerical benchmark and graphic illustration. The results of versatile constraints on physical quantities are addressed numerically and graphically. The comparison of results with previous published outcomes is provided in limiting approach.
Design and transmission performance analysis of planthopper hip joint gear
Authors: Fu Shengping , He Zenghuang , Ye Weixiong , Li Xudong , Wang Rui , Sheng Bin
Published: January 2024

To enhance the efficiency and load-carrying capacity of the jumping robot’s transmission system, the transmission characteristics of the planthopper hip gear were analyzed. The analysis revealed that the gear pair exhibited low transmission errors, high transmission efficiency, and significant torque capacity, making it suitable for high-speed, high-precision, and high-power density transmissions. A bionic design study of the jumping robot’s gear was conducted, drawing inspiration from the planthopper hip gear’s tooth shape and profile. A logarithmic spiral was assumed as the tooth profile based on its consistent pitch angle and curvature gradient characteristics. Parameters of the tooth profile of the bionic gear were calculated, and equations for the tooth surface were derived. A three-dimensional model of the bionic gear was constructed, and both its transmission efficiency and error were calculated. Using the finite element method, theoretical formulas for contact stress and bending stress in the bionic gear were deduced. The distribution characteristics of both bending and contact stress were analyzed, demonstrating that the bionic gear used in high-performance jumping robots possesses low transmission error, high transmission efficiency, and excellent contact strength, providing a theoretical foundation for enhancing their jumping capabilities.
Microscopic moisture localisation in unsaturated materials using nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry
Authors: Deckers Daan , Janssen Hans
Published: January 2024

Due to the detrimental effects of moisture in the built environment, there is a continuous interest in non-destructive experimental techniques that quantify and/or localise moisture in materials. Most existing experimental techniques, however, typically focus on macroscopic moisture contents in samples rather than the microscopic distribution of water in the individual pores of building materials. For the latter, a popular method such as X-ray computed tomography is not readily applicable, due to the gap between its spatial resolution limit and the typical pore sizes of building materials. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry is capable of measuring water in pores of both the nanometer and micrometer scale and is therefore an interesting possibility. While most NMR research focusses on water-saturated materials or overall moisture contents, this study determines the size distributions of the water islands in unsaturated materials with NMR, and compares results to X-ray computed tomography (XCT) images and pore network model (PNM) simulations. Results on unsaturated materials show that NMR focusses on the biggest water islands (i.e. in capillary filled pores) and disregards the hydrogen nuclei in smaller water islands (i.e. stored in pore corners). NMR relaxometry is therefore only adept at providing very rough estimates of the size of water-filled pores, especially since post-processing of the NMR experiments to obtain these water island size distributions involves a lot of uncertainty.
Periconceptional folic acid usage and its associated factors in eastern Sudan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hassan Ahmed Ali , Hassan Albagir M , Bashir Amal O , Adam Gamal K , AlHabardi Nadiah , Adam Ishag
Published: January 2024

Background:

Several countries poorly adhere to the World Health Organization’s recommendation of folic acid supplementation in the periconceptional period, especially in limited-resource settings.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of and the factors associated with folic acid usage in the periconceptional period among pregnant women at Gadarif Maternity Hospital in eastern Sudan.

Study design:

This is a cross-sectional study.

Methods:

This study was conducted in eastern Sudan from April to September 2022. A total of 720 pregnant women in their first trimester were enrolled. The sociodemographic characteristics and clinical and obstetrical data of pregnant women in their first trimester were assessed using a face-to-face questionnaire. In addition, multivariate regression analysis was performed.

Results:

In this study, the median (interquartile range) of the age and gravidity of the enrolled women was 26.3 (24.14–29.52) years and 2 (1–4), respectively. Of these 720 women, 423 (58.8%) used folic acid during the periconceptional period, while 27 (3.7%) women used folic acid in the preconceptional period. None of the investigated factors (age, residence, education, employment, body mass index, or gravidity) were associated with periconceptional use of folic acid.

Conclusion:

The study revealed a low prevalence of folic acid usage in preconceptional period among pregnant women in eastern Sudan. Additional efforts are needed to promote folic acid usage in the preconceptional period as well as in the first trimester.
Health literacy among pregnant women in the United Arab Emirates: The Mutaba’ah study
Authors: Elbarazi Iffat , Alam Zufishan , Ali Nasloon , Loney Tom , Al-Rifai Rami H , Al-Maskari Fatma , Ahmed Luai A
Published: January 2024

Background:

Health literacy is the degree to which individuals can obtain, process, understand, and communicate health-related information. Health literacy among pregnant women, in particular, may have a significant impact on maternal and child health. In the United Arab Emirates, no previous studies have been carried out to investigate the health literacy levels of pregnant women.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate antenatal health literacy levels and identify associated factors among pregnant Emirati women in the United Arab Emirates.

Design:

This analysis was based on the baseline cross-sectional data for pregnant women participating in the prospective cohort Mutaba’ah Study, recruited between May 2017 and August 2022.

Methods:

Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire during their antenatal visits that collected sociodemographic and pregnancy-related information. Adequacy of health literacy was assessed using the BRIEF health literacy screening tool with adequate health literacy defined as a score ⩾ 17. Regression modeling investigated the association between the pregnant women characteristics with having adequate health literacy level (ability to read and comprehend most patient education materials).

Results:

A total of 2694 responses to the BRIEF health literacy screening tool were analyzed. Approximately, three-quarters (71.6%) of respondents showed adequate health literacy, followed by marginal (22.8%), and limited (5.6%) health literacy levels, respectively. Higher education levels (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.74, 95% confidence interval = 1.46–2.08), employment (adjusted odds ratio = 1.35, 95% confidence interval = 1.10–1.65), and adequate social support (adjusted odds ratio = 1.69, 95% confidence interval = 1.26–2.28) were associated with adequate health literacy levels. Participants who expressed worry about birth were less likely to have adequate literacy levels (adjusted odds ratio = 0.70, 95% confidence interval = 0.58–0.85).

Conclusion:

Nearly three-quarters of pregnant women have adequate health literacy. Nevertheless, measures including policies to sustain and enhance health literacy levels among all expectant mothers are required, with a specific focus on those having limited health literacy.
Prevalence of infertility and pregnancy loss among individuals with kidney disease in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Reynolds Monica L , Loehr Laura R , Hogan Susan L , Hu Yichun , Isasi Carmen R , Cordero Christina , Ricardo Ana C , Lash James P , Derebail Vimal K
Published: January 2024

Background:

Hispanic/Latino individuals are less likely to receive optimal treatment for chronic kidney disease than non-Hispanic whites. This may be particularly detrimental for women of reproductive age as chronic kidney disease increases risk for infertility, menstrual irregularities, and pregnancy loss. While these maternal outcomes have been associated with advanced chronic kidney disease, their occurrence in early chronic kidney disease is unclear.

Objectives/Design:

Using baseline (2008–2011) and second study visit (2014–2017) data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, we retrospectively assessed the prevalence of chronic kidney disease as well as the association between chronic kidney disease and self-reported infertility, cessation of menses, hysterectomy, and nonviable pregnancy loss (experienced at less than 24 weeks gestation) in women of reproductive age (18–45 years).

Methods:

Multivariable survey logistic regression analyses determined the unadjusted and multivariable-adjusted prevalence odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals between chronic kidney disease and the separate outcomes.

Results:

Among 2589 Hispanic/Latino women included (mean age = 31.4 years), 4.6% were considered to have chronic kidney disease. In adjusted analyses, women with chronic kidney disease did not have a significantly increased odds of infertility (odds ratio = 1.02, 95% confidence interval = 0.42–2.49), cessation of menses (odds ratio = 1.25, 95% confidence interval = 0.52–3.04), or hysterectomy (odds ratio = 1.17, 95% confidence interval = 0.61–2.25) compared to those without chronic kidney disease. In those with chronic kidney disease, the adjusted odds of a nonviable pregnancy loss occurring after baseline visit were increased (odds ratio = 2.11, 95% confidence interval = 0.63–7.02) but not statistically significance.

Conclusion:

The presence of early stage chronic kidney disease did not confer a significant risk of infertility, cessation of menses, or nonviable pregnancy loss.
Women’s attitudes, prevalence, related factors, and perceived barriers of birth companionship in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mousa Ola , Salameh Basma , Alqahtani Mohammed , David Maryshela , Almefarfesh Aishah A , Duhilan Duaa Al , Ghaly Asmaa Saber , Alsadaan Nourah , Reshia Fadia Ahmed Abdelkader , Alsandal Zainab Mohammad Ahmad
Published: January 2024

Background:

The World Health Organization recommends companionship as a critical element of respectful maternity care. However, there is paucity of literature regarding women’s attitudes, related factors, and barriers of implementation in Saudi Arabia.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess women’s attitudes toward birth companionship during labor and delivery, related factors, and barriers of implementing labor companionship in Saudi Arabia.

Design/Methods:

This study was carried out in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, using a cross-sectional design. The data collection took place over a period of approximately 6 months, specifically from 16 August 2021 to 20 February 2022. A total of 418 women who had given birth at three governmental hospitals and three private hospitals in Al Ahsa participated in the survey. The study included women between the ages of 18 and 49 years who had delivered during the study period.

Results:

The study revealed that while around 82.8% of mothers expressed a desire for companionship during labor, only 43.2% actually had a labor companion present during delivery. The primary obstacle to labor companionship reported by 21.5% of respondents was hospital policies. Other barriers identified included husbands’ fear of being present during labor (4.7%) and limited availability of time for companionship (3.8%).

Conclusion:

The study concludes that birth companionship is highly desired by women in the study area. However, various physical, emotional, and institutional barriers, such as hospital policies and regulations, impede its implementation. Addressing these barriers and promoting supportive policies are essential to facilitate the provision of birth companionship and improve the childbirth experience for women in Al Ahsa.
Empowered management for pelvic pain: The experiences of women with persistent pelvic pain participating in an online self-directed self-management program while they wait for interprofessional care
Authors: Burke Emeralda , Di Renna Tania , Mustafa Nida , Ginter Carleen , Carter Wendy , Corkery Celeste , Sheffe Sarah , Wilson Rosemary , Lemos Nucelio , Bosma Rachael
Published: January 2024

Background:

Persistent pelvic pain is pain sensed in or around the pelvis and is often associated with negative cognitive, behavioral, sexual, and emotional consequences. The lack of interprofessional persistent pelvic pain management programs that address the complex interplay of biopsychosocial factors result in lengthy wait times and negative health outcomes. Limited access to evidence informed self-management educational resources contributes to poor coping strategies. Evidence shows that self-management education and strategies support patients while they wait for care. However, very few studies explore the patient’s lived experience of participating in an online educational program designed for persistent pelvic pain.

Objectives:

This study aims to understand the experience of women with persistent pelvic pain participating in an online, self-management education program (“Pelvic Pain Empowered Management” program) while awaiting care at an interprofessional pelvic pain clinic.

Design:

A descriptive qualitative approach was used to explore the experiences of women participating in an online educational program designed for cis women with persistent pelvic pain.

Methods:

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 women, transcribed the data verbatim using NVivo software (NVivo 12, QSR International Pty Ltd.), and analyzed inductively using previously established methods.

Results:

We identified four main themes relevant to women’s experiences of the program: (1) the program shaped expectations around upcoming pelvic pain appointments, (2) the program content is relevant and resonates with people with lived experience of persistent pelvic pain, (3) the program enhanced understanding of persistent pelvic pain, and (4) the program empowered people with skills and strategies to better manage their persistent pelvic pain.

Conclusion:

Our findings highlight how self-directed online patient education can be leveraged while persistent pelvic pain patients wait for care to support them in setting expectations around care and in engaging in pain self-management.