bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Lumbar Shape Deformation With Fabric Strain Sensors
Authors: Vu Linh Q. , Kim Han , Schulze Lawrence J. H. , Rajulu Sudhakar L.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To better study human motion inside the space suit and suit-related contact, a multifactor statistical model was developed to predict torso body shape changes and lumbar motion during suited movement by using fabric strain sensors that are placed on the body.

Background

Physical interactions within pressurized space suits can pose an injury risk for astronauts during extravehicular activity (EVA). In particular, poor suit fit can result in an injury due to reduced performance capabilities and excessive body contact within the suit during movement. A wearable solution is needed to measure body motion inside the space suit.

Methods

An array of flexible strain sensors was attached to the body of 12 male study participants. The participants performed specific static lumbar postures while 3D body scans and sensor measurements were collected. A model was created to predict the body shape as a function of sensor signal and the accuracy was evaluated using holdout cross-validation.

Results

Predictions from the torso shape model had an average root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.02 cm. Subtle soft tissue deformations such as skin folding and bulges were accurately replicated in the shape prediction. Differences in posture type did not affect the prediction error.

Conclusion

This method provides a useful tool for suited testing and the information gained will drive the development of injury countermeasures and improve suit fit assessments.

Application

In addition to space suit design applications, this technique can provide a lightweight and wearable system to perform ergonomic evaluations in field assessments.
Does Economic Growth Pay Political Dividends in India?
Authors: Bang Vasant V. , Mishra Alok Kumar
Published: October 2020

Since independence in 1947, India has witnessed several changes in economic policies of governments. Economic reforms were started in India in 1984 and were accelerated later in 1991. It is believed that Bharatiya Janata Party won the 2014 parliamentary elections on the promise of economic development and growth. In this article, an attempt has been made to investigate the link between economic and electoral performances in Indian elections. The data for 1951–2014 period has been analysed by establishing regression equations using vote percentage received by a ruling party as dependent variable and sectoral economic growth during the ruling tenure as independent variables. Comparisons have been made between the pre- and post-1984 eras. An important contribution of this article is that it highlights the fact that electoral performances can be better explained using sectoral growth data as compared to overall GDP growth rates. The article also highlights a significant role played by volatility in growth rates.
Examining the “Referendum Theory” in Taiwan’s Local Elections
Authors: Yu Eric Chen-hua , Lim Kah-yew
Published: October 2020

This paper analyzes the extent to which the performances of local and national governments can shape local election outcomes. Specifically, we use various waves of survey data from Taiwan’s Elections and Democratization Studies (TEDS) to explore whether a person’s assessments of local and central government performances affect his/her vote for the incumbent party candidate. Our empirical findings partially verify the so-called “referendum theory” and can be summarized as follows: First, voters who hold a positive assessment of the performance of local government are more likely to vote for an incumbent who seeks reelection, but this is not necessarily the case for an incumbent party candidate in an open-seat contest. Second, Taiwan’s local elections cannot be regarded as referenda on the central government because the central government approval rating does not consistently affect vote choices across different types/levels of local elections.
The Dual-route Account of Writing-to-Dictation in Chinese: A Short Report
Authors: Lau Dustin Kai-Yan
Published: October 2020

This is a short report of an experiment conducted to investigate the effects of phonology-to-orthography (P-O) consistency, lexical frequency, imageability, and the number of strokes on writing-to-dictation in Chinese. Thirty-two undergraduates were tested using a writing-to-dictation task consisting of 60 Chinese characters without homophones (i.e., P-O consistent) and 60 Chinese characters with at least two homophones (i.e., P-O inconsistent), the responses of which were recorded on an Android tablet. Linear mixed-effect modelling was used to investigate the significance of the different effects on three measures—accuracy, response time (RT), and total writing time. The results indicated that imageability was significant in predicting accuracy and RT; P-O consistency was significant in predicting RT and total writing time; the number of strokes was significant in predicting accuracy and total writing time; and the lexical frequency effect was significant in predicting all three measures. In general, the results supported the dual-route account of writing-to-dictation in Chinese and confirmed that both the lexical-semantic and lexical non-semantic pathways are needed to explain writing-to-dictation in Chinese. The significance of the different effects observed in the three measures also indicated the need to include different measures when studying writing-to-dictation to better understand the time course of the writing process.
Evaluation of Slovenian Occupational Therapists’ Theoretical Knowledge and Stress Levels Connected With Providing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Slabe Damjan , Oven Alenka
Published: October 2020

This was the first study that evaluated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) knowledge in a sample of occupational therapists and investigated whether the knowledge of CPR parameters affected their perceived stress levels related to providing CPR. A questionnaire, consisting of 4 clusters of questions, was pretested and used in an online survey of Slovenian occupational therapists. The survey was sent to all electronic addresses obtained from the Association of Occupational Therapists of Slovenia and the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ljubljana. It was completed by 201 occupational therapists, which represented about 40% of all Slovenian occupational therapists. Data were analyzed using independent-samples t-test, 1-way ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. On average, the participants scored 5.44 points (SD = 2.96) on the CPR knowledge test that had a maximum of 9 points. A weak negative correlation existed between the perceived level of stress and scores on the knowledge test ( r = −0.151; P = .05). Scores on the knowledge test were also negatively correlated with age ( r = −0.409; P < .001) and work experience ( r = −0.388; P < .001) and positively correlated with self-evaluation of knowledge of CPR ( r = 0.366; P < .001). The majority of the participants (92.3%) felt that they needed to update their CPR knowledge. There was no statistically significant difference in the CPR knowledge between occupational therapists working in different clinical areas ( P = .85). Our sample of occupational therapists was not optimally prepared to apply CPR. Older and more experienced therapists demonstrated less theoretical knowledge and were particularly vulnerable to stress. To improve knowledge and confidence, regular CPR training is recommended for this group of health professionals.
Making the Case for Centralized Dementia Care Through Adaptive Reuse in the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Roberts Emily , Carter Heather Carlile
Published: October 2020

It is estimated that 5.4 million Americans have some form of dementia and these numbers are expected to rise in the coming decades, leading to an unprecedented demand for memory care housing and services. At the same time, infectious disease outbreaks like the COVID-19 pandemic have raised great concerns for the future of care settings for people living with dementia. In searching for innovative options to create more autonomy and better quality of life in dementia care settings, while at the same time improving infectious disease control, repurposing existing structures, in particular vacant urban malls, may be one option for the large sites needed for the European model of dementia villages. This editorial paper makes the case for the Dementia Friendly City Center model for centralized dementia programs, medical services and housing. By working across multiple disciplines, this research team has simultaneously addressed numerous issues, including community revitalization, building sustainability, and the strengthening of infectious disease control in care sites which are inclusive, progressive and convergent with the needs of an aging population.
Let it float: Inflation and states’ priority on monetary independence over exchange rate stability
Authors: Park Yeon Kyung Grace
Published: October 2020

Monetary policy autonomy and exchange rate stability are desirable macroeconomic policies that cannot be attained jointly under internationally mobile capital. In this article, I explore what happens to state choices between the two policies when a key domestic economic challenge rises. Among many factors, increasing inflation directly affects citizens’ daily lives through rising living costs and decreasing purchasing power. Because dissatisfied citizens become more likely to threaten leaders’ tenure in both democracies and nondemocracies, I argue that leaders will pay closer attention to domestically oriented citizens’ interest rather than that of internationally/export-oriented actors when the inflation rate increases. In other words, to effectively tackle inflation and appease citizens’ discontent, leaders will prioritize their ability to utilize monetary policy over stable exchange rates that promote international trade and investment. As a result, states become more likely to relax exchange rates as the inflation rate increases. Interestingly, empirical results indicate stronger support for hypotheses regarding nondemocratic states.
Neo-trasformismo: Historical legacies and populist revolt
Authors: Riley Dylan
Published: October 2020

There have been three main types of political outcome from the Great Recession. The first is an insurgency from the left exemplified by Podemos, now in decline, in Spain. It demands a return to classic European social democracy, but presents itself in a more radical rhetorical garb than its mid twentieth century forbears. The second is an insurgency from the right, best exemplified by Hungary’s Victor Orbán and his Fidesz Party. It demands a return to a national capitalism reminiscent of the 1930s. The third is the uniquely Italian phenomenon of the Five Star Movement-Lega combination combined with the rise of technocratic governments called into existence by an increasingly activist presidency. What explains this third, mixed model?
Frequency of potential causes of lower back pain and incidental findings in patients with suspected sacroiliitis: retrospective analysis of 886 patients with negative sacroiliac MRI examination for sacroiliitis
Authors: Kaya Hasan Emin , Kerimoğlu Ülkü
Published: October 2020

Background

In a majority of patients with suspected sacroiliitis (SI) who underwent sacroiliac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), imaging studies may be normal, may depict other causes for pain, or may show clinically irrelevant incidental findings.

Purpose

To determine the prevalence of possible etiologies other than SI and frequency of incidental findings demonstrated on sacroiliac MRI examinations in a cohort of patients with lower back pain and suspected SI.

Material and Methods

Sacroiliac MRI examinations of 1421 patients with suspected SI were retrospectively reviewed. In patients without SI findings, other potential causes for lower back pain and incidental findings were documented.

Results

SI was present in 535 of 1421 patients (37.6%). In 886 of the patients whose MRI studies were negative for SI, other possible causes for lower back pain or incidental findings were seen in 386 (43.5%). The most common musculoskeletal (MSK) finding was lumbosacral transitional vertebra (8.6%) followed by findings suggesting piriformis syndrome (4.2%), spondylosis (3.7%), and sacral insufficiency fractures (1.8%). The most common non-MSK findings were follicular cysts (15.3%) and uterine fibroids (4.9%).

Conclusion

In patients with suspected SI but negative MRI examinations for SI, some other possible causes for lower back pain and several incidental findings can be seen on imaging. The presence of these findings may explain the patient’s symptoms, and awareness of these conditions may be helpful in patient management and individualizing treatment.
Effect of gonadotropins and endometrial thickness on pregnancy outcome in patients with unexplained infertility or polycystic ovarian syndrome undergoing intrauterine insemination
Authors: Li Qing , Zhu Maoling , Deng Zhuxiu , Wang Lihua , Huang Yi , Ruan Liming , Hu Shaofei , Wang Liping
Published: October 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of gonadotropin dose and endometrial thickness (EMT) on pregnancy outcome in patients undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 361 patients with unexplained infertility or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) who underwent 930 IUI cycles treated with gonadotropins. Then, we measured the effects of gonadotropins and EMT on the clinical pregnancy rate. Finally, we assessed the association of various doses of gonadotropins on EMT.

Results

The dose of gonadotropins given and thickness of the endometrium were higher in the pregnancy group than in the nonpregnancy group (636.0 vs. 600.0 IU for gonadotropin dose; 9.15 vs. 8.70 mm for EMT). Clinical pregnancy rates were significantly improved by increasing the dose of gonadotropins (9.1%, <450 IU; 16.2%, 450–599 IU; 18.6%, 600–749 IU, and 17.3%, ≥750 IU), or by increased EMT (0%, <5.0 mm; 12.2%, 5.0–6.9 mm; 15.5%, 7.0–14.0 mm; and 33.3%, >14.0 mm).

Conclusion

Increasing the dose of gonadotropins to stimulate one follicle to develop may benefit endometrial proliferation and improve IUI outcomes.
Evaluation of Alternative Messages and Sign Locations on Driver Response to a Dynamic Speed Feedback Sign on a Freeway Interchange Ramp
Authors: Gates Timothy J. , Mahmud Md Shakir , Ingle Anthony J. , Motz Matthew , Holpuch Travis , Savolainen Peter T.
Published: October 2020

Research was undertaken to determine effective messaging strategies and sign positions for dynamic speed feedback signs (DSFS) when used for speed management at freeway ramp curves. A field evaluation was performed in this setting to assess the impacts of a DSFS on driver speed selection and braking characteristics while approaching and entering the curve. Three feedback messaging strategies were evaluated at three sign positions in advance of the curve. Compared with the existing site (without the DSFS), the DSFS reduced curve entry speeds and improved brake response across all test conditions, particularly for heavy trucks. Overall, considering the combination of both sign position and feedback messaging strategy, the greatest benefits to driver behavior were attained when the DSFS was positioned 255 ft upstream of the curve and the feedback message included the speed number alternating with a SLOW DOWN message. The inclusion of an advisory speed panel with the DSFS did not have a substantive impact on driver behavior. Based on the findings, the continued use of DSFS as a speed reduction treatment at freeway ramp curves is recommended. Specifically, the sign should be positioned to provide adequate time for drivers to perceive and react to the message, such that comfortable braking can be accommodated while approaching the curve. However, the sign should not be placed too far in advance of the curve, as drivers may be more likely to disregard such a premature warning message. Further evaluation of DSFS under various alternative ramp configurations is recommended.
90-Day Complication Rate After the Latarjet Procedure in a High-Volume Center
Authors: Scanlon John P. , Hurley Eoghan T. , Davey Martin S. , Gaafar Mohamed , Pauzenberger Leo , Moran Cathal J. , Mullett Hannan
Published: October 2020

Background:

The Latarjet procedure is indicated for patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability, previous failed soft tissue stabilization, glenoid bone loss, or high-risk factors for recurrence, although there is still a concern with the surgical complication rates associated with the Latarjet procedure.

Purpose:

To evaluate the 90-day complication rate after the open Latarjet procedure in a high-volume center.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent an open Latarjet procedure at our institution over a 5-year period between January 2015 and December 2019. The complications, readmissions, and reoperations within 90 days were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 441 patients with a mean age of 23.0 ± 5.7 years was included; 97.5% of the patients were male. There were 2 intraoperative complications (0.5%): 1 coracoid fracture and 1 anaphylactic reaction to vancomycin. Overall, there were 19 postoperative complications (4.3%) in 18 patients, with 4 (0.9%) readmissions for revision surgery. Hematomas were the most common complication, occurring in 12 patients (2.7%), with 9 (2.0%) requiring a return to the operating theater during their stay for an evacuation. In those who required a readmission for a reoperation, 1 was for a hematoma requiring a washout, 2 were for irrigation and debridement of a surgical site infection, and the third was for a biceps tenodesis in a patient with severe bicipital pain. No patients had recurrence or any postoperative graft complications; additionally, there were no neurovascular complications.

Conclusion:

We found that in a high-volume center, the open Latarjet procedure has a low 90-day complication rate with a low revision rate. Hematomas were the most common complication experienced by patients who underwent the Latarjet procedure, while there was no recurrent instability or neurological or hardware complications reported among the 441 patients included in this study.
Developmental Moderators of a Single-Session Incremental Theory of Personality Intervention on Aggressive Behavior
Authors: Calvete Esther , Fernández-González Liria , Echezarraga Ainara , Orue Izaskun , Muga Javier , Longa Mikel
Published: October 2020

This study examines two indicators of developmental level (testosterone and grade) as moderators of the effects of a single-session incremental theory of personality intervention on both traditional and online aggressive behaviors. A sample of 535 Spanish adolescents (boys: 50%; age: 12–17 years) participated in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomized to receive the incremental theory of personality intervention or an alternative educational control condition. The intervention consisted of teaching the belief that people can change. Aggressive behaviors were measured at baseline, one-week posttest, and six-month and twelve-month follow-ups. Testosterone level moderated the effectiveness of the intervention for online aggressive behavior so that, among adolescents with low and medium testosterone levels, those in the control group increased online aggressive behavior, whereas adolescents receiving the intervention remained at similar levels of perpetration. Grade moderated the effectiveness of the intervention on both forms of aggressive behavior, being only effective in Grade 8. Overall, the findings indicate that some preventative interventions can be more effective among adolescents with lower levels of development.
Imperatives of the Present: Black Lives Matter and the politics of memory and memorialization
Authors: Leyh Brianne McGonigle
Published: October 2020

Black Lives Matter is having a profound impact on how individuals and communities view their repressive histories and their present environments. The movement has greatly influenced the questioning of everyday landscapes and the role of official memory in the erection, maintenance, or removal of monuments and memorials. In this column, I shed light on these phenomena, and highlight the tensions that exist between the acknowledgement and removal of racist or problematic memorials and statues and the protection of historical monuments and cultural heritage more generally. A human rights approach to memorialization would be a step in the right direction, while recognizing that the imperatives of the present shape memorialization efforts. It calls on those in the human rights field to continue pressing for critical reflection and debate around racism and memory landscapes, and to call out and expose racism in all of its forms in order to bring about social change.
Reliability optimization of a large-size tubular negative Poisson’s ratio battery protection structure
Authors: Ma Tao , Dai Shijuan , Wang Weiwei , Wang Yuanlong , Zhou Guan , Zhao Wanzhong
Published: October 2020

The battery pack placed on the chassis of an electric vehicle is easily to be damaged in a side collision because of its large volume. Therefore, the power battery pack should comprise a protective structure that can cover the entire side. Because the traditional hollow structure has limited performance, this paper proposes a large-size tubular negative Poisson's ratio (LTNPR) protection structure. A 2D LTNPR structure that can protect the side of battery pack entirely is designed and its mechanical properties are calculated. Then, the FE model of the battery pack equipped with LTNPR structure is analyzed under side pole impact by CAE simulation, which verifies the superiority of the LTNPR structure over the traditional hollow structure. Finally, deterministic optimization and reliability optimization are applied. The study and results demonstrate that compared with traditional structure, the LTNPR structure can improve the crashworthiness of the power battery pack significantly. Furthermore, the specific energy absorption (SEA) of LTNPR structure is increased by 28.81% and the maximum acceleration of battery pack is reduced by 15.29% through deterministic optimization, while the σ level is increased from 2.8448 to 8 through reliability optimization. The passive safety of electric vehicle is improved.
Studies on changes in the temperature field and recrystallization properties of glass fiber reinforced polypropylene composite strip winding process
Authors: Xu Jiazhong , Fu Tianyu , Hui Zhao
Published: October 2020

The glass fiber reinforced polypropylene (GF/PP) composite ring specimens were fabricated based on the composites prepreg tape winding process. The heated winding process was simulated by ANSYS software to obtain the temperature distribution of the wound layer of the specimen. At the same time, the temperature of the wound layer was collected and stored using a temperature-controlled recorder. The temperature fields between the wound layers were found to be different significantly, and the temperature measured through experiments was generally below the simulation results, where it is especially noticeable in the fusion zone. After the recrystallization of GF/PP specimen, the maximum shear strength that the specimen can withstand was improved. The response surface method was used to test and analyze the influence of recrystallization on the mechanical properties of the specimen, Obtain optimized process parameters, heating temperature of 91 °C, pressure of the press roller is 106 N, heating time of 13 min, the highest sample obtained is 28.67Mpa. The experimental results show that the influence of recrystallization parameters on the mechanical properties of the composite specimens (from large to small) are: heating temperature, heating time, and the roller pressure.
Spectral features based convolutional neural network for accurate and prompt identification of schizophrenic patients
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Singh Sukhjeet , Malhotra Jyoteesh
Published: October 2020

Schizophrenia is a fatal mental disorder, which affects millions of people globally by the disturbance in their thinking, feeling and behaviour. In the age of the internet of things assisted with cloud computing and machine learning techniques, the computer-aided diagnosis of schizophrenia is essentially required to provide its patients with an opportunity to own a better quality of life. In this context, the present paper proposes a spectral features based convolutional neural network (CNN) model for accurate identification of schizophrenic patients using spectral analysis of multichannel EEG signals in real-time. This model processes acquired EEG signals with filtering, segmentation and conversion into frequency domain. Then, given frequency domain segments are divided into six distinct spectral bands like delta, theta-1, theta-2, alpha, beta and gamma. The spectral features including mean spectral amplitude, spectral power and Hjorth descriptors (Activity, Mobility and Complexity) are extracted from each band. These features are independently fed to the proposed spectral features-based CNN and long short-term memory network (LSTM) models for classification. This work also makes use of raw time-domain and frequency-domain EEG segments for classification using temporal CNN and spectral CNN models of same architectures respectively. The overall analysis of simulation results of all models exhibits that the proposed spectral features based CNN model is an efficient technique for accurate and prompt identification of schizophrenic patients among healthy individuals with average classification accuracies of 94.08% and 98.56% for two different datasets with optimally small classification time.
Acquired lymphangioma circumscriptum in high-grade penile intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Kreuter Alexander , Oellig Frank , Kuntz Thomas , Paschos Alexandros , Silling Steffi , Akgül Baki , Wieland Ulrike
Published: October 2020

Lymphangioma circumscriptum (LC) is a rare, benign vascular malformation induced by abnormal lymphatic vessels of the skin. LC might be either congenital or acquired, and is predominantly located on the trunk, buttock, axillary region, or thighs. Penile LC is rare. This case report describes a patient with acquired LC associated with high-grade penile intraepithelial neoplasia induced by human papillomavirus type 66. As the patient had multifocal lesions on the glans penis and prepuce we decided to perform circumcision, followed by electrocoagulation of the lesions on the glans. Electrocautery should be considered as a first choice for treatment of LC located at surgically challenging regions such as the glans penis.
Successful treatment of trichomoniasis with tinidazole following desensitization in a patient allergic to metronidazole
Authors: Biagi Mark , Slipke Wendy , Smalley Alexa , Tsaras Geoffrey
Published: October 2020

Metronidazole desensitization is recommended in patients with trichomoniasis and history of an allergic reaction to metronidazole due to presumed cross reactivity with tinidazole and lack of reliably safe and effective alternative therapies. We report our experiences in a patient with persistent trichomoniasis who failed to complete metronidazole desensitization due to a burning sensation over her whole body and pruritus but was later successfully desensitized to tinidazole without experiencing any adverse effects.
The Altered Course of Learning: How Alcohol Outcome Expectancies Are Shaped by First Drinking Experiences
Authors: Treloar Padovano Hayley , Janssen Tim , Sokolovsky Alexander , Jackson Kristina M.
Published: October 2020

According to expectancy theory, outcome expectancies are first formed vicariously (through observing other people) and then through direct experience. This cohort-sequential longitudinal study explored these expectancy origins in 1,023 youths (52% female, ages 10.5–15.5 years at recruitment, M = 12.47 years, SD = 0.95). Discontinuous multilevel growth models described patterns of change in expectancies before and after the first experience of distinct drinking milestones (i.e., first sip, first full drink, first heavy-drinking situation). Youths’ expectations for positive and negative drinking outcomes generally increased and decreased over adolescence, respectively, reflecting general developmental trends. Drinking experiences altered learning trajectories, however, reifying positive expectancies and invalidating negative expectancies at each milestone and altering the course of expectancy change thereafter. For positive outcome expectancies, the influence of direct experience on learning was stronger when drinking milestones were met at an earlier age. Conversely, invalidation of negative expectancies was stronger when the first-drink milestone was met at a later age.
The history of mental health policy in Turkey: tradition, transition and transformation
Authors: Bilir Merve Kardelen , Artvinli Fatih
Published: October 2020

This article offers a brief history and the evolution of mental health policy in Turkey. It aims to analyse how mental health policies were transformed and why certain policies were introduced at specific times. The modern history of mental health policy is divided into three periods: the institutionalization of psychiatry and hospital-based mental health services; the introduction of community-based mental healthcare services; and lastly, the policy of deinstitutionalization after the 1980s. These periods have been categorized in a way that basically coincides with Turkey’s modern political history.
Farmworkers—Always Essential, Always at Risk: An Interview With Jeannie Economos
Authors: Unseld Monica
Published: October 2020

In 1983, Central Florida farmworkers united to create the Farmworker Association of Florida after freezes to orange groves left them out of work. The group now has five offices in the state and more than 10,000 members. Jeannie Economos is the Coordinator of the Pesticide Safety and Environmental Health Project at the Farmworker Association of Florida. In an interview, she discusses the impact of racism, immigration, climate change and COVID-19 on the farmworker community.
Free vibration and buckling analysis of elastically supported transversely inhomogeneous functionally graded nanoplate in thermal environment using Rayleigh–Ritz method
Authors: Singh Piyush P , Azam Mohammad S
Published: October 2020

In this study, free vibration and buckling behaviors of a functionally graded nanoplate supported by the Winkler–Pasternak foundation using a nonlocal classical plate theory are investigated. Eringen’s nonlocal differential model has been used for considering the small-scale effect. The properties of the functionally graded nanoplate are considered to vary transversely following the power law. The governing vibration and buckling equations of an elastically supported functionally graded nanoplate have been derived using the principle of virtual work, and the solution is obtained using the Rayleigh–Ritz method and characteristic polynomials. The advantage of this method is that it disposes of all the drawbacks regarding edge constraints. The objective of the article is to see the effect of edge constraints, aspect ratios, material property exponent, nonlocal parameter, and foundation parameters on the nondimensionalized frequency and the buckling load of an embedded functionally graded nanoplate in a thermal environment. The study highlights that the nonlocal effect is pronounced for higher modes and/or higher aspect ratios and need to be considered for the analysis of the nanoplate. Further, it is observed that the effect of the Pasternak foundation is prominent on nondimensionalized frequencies and buckling of the functionally graded nanoplate.
Rail/wheel rolling noise generation due to parametric excitation
Authors: Nordborg Anders
Published: October 2020

When a wheel rolls over a railway rail, it ‘sees’ a varying stiffness downwards because the rail is periodically supported by sleepers, leading to parametric excitation of the rail/wheel system. This study investigates the importance of parametric excitation on railway noise generation. Because the problem is non-stationary, it is modelled in the time domain. Rail and wheel impulse response functions, together with an iteration scheme to match boundary conditions in the rail/wheel contact patch, yield rail and wheel response plus contact force at each wheel position on the rail. Forward velocity and rotation of the elastic wheel are accounted for. Feedback coupling between response and force takes part in the excitation. Numerical simulations show that, for a rail on stiff pads, parametric excitation is a major excitation mechanism, above all leading to increased excitation and noise levels in a broad frequency region around the pinned–pinned frequency.
Continuous convolution and nonlinear transformation for multi-shaker non-Gaussian random vibration control
Authors: Zheng Ronghui , Lu Yue , Chen Huaihai , Chen Guoping
Published: October 2020

This study proposes a continuous convolution method combined with memoryless nonlinear transformation for multi-input multi-output stationary non-Gaussian random vibration tests. The challenge of the multi-shaker non-Gaussian random vibration test lies in the coupling problems that are manifested in the inherent physical system and in the existence of cross-spectral densities. In the presented method, the independent stationary Gaussian random signals pass through a designed finite impulse response filter with a convolution manipulation first, and then the resulting signals are transformed to the non-Gaussian random signals by the memoryless nonlinear transformation method. The desired drive signals are obtained by the input–output relationship in the frequency domain. The finite impulse response filter is constructed by the frequency sampling technique in which the amplitude characteristics of the filter are determined by the predefined reference power spectral densities. A new monotonic nonlinear transformation function with an approximate kurtosis solution is provided. It only contains one parameter for kurtosis control both in sub-Gaussian and super-Gaussian cases. The memoryless nonlinear transformation is used to maintain the cross-spectral densities, although some distortions are introduced to the power spectra during the transformation process. The inverse system method is used to overcome the coupling problem caused by the inherent physical system. A simulation example and a triaxial vibration test are carried out, and the results indicate the validity and feasibility of the proposed method.
Automating to control: The unexpected consequences of modern automated work delivery in practice
Authors: Lammi Inti José
Published: October 2020

This paper explores how automation efforts with the intent to control work in modern work places can unfold. Building on a longitudinal study of a governmental agency’s efforts to implement automated work delivery technology to enforce work guidelines, I show how aspects of work might become more automated but the rationale of automation might fail to manifest as originally intended. Technology and the formal structure inscribed into it to control work might conflict with the demands of work practice. Moreover, the findings show how automated control can be resisted by workers through subversive organizing in teams to reacquire work discretion. Through an analysis of automated control in practice, this paper contributes to discussions of technologies of control and how pragmatic resistance can emerge to counteract such technology.
Deep learning analysis of social media content used by Bahraini women: WhatsApp in focus
Authors: Elareshi Mokhtar , Ziani Abdul-Karim , Al Shami Ahmad
Published: October 2020

This article examines perceptions of social media use (e.g. the WhatsApp application), in particular looking at how Bahraini women use such technology and how mobile communication is used by such a segment of the population. Mobile devices are very accessible to Bahraini women and this needs even further study to learn ways of using applications for information and other things. This analysis is based on an online survey, conducted among 1137 Bahraini women, using a nonrepresentative sample (snowball). Such data were analyzed using a deep learning approach which utilizes, in particular, the Fuzzy Proximity Knowledge Mining technique to examine the provided answers. The study found that WhatsApp has enabled Bahraini women to communicate and share information with others. They spent 2–3 h daily sending and enjoying comics and entertainment clips and important and rare news stories. Social interaction, communication, and escapism featured strongly as the most popular reasons for using WhatsApp. Overall, WhatsApp served as a platform used to participate in social and communication activities.
In the mood of data and measurements: experiments as affirmative critique, or how to curate academic value with care
Authors: Staunæs Dorthe , Brøgger Katja
Published: October 2020

The technologies used to govern performance at universities consist of monitoring and comparative instruments. They are designed to affect and direct behaviour. In these academic environments of exposure, comparison and self-monitoring are deeply entangled with a vulnerable affective economy. This article explores how these data may affect our moods and how academic value could be curated by other means and with care. Drawing on feminist new materialist thinking and speculative feminist storytelling, the article takes this picture of the actual as a point of departure for discussing ways of experimenting with affirmative critique of the current use of data. Through a smaller experiment with thirty PhD students, the article discusses how to speculatively curate academic value by other means that provide more liveable world(ing)s than data visuals measuring performance and that engage other sensorial and affective registers.
Taking risks to enable participatory data analysis and dissemination: a research note
Authors: Rix Jonathan , Carrizosa Helena Garcia , Sheehy Kieron , Seale Jane , Hayhoe Simon
Published: October 2020

The involvement of all participants within all aspects of the research process is a well-established challenge for participatory research. This is particularly evident in relation to data analysis and dissemination. A novel way of understanding and approaching this challenge emerged through a large-scale international, 3-year participatory research project involving over 200 disabled people. This approach enabled people to be involved at all stages of the research in a manner that was collectively recognised to be participatory and also delivered high-quality findings. At the heart of this emergent approach to participatory research is an engagement with risk. This research note explores the types of risks involved in delivering research that seeks to be authentically participatory.
Personalising disaster: Community storytelling and sharing in New Orleans post-Katrina tourism
Authors: Mahn Churnjeet , Scarles Caroline , Edwards Justin , Tribe John
Published: October 2020

This paper seeks to extend existing discussions of post-disaster tourism in New Orleans by considering how competing narratives of disaster operate within the tourist experience available in New Orleans. More specifically, we explore how personal reflections and the collective memories of a community are practiced and mobilised as occasions for tourists to connect with and share in memories of disaster in post-Katrina New Orleans. We suggest that in a city where tourism has long been vital to the economic, social and cultural make-up of the place the power of sharing has emerged through personal narratives, artefacts and experiences that, more than a decade after the disaster, are woven into the tourist experience by individuals such as tour guides, curators of exhibitions, street artists, and participants in anniversary ceremonies.
Receiving a diagnosis of young onset dementia: Evidence-based statements to inform best practice
Authors: O’Malley Mary , Parkes Jacqueline , Campbell Jackie , Stamou Vasileios , LaFontaine Jenny , Oyebode Jan R , Carter Janet
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Better understanding of patient experience is an important driver for service improvements and can act as a lever for system change. In the United Kingdom, the patient experience is now a central issue for the National Health Service Commissioning Board, clinical commissioning groups and the providers they commission from. Traditionally, dementia care in the United Kingdom has focused predominantly on the individual experience of those with late onset dementia, while the voice of those with young onset dementia has been, comparatively, unheard. This study aims to improve the understanding of the personal experience of younger people undergoing investigation for dementia.

Methods

A modified Delphi approach was undertaken with 18 younger people with dementia and 18 supporters of people with young onset dementia. Questions were informed by a scoping review of the literature (O’Malley, M., Carter, J., Stamou, V., Lafontaine, J., & Parkes, J. (2019a). Receiving a diagnosis of young onset dementia: A scoping review of lived experiences. Ageing & Mental Health, 0(0), 1-12). Summary individual statements were refined over two rounds to a final list of 29 key statements.

Results

Twenty-seven of these statements were rated as absolutely essential or very important and included (1) for the general practitioner to identify dementia in younger people, (2) clinicians should be compassionate, empathic and respectful during the assessment and particularly sensitive when providing information about a diagnosis, and (3) remembering that receiving the diagnosis is a lot to absorb for a person with dementia and their supporter. Statistical analyses found no difference in the scoring patterns between younger people with dementia and supporters, suggesting similar shared experiences during the diagnostic process.

Conclusion

Understanding the uniquely personal experience of young people going through the process of diagnosis for dementia is essential to provide person-centred, needs-led, and cost-effective services. Patient’s values and experiences should be used to support and guide clinical decision-making.
Support groups for family caregivers of persons with dementia in India
Authors: Lamech Neha , Lakshminarayanan Monisha , Vaitheswaran Sridhar , John Sujit , Rangaswamy Thara
Published: October 2020

A caregiver support group was initiated at the Schizophrenia Research Foundation, Chennai, India. The study aimed to evaluate this service for 100 caregivers of persons with dementia, identify the needs met and explore the facilitating factors and barriers for participation. The support group met the information, emotional and counselling needs of caregivers. Trust between members was a key facilitating factor. Lack of help at home to support the person with dementia, distance from the venue and work commitments were barriers to caregiver participation. The study found that support groups fulfil an important need for caregivers by providing information and peer support.
Preliminary Clinical Evaluation Using a Novel Bioengineered Wound Product to Treat Lower Extremity Ulcers
Authors: Rodriguez Isaac A. , Strombergsson Axel , Weinstein Robert , Maloney Amanda , Hendrix Christopher , Liden Brock , Fridman Robert
Published: October 2020

Diabetes mellitus affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide, each of which have up to a 25% risk of developing a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) during their lifetime. With poor DFU healing rates using standard of care, advanced treatments are introduced to attempt to close the wound. The objective of this preliminary clinical evaluation was to evaluate lower extremity ulcers treated with a novel bioengineered wound product (BWP). The BWP, a solid absorbable and conformable sheet composed of gelatin, Manuka honey, and hydroxyapatite, was applied on 12 patients with lower extremity ulcers. The patients in this evaluation spanned across 4 sites and had complicated medical histories, including little to no progression of healing with standard of care or treatment with other biomaterials. The ulcers were treated with debridement, BWP placement, dressing, appropriate compression, and offloading as necessary. Weekly follow-up visits were recommended for evaluation, debridement, and BWP reapplication. Nine patients had the BWP applied to aid in full closure. These patients achieved 100% closure within 8 weeks, with a mean closure time of 4.1 weeks. At 4 weeks, the mean percent wound closure was 94%. Three patients had the BWP applied to aid in achieving a healthy wound bed for continued treatment (eg, splitthickness skin graft) and to cover (epithelialization over) an exposed tendon. In all 12 cases, no treatment site infections were observed. The results and observations from this preliminary clinical evaluation suggest that the BWP supports rapid wound closure, a predictor of complete healing for DFUs.
An Integrative Approach to Building Peace Using Digital Media
Authors: Grunewald Philipp , Hedges Mark
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this article is to offer scholars and practitioners a more coherent and holistic starting point for asking questions about information and communication technologies for peacebuilding than has been available so far. A transdisciplinary proposal is made that applies critical pedagogy of peace education to the way that digital media can be used to build peace in communities and societies. This argument is further underpinned by insights from cognitive science and social psychology. The concept of sociotechnical consciousness is developed, which describes what it is like to be experiencing a sociotechnical system. We conclude that, to deploy digital media as part of peacebuilding initiatives, the media’s impact on individuals and groups deserve as much consideration as the content that is delivered via these media. This has important implications for how to design and use media in peacebuilding contexts.
Methylene blue usage for determining accessory artery ligation in donor kidneys
Authors: Li Yang , Song Yajun , Hu Wengang , Wang Xu , Xiao Ya , Huang Chibing
Published: October 2020

Objectives. We present a technique for determining whether to ligate or preserve accessory arteries in donor kidneys before implantation. Methods. Forty-three living-related donor kidneys in patients from January 2014 to February 2018 at our institution were included, all of which had dual arteries without the same stem. Among them, 19 cases of accessory arterial blood supply were evaluated using methylene blue (MB) perfusion, and accessory arteries supplying less than 10% of the total MB perfusion volume were ligated. The other 24 cases were assessed using a conventional method in which arteries with diameters less than 2 mm were ligated. The back-table surgical time, Doppler ultrasonography index, renal function and complications were compared between the 2 groups. Results. All patients underwent successful kidney transplantation. The back-table surgical time in the MB group was longer than that in the conventional group (42.70 ± 4.70 min vs 34.64 ± 5.30 min, P < .05). The serum creatinine level in the MB group was significantly lower than that in the conventional group 1 month after the operation (103.15 ± 19.26 μmol/L vs 119.17 ± 28.32 μmol/L, P < .05). No differences in the Doppler ultrasonography index or postoperative complications were noted. Conclusions. MB perfusion provides an easy and effective method to make decisions regarding arterial ligation and helps preserve renal function without increasing the number of complications after transplantation.