bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibiting M1 Macrophage Polarization, Using Small Interfering Forkhead Box Class Family Protein 1 (FOXO1)-Loaded Selenium Nanoparticles, Alleviates Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Mei Qing , Shou Diwen , Quan Ying , Cheng Jiemin , Pan Pan , Chen Huiting , Huang Hongli , Li Yongqiang , Xia Yu , Zhou Yongjian
Published: November 2022

Lipid deposition is a key predisposing factor of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). FOXO1 is obviously expressed in polarized M1 macrophages and may cause liver cell steatosis. Thus, silencing FOXO1 during M1 macrophage polarization using small interfering RNA (siRNA) technology
may alleviate lipid deposition in liver cells. However, a lack of effective and biocompatible carriers is challenging for such siRNA-delivery to macrophages. To improve this, RGDfC peptide-modified selenium nanoparticles (RGDfC-Se NPs) were fabricated as a siFOXO1 delivery carrier system.
We showed that RGDfC-Se NPs effectively increased siFOXO1 cellular uptake and silenced FOXO1 expression in human peripheral blood monocyte-like macrophages (THP-1 cells). Additionally, RGDfC-Se@siFOXO1 blocked M1 polarization in these cells. Also, FOXO-1-suppressed cell supernatants extenuated
lipid deposition in LO2 liver cells probably by down-regulating the expression of lipid deposition-related fat metabolic enzymes acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 and fatty acid synthase. Furthermore, our in vivo analyses showed that RGDfC-Se@siFOXO1 attenuated hepatic steatosis by inhibiting
M1 macrophage polarization in mouse liver tissue. Our studies represent a new strategy and clinic treatment target for NAFLD.
Type I Collagen Adsorption Behavior on the Control and Modified Surface of Polylactide Coating
Authors: Tian Ye , Zeng Qing-Hui , Shi Lin , Xian Zhi-Feng
Published: November 2022

Knowledge of the bio-macromolecules adsorption on polylactide (PLA) was essential to the application of PLA-based biomedical materials. This study presented the adsorption behavior of type I collagen on control (CH3-enriched) and modified (introduced COOH– and CONH2–
respectively) PLA surfaces by quartz crystal microbalance with energy dissipation measurements (QCM-D) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results showed that the Langmuir adsorption isotherms were obtained, indicating a monomolecular layer adsorption of collagen on PLA coatings. Adsorption
of collagen could reach equilibrium more quickly on the modified surfaces than on the control. Large amounts of collagen (1522.2 ng·cm−2) was assembled tightly on the COOH-enriched surface of PLA, owing to the electrostatic attracting. However it was inhibited on the
CONH2-enriched surface because of its increasing hydrophilicity. A netlike structure was formed on the control and COOH-enriched surfaces, while only a few of braching fibril was found on the CONH2-enriched surface. The behaviour of protein adsorption on the surfaces
with different groups might effect the next stage of cell adhesion on scaffold.
Turbulence Generated through Critical Reflection of Internal Waves off the Seafloor due to Nontraditional Effects
Authors: Delorme Bertrand L. , Thomas Leif N.
Published: November 2022

Recent work has shown that, when nontraditional (NT) effects associated with the horizontal component of the Coriolis parameter are taken into account, equatorial waves (EWs) experience critical reflection when they reflect off the seafloor at the latitude where their frequency is equal to the inertial frequency. As a result, the vertical shear associated with the wave is strongly enhanced locally and results in bottom-intensified mixing. Using an off-the-shelf parameterization for mixing, these studies have shown that this process could play an important role in driving diapycnal upwelling in the abyssal ocean, but the specific mechanisms generating the mixing have not been studied yet. In this work, we address this limitation by running two-dimensional, high-resolution, nonhydrostatic simulations of the critical reflection of internal waves modified by NT effects. These simulations can resolve the instabilities triggered when the wave reflects off the bottom, allowing us to characterize the energy cascade to smaller scales and to estimate the mixing it generates. We find that shear instabilities drive elevated turbulent diffusivities between 10−1 and −10−3 m2 s−1 over a critical layer of 100–300 m thick. The shear instabilities result directly from the enhancement of kinetic energy in the reflected wave that is confined against the seafloor during the critical reflection process. Simultaneously, higher harmonics are generated and flux energy upward in the water column. These higher harmonics are unstable to parametric subharmonic instability, which absorbs their energy and drive enhanced dissipation above the critical layer, to a height of O(1000) m off the bottom. We show how these results depend on key elements of the EWs and of the medium and discuss the implementation of a parameterization of these effects in global ocean models.
Immigrant generation, acculturation, and mental health literacy among former Soviet Union immigrants in Israel
Authors: Knaifel Evgeny , Youngmann Rafael , Neter Efrat
Published: November 2022

Background:

Research on Mental Health Literacy (MHL) has been growing in different geographical and cultural contexts. However, little is known about the relationship between immigrant generations, acculturation, stigma, and MHL among immigrant populations.

Aims:

This study aims to examine differences in MHL among immigrant generations (first, 1.5, and second) from the former Soviet Union (FSU) in Israel and to assess whether differences are accounted for by immigration generation or acculturation.

Method:

MHL was assessed among 420 participants using a cross-sectional survey adapted from the Australian National Survey. Associations of immigrant generation, socio-demographic characteristics, and acculturation with MHL indices were examined using bivariate and multivariable analyses.

Results:

First generation immigrants reported poorer identification of mental disorders and higher personal stigma than both 1.5- and second-generation immigrants. Acculturation was positively associated with identification of mental disorders and negatively associated with personal stigma across all immigrants’ generations. When all variables were entered into a multivariate model predicting MHL indices, acculturation and gender were associated with personal stigma and only acculturation was associated with better identification of mental disorders.

Conclusion:

Differences in MHL among FSU immigrants in Israel are mainly explained by acculturation rather than by immigrant generation. Implications for policy makers and mental health professionals working with FSU immigrants are discussed.
Physical analysis and statistical investigation of tensile and fatigue behaviors of glass fiber-reinforced polyester via novel fibers arrangement
Authors: Mahmoud Zaghloul Mahmoud Yousry , Yousry Zaghloul Moustafa Mahmoud , Yousry Zaghloul Mai Mahmoud
Published: November 2022

Polymer composite researchers have extensively explored the influences of fiber orientation, volume fraction, type, length, as well as the impacts of matrix type, matrix/reinforcement interface, fibers hybridization, and nanoparticle incorporation on the mechanical behaviors of fiber-reinforced composite materials. The impacts of tailored fiber architectures on the mechanical characteristics of bulk polymeric-based composites, on the other hand, have not been investigated. The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of fiber arrangement on the mechanical characteristics of glass fiber-reinforced polymeric materials (GFRP). Unreinforced (UR) polyester, surface reinforced arranged (SRA) composites and bulk reinforced arranged (BRA) composites were fabricated. Characterizations have been performed using scanning electron microscope rotating bending fatigue machine and a universal testing machine. Results demonstrate that SRA’s lifespan after being exposed to bending fatigue has increased significantly with respect to UR and BRA samples. Average fatigue life for SRA samples is 61 times longer than the life of BRA samples at 56 MPa bending stress. Furthermore, a Weibull distribution function with shape parameter and scale parameter was implemented to analyze the fatigue life dataset statistically. The introduction of SRA novel design has promising results for cost reduction as well as quality improvement.
Ask for Reviews at the Right Time: Evidence from Two Field Experiments
Authors: Jung Miyeon , Ryu Sunghan , Han Sang Pil , Cho Daegon
Published: November 2022

This study examines how the timing of review reminders affects the likelihood and quality of product review postings. The authors postulate that review reminders have two distinct effects, depending on the delivery timing. On the one hand, reminders of review posting given immediately or shortly after a product experience may threaten a consumer's freedom and prompt an adverse reaction. On the other hand, as time after the product experience passes, it may be advantageous to revive memories of review posting using delayed review reminders. To evaluate the effect of review reminders, the authors conduct two randomized field experiments. The findings show that immediate reminders reduce the chance of review postings relative to a randomized immediate control group who did not receive a reminder, consistent with the notion that the reactance induced by the violation of freedom due to instant review reminders outweighs the benefit of memory recall. Conversely, delayed reminders significantly increase the likelihood of review posting compared with a randomized delayed control, suggesting that the memory recall benefit surpasses reactance. However, the timing of review reminders has little effect on review content. The study contributes to the literature on the temporal effects of marketing activities and provides practical advice for online marketplaces to collect more product reviews.
Racial Differences in Response to Chadwick Boseman’s Colorectal Cancer Death: Media Use as a Coping Tool for Parasocial Grief
Authors: Myrick Jessica G. , Willoughby Jessica F. , Clark Meredith D.
Published: November 2022

The August 2020 death of Black actor Chadwick Boseman, at age 43 from colon cancer was a notable public event. Given Boseman’s popularity, particularly amongst Black audiences, and racial disparities in colorectal cancer rates, public responses to this news provided a window into potential racial differences in expressing and responding to parasocial grief, that is, grief at the loss of a public figure. Additionally, given how the movies he starred in were easily viewable by audiences stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic and given his popularity on digital spaces like Black Twitter, this case offers insights into how media use can help people cope with parasocial grief. We conducted a mixed-methods survey study of audience responses Boseman’s death. Quantitative results reveal that Black audiences had different rates of social sharing and movie viewing than non-Black audiences, with additional insights emerging from a thematic analysis of the open-ended data.
Using an Iterative Approach to Systematically Observe Culturally Responsive Practices Across Classrooms
Authors: Larios Rosalinda J. , Karras Juliana E. , Suárez-Orozco Carola , Bashir-Baaqee Inayah S.J.
Published: November 2022

Though culturally responsive practices (CRP) are widely lauded as important for educational practice, the field to date does not have a systematic video-based strategy to observe CRP across classrooms. Through a qualitative review of 68 classroom videos from the Measures of Effective Teaching dataset, we examined the presence, absence, and antithesis of CRP. Strikingly, our analyses revealed that CRP were largely absent from the observations. Building upon our meticulous and reflective iterative process, we discuss measurement challenges and link findings with practice-focused recommendations that can serve to bolster teacher education in a crucial domain for an increasingly complex, multicultural society.
Re-contextualising purpose-built student accommodation in secondary cities: The role of planning policy, consultation and economic need during austerity
Authors: Heslop Julia , Chambers Josh , Maloney James , Spurgeon George , Swainston Hannah , Woodall Hannah
Published: November 2022

The rise of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) has become a dominant feature of many secondary cities over the last decade. These cities often have weaker property markets than ‘primary’ or capital cities and often rely on the ‘knowledge economy’ to drive economic and urban development. A growing body of work has explored the effects of ‘new-build studentification’ and its relationship to economic crisis and the financialisation of housing. Less attention has been paid to how the localised political and economic impacts of austerity led to the creation of particular planning policies and actions to facilitate PBSA. Through a case study of a housing estate in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, whose ward has seen a 467% increase in student housing numbers, this article highlights that student housing is shaped not merely by issues of supply and demand but also often by planning practice and local economic demands. Whilst we recognise that PBSA development is also reliant on particular global economic conditions and investment strategies, this article calls for a more relational, contextual approach to examining PBSA. We pay specific attention to local political and institutional actors and their policies, working practices and social constructs amidst austerity.
Russian Foreign Policy in Latin America and the Caribbean in the Twenty-first Century
Authors: Kosevich Ekaterina
Published: November 2022

A comprehensive examination of Russia's foreign policy in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that, while interstate relations varied in the first quarter of the twenty-first century with shifts in the international environment and the foreign and domestic sociopolitical situation, this policy was symbolic, ill-considered, and reactive. Post-Soviet Russia has not created a system of partnerships in the region that would ensure the stability of foreign policy outcomes in the face of fluctuations of the regional conjuncture.

Un análisis exhaustivo de la política exterior de Rusia en América Latina y el Caribe muestra que, si bien las relaciones interestatales variaron en el primer cuarto del siglo XXI con cambios en el entorno internacional y la situación sociopolítica exterior e interna, esta política fue simbólica, poco recomendable y reactiva. La Rusia postsoviética no ha creado un sistema de asociaciones en la región que garantice la estabilidad de los resultados en política exterior ante las fluctuaciones de la coyuntura regional.
Economic evaluation of digitally enabled aged and neurological rehabilitation care in the Activity and MObility UsiNg Technology (AMOUNT) trial
Authors: Pinheiro Marina B , Hassett Leanne , Sherrington Catherine , Hayes Alison , van den Berg Maayken , Lindley Richard I , Crotty Maria , Chagpar Sakina , Treacy Daniel , Weber Heather , Fairhall Nicola , Wong Siobhan , McCluskey Annie , Togher Leanne , Scrivener Katharine , Howard Kirsten
Published: November 2022

Objective

To investigate the trial-based cost-effectiveness of the addition of a tailored digitally enabled exercise intervention to usual care shown to be clinically effective in improving mobility in the Activity and MObility UsiNg Technology (AMOUNT) rehabilitation trial compared to usual care alone.

Design

Economic evaluation alongside a pragmatic randomized controlled trial.

Participants

300 people receiving inpatient aged and neurological rehabilitation were randomized to the intervention ( n = 149) or usual care control group ( n = 151).

Main measures

Incremental cost effectiveness ratios were calculated for the additional costs per additional person demonstrating a meaningful improvement in mobility (3-point in Short Physical Performance Battery) and quality-adjusted life years gained at 6 months (primary analysis). The joint probability distribution of costs and outcomes was examined using bootstrapping.

Results

The mean cost saving for the intervention group at 6 months was AU$2286 (95% Bootstrapped cost CI: −$11,190 to $6410) per participant; 68% and 67% of bootstraps showed the intervention to be dominant (i.e. more effective and cost saving) for mobility and quality-adjusted life years, respectively. The probability of the intervention being cost-effective considering a willingness to pay threshold of AU$50,000 per additional person with a meaningful improvement in mobility or quality-adjusted life year gained was 93% and 77%, respectively.

Conclusions

The AMOUNT intervention had a high probability of being cost-effective if decision makers are willing to pay AU$50,000 per meaningful improvement in mobility or per quality-adjusted life year gained, and a moderate probability of being cost-saving and effective considering both outcomes at 6 months post randomization.
Quantitative analysis and spatial distribution of landform spatial structure on Loess Plateau
Authors: Lin Siwei , Chen Nan , Qianqian Zhzou , Feng Qiu , Jing Xie , Meng Qi , Yugui Fan , Zihao Yang , Weibin Lin , JiaYin Deng , Ping Tu
Published: November 2022

The Loess Plateau is the largest gully geomorphic region in the world, characterized by the most intense soil erosion in a typical loess-covered area. Previous studies have focused on the terrain and texture of this region; however, there have been no systematic studies on the gully spatial structure of the Loess Plateau. Therefore, the present study investigated the characteristics and spatial distribution of landform spatial structure over the Loess Plateau. Specifically, gully weighted complex networks (GWCNs) were applied to simulate the gully spatial structure of loess landforms, and a series of quantitative indices were introduced to delineate these. Using 57 geomorphological units uniformly distributed across the Loess Plateau as test areas and six typical loess landforms as sample areas, GWCNs were constructed, and using these GWCNs, the spatial structure and internal mechanisms of typical loess landforms were explored. From a series of fresh insights, such as the regional scale-free distribution, homologous structure, tightness, community effect, connectivity, stability, and complexity, regular variations in quantitative indices delineate the spatial distribution of the characteristics of landform spatial structure over the plateau. Moreover, the spatial distribution of complex network indices exhibited strong spatial coupling with loess landforms. Overall, GWCNs could be effectively used for landform recognition and performed well. In conclusion, these experimental results suggest that introducing complex networks into landform studies can offer novel insights into landform quantitative analyses. The present work is of great significance, as it proposes a new methodology for describing the spatial structure and terrain features of landforms in quantitative analyses and furthers our understanding of landform genesis.
An dynamical evaluation of size-dependent weakened nano-beam based on the nonlocal strain gradient theory
Authors: Eghbali Mohammadreza , Hosseini Seyed Amirhosein , Pourseifi Mehdi
Published: November 2022

This paper examines the free lateral vibration of a cracked nano-beam based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory and nonlocal strain gradient theory (NSGT). Due to the importance and application of nanostructures, their mechanical and mechanical properties are essential. The governing equations and boundary conditions related to using the Hamilton principle have been extracted. The beam separation with the nano-beams division into two parts attached to the Torsion spring is modeled. The model calls the excess strain energy due to crack and increases the discontinuity in the deflection slope. This study investigated the effects of crack propagation, crack intensity, material length scale parameter, and various nonlocal parameters. A comparison of previous studies has been published, where a good agreement is observed. The results show that the parameters mentioned above play an important role in dynamical behavior.
The performance characterization of carbon fiber–reinforced plastic for space applications
Authors: Sun Baolong , Xue Chuang , Shang Weihui , An Mingxin , Zhao Haojiang , Zhang Hansi
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the excellent dimensional stability and vacuum outgassing of high-performance carbon fiber–reinforced plastic (CFRP) were discussed. First, the high-performance resin matrix was obtained by modifying cyanate resin, and the modified cyanate ester was used to make prepreg and laminates. Then, the mechanical property retention rate of laminates reached 90.79% under proton and electron irradiation. The average values of total mass loss and collected volatile condensable material of high-performance CFRP were 0.116% and 0.008%, respectively. Finally, the candidate tube and frame were fabricated based on the ply lay-up design. The candidate tube and frame were subjected to a series of experiments of thermal deformation and hygroscopic deformation to verify the dimensional stability. The thermal deformations of the tube and frame reached 0.468 μm/m and 4.579 μm/m, respectively, with a temperature variation of 4°C. The measured hygroscopic deformation of the tube reached 8.16 μm/m in nearly 3 months. The experimental results show that the high-performance CFRP can be used for precision optical structures of space telescopes.
Combined experimental and numerical study on fuel deposition characteristics of an impinging PFI spray with different impingement geometries
Authors: Li Yaoting , Huang Yongcheng , Luo Kun
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a combined experimental and numerical study on the fuel deposition characteristics during the Port fuel injection (PFI) spray impingement process. The numerical models mainly consisted of a newly developed atomization model, the Senda spray impingement model, and the Bai-Gosman liquid film model. A group of measurement methods were used to hierarchically calibrate and validate the numerical models. It was found that the calibrated models were able to predict the time-resolved morphology of the impinging spray, as well as the shape, area, and thickness distribution of the deposited fuel film with a good reliability. Then the calibrated models were used to study the effects of impingement distance ( Lw) and impingement angle ( θw) on the fuel film deposition. The results showed that as Lw increases, the film area ( Af) and film mass ( mf) rise faster and reach higher final values. As θw increases, Af and mf grow slower, and their final values are hugely reduced. Increasing Lw and decreasing θw can effectively reduce the average film thickness ( hf,a). Af is mainly affected by the contact area between the spray plumes and the impinging wall, while mf is also affected by the dominant droplet-wall interaction regime.
Heating performance of heat pump air conditioning system for battery electric vehicle with different refrigerants
Authors: Lv Ran , Li Zhijun , Wang Yiming , Li Ming
Published: November 2022

To improve the heating performance of Heat Pump Air Conditioning System (HPACS) of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and reduce the greenhouse effect of refrigerants, the performances of multiple refrigerants in different modes and conditions are analyzed in this paper. Based on Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC) dynamic conditions, the impact of heating on battery State of Charge (SOC) is analyzed in HPACS and Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) combined heating mode. To better evaluate the contribution of refrigerants to the greenhouse effect, Total Equivalent Warming Impact (TEWI) is used to evaluate multiple refrigerants. The results show that heating capacity increases with the increment of compressor power and air velocity. As compressor power decreases and air velocity increases, COP increases. R32 and R744 are the optimal refrigerants. When the ambient temperature is between −10°C and −15°C under WLTC conditions, the SOC reduction of R32 system is 20.8%–21.1% less than that of R134a system. When the ambient temperature is between −20 and −25°C, the SOC reduction of R744 system is 21.4%–21.6% less than that of R134a system. And the carbon dioxide emissions of R32 and R744 systems are 35.1%, 66.9%, 39.2%, and 55.5% less than that of R134a system, respectively.
Stable and unstable curves in vehicle three-dimensional state space
Authors: Meng Fanyu , Shi Shuming , Zhang Boshi , Chen Boan , Lin Nan
Published: November 2022

In the field of vehicle system dynamics, revealing the dynamic characteristics of nonlinear vehicle models with high degrees of freedom is a key point in current research. In the classic 2-DOF (degrees of freedom) model, the dynamics is analysed and represented in two-dimensional state space. However, it is necessary to reveal the three-dimensional state characteristics of the system when analysing high-DOF vehicle models. The concept of equilibrium points in two-dimensional space will be extended to curves in three-dimensional space, including stable curves and unstable curves, which can qualitatively reveal the evolvement characteristics of the system under different control parameters. In addition, because the dissipation of energy method can quantitatively reveal the global dynamic characteristics of the vehicle, this paper combines the (un)stable curves in the three-dimensional space with dissipation of energy to better analyse the global dynamics characteristics and mutually verify the correctness of conclusions. In this paper, first, the connection between (un)stable curves and region boundary is established. Second, the theoretical analysis of relationship between dissipation of energy and phase trajectories convergence characteristics is perfected. Third, the static and dynamic characteristics of vehicle system are analysed. Therefore, this paper proposed the concept of stable and unstable curves to intuitively reveal the global dynamics characteristics and system evolvement characteristics in three-dimensional state space.
Study on the mechanical properties and fatigue failure mechanism of 7075-T6 aluminum alloy joints under different joining processes
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhu Linwei , Peng Ruitao , Xu Honghe , Lu Yan
Published: November 2022

To obtain the theoretical basis and reference basis for the selection of low ductility aluminum alloy joining methods, three kinds of joints were obtained using 7075-T6 aluminum alloy sheets for clinching, self-piercing riveting (SPR), and resistance spot welding (RSW) joints, and the single-lap shear tests were performed on the three kinds of joints, and fatigue tests were conducted on the clinched joints and SPR joints. The fatigue fracture of the SPR joint was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results showed that the SPR joint demonstrated the best static performance, followed by the clinched joint and the RSW joint. In the case of the fatigue test, the SPR joint showed better fatigue performance than that of the clinched joint. The fatigue failure of the SPR joint and clinched joint is associated with fretting wear. Fretting wear of the SPR joint is more severe than that of the clinched joint. The debris produced by fretting led to microcracking phenomena in the plate. Under the action of alternating load, the microcracks continued to expand and generate macrocracks, and the joint was broken and finally failed. This fretting wear is the root cause of the failure of the SPR joint. Thus, the SPR joints exhibited the best mechanical properties.
Graphene-gold/PDMS Maxwell hybrid nanofluidic flow in a squeezed channel with linear and irregular radiations
Authors: Bhargavi Dhanekula Naga , Gangadhar Kotha , Chamkha Ali J.
Published: November 2022

The hydrothermal performance of a hybrid nanofluid made of graphene, gold/polydimethylsiloxane between two squeezing plates is discussed in this study. In the investigation of thermal transport of the flow, both linear and nonlinear thermal radiation's effects are taken into account. Bejan numbers are used to determine the system's energy efficiency. Viscous and thermal radiation effects on Maxwell hybrid nanofluid flow in a squeezing channel are incorporated to explore the outcomes. By applying similarity transformations, the set of ordinary differential equations in this case is transformed into the governing equations. With the use of the Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg technique converted system is solved numerically. Skin friction and heat transfer rates under the influence of certain oriented parameters are numerically analysed and presented in tabular form. The impacts of different factors on the temperature and velocity profiles are illustrated graphically and briefly described. Important findings include that the Bejan number raises as the radiation parameter Rd rises, but that it falls with respect to the Eckert number effect. Additionally, the skin friction values and Nusselt number in the hybrid nanofluid case are larger than in the nanofluid case. Furthermore, it has been found that the Deborah number-described stress relaxation phenomenon causes the flow field and thermal energy transfer to be less efficient when fluids are moving. There is surprisingly little research on the hybrid fluid integrated into their issues.
Psychology: Where history, culture, and biology meet
Authors: Newton Tim
Published: November 2022

This article argues that the same epistemological assumptions cannot be confidently applied in the transition from the biological to the social arenas of psychology, as a consequence of the sociocultural instability resulting from human linguistic and technological flair. To illustrate this contention, reference is made to historicist theses within critical and sociocultural psychology, the work of Ian Hacking and Norbert Elias, the centrality of language and technology to sociocultural instability, and the illustrative issues raised by cultural neuroscience and replication studies.
A new compressible flow model for pneumatic directional control valves
Authors: Dağdelen Mustafa , Sarigeçili Mehmet İlteriş , Özbek Necdet Sinan
Published: November 2022

In this study, a new compressible flow model for small orifice openings in pneumatic proportional directional control valves has been proposed. It is crucial to precisely control pneumatic valves over all control ranges; yet, conventional flow models fail around the closed position of the valve. The main deficit of the existing studies in the literature is to assume constant values for the parameters of the flow model over changing operating conditions. It has been demonstrated that these rough assumptions are insufficient in precisely predicting the mass flow rate, particularly for small orifice openings. An enhanced experimental setup has been introduced to improve the effectiveness of the proposed model. The cracking pressure ratio and parameters of the model have been identified with experimental method. In the proposed model, new empirical coefficients have been established after a thorough investigation of the impact of supply pressure on the flow behavior of the valve. Validation studies of the model in both the filling and exhausting states of the valve have been carried out at various supply pressures and orifice openings, yielding rather promising modeling performances. In validation tests, the real pressure and the pressure produced by new model have been compared, and good agreement has been achieved with 0.0039% absolute error. According to the findings, the proposed improved flow model can be selected in precision pneumatic control applications.
Higher order sliding mode reactive power control of a hybrid power system with wind power and parameter uncertainty
Authors: Afzal Thoker Zahid , Ahmad Lone Shameem
Published: November 2022

Reactive power management and voltage control are the critical problems to be dealt with in hybrid power systems, considering the frequent changes in load and wind power along with parameter uncertainties. Therefore, in this work, the load-side converter with a doubly-fed induction generator is controlled and operated as a static synchronous compensator to provide reactive power support to the system. A higher order sliding mode controller with a super-twisting feature is proposed as a robust controller for the load-side converter operation to regulate the reactive power balance and improve the voltage response of the system. The asymptotic stability of the applied control scheme is guaranteed using the Lyapunov stability analysis. MATLAB-based computer simulation studies are conducted to show the efficacy of the proposed control structure while considering the disturbances in load, wind power, and parameter uncertainties.
Tribological and mechanical properties of cellulose/PMMA composite
Authors: Shi Shih‐Chen , Lin Chi-Feng , Liu Chi-Fan , Chen Tao-Hsing
Published: November 2022

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) extracted from rice stalks were added to poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) with weight ratios of 0.1–1.0 wt%. The tribological and mechanical properties of the resulting composite materials were evaluated and compared. The addition of CNCs and CNFs reduced the wear volume by around 72–90% compared to pure PMMA samples in ball-on-disk wear tests performed against a chrome steel ball counter body. The CNC and CNF reinforcements also effectively improved flow stress under static and dynamic deformation conditions. Furthermore, the flow stress enhancement increased with an increasing CNC/CNF addition for both composite materials. For a constant strain and strain rate, the maximum enhancement effect was observed in the samples reinforced with CNFs. Overall, the CNF/PMMA showed a better tribological and mechanical performance than the CNC/PMMA. In addition, the CNFs had a longer length and higher aspect ratio than CNCs, which led to a more effective mechanical entanglement effect with the PMMA matrix. This physical entanglement improved the structural integrity of the composites. The CNC reinforcement (CNC percentage from 0% to 1.0 wt.%) also enhanced an effective improvement of about 35%∼45% in yield stress and ultimate strength under dynamic deformation conditions and static deformation conditions. Furthermore, the CNF reinforcement (CNF percentage from 0% to 1 wt%) also enhanced an effective improvement of about double yield stress and ultimate strength under dynamic deformation conditions and static deformation conditions.
Challenges of Nation-Building: Uganda—A Case Study
Authors: Thomas Caroline
Published: November 2022

The success or failure of nation-building in the new states has far-reaching implications for domestic, regional and international stability and security. This is aptly illustrated in South Asia today, where differences of language, culture and religion forge great obstacles to the creation of single nation states in both India and Sri Lanka. However, of all the regions of the developing world, it is sub-Saharan Africa that perhaps presents the greatest challenge to the idea of a nation-state. Colonial boundaries cut through ethnic groups and led to the creation of post-colonial states that were in no sense nations. These states contained several nations (or tribes) or part of nations within them. Unity that had been forged to rid colonies of foreign rule collapsed when independence was won and tribal loyalties resurfaced. Some states, such as Tanzania, have fared better than others since then in their efforts to create domestic unity, harmony and a nation-state. Others, such as Uganda, have sunk into anarchy.

This paper looks at the example of Uganda in some detail. Particular attention is paid to the decade of the 1970's when Idi Amin was in power, and Uganda hit the international headlines on account of his reign of terror. Trends and events, both before and after Amin, are examined in an effort to establish whether the 1970's were an aberration or part of a continuing tradition of represssion in the name of state security. The Tanzanian action of intervening in Uganda, whatever the motive, had the effect of ridding Uganda of Amin. This action is analyzed in terms of its legitimacy and its consequences. The idea that nation-building is something which has to be generated from within, and cannot be imposed from without, is raised.
Foreign Policy of Saudi Arabia: Internal and External Contexts
Authors: Dietl Gulshan
Published: November 2022

The domestic capabilities and compulsions are the major inputs in a country's foreign policy. Regional and global circumstances influence these inputs and make them operational. Thus, the foreign policy of a country, at any given time, reflects the internal and regional contexts. This paper proposes to highlight the domestic dilemma, regional vulnerability and global alignments in Saudi foreign policy.
Chad: From Civil Strife to Big Power Rivalry
Authors: Olufemi Kola
Published: November 2022

Beginning from 1980 when Libyan tanks first rolled into Chad, international interest and involvement in its 18-year old civil war has been mounting. As the sputtering war erupted with renewed ferocity in summer 1983, the scope and intensity of external involvement became bewildering. France, the erstwhile gendarme of Francophone Africa and Chad's former (?) colonial master despatched hundreds of paratroopers with sophisticated weapons to N'Djamena.1 Apparently disturbed by what looked like an initial foot-dragging in Paris, the Reagan Administration, in a tough move directly committed the United States into the war. Apart from the offer of a $10m military aid package, it also sent its Redeye anti-aircraft missiles, F-15 fighters and two AWACS radar planes to back the forces of President Hissene Habre. As a corrolary, the United States aircraft carrier Eisenhower also steamed around the Mediterranean just off the coast of Libya.2

In its reaction, the Soviet Union described the American posturing as a “proof that NATO powers are openly interfering in Chad's sovereign affairs” while the Chinese Foreign Minister called on the local war lords to “prevent super power meddling and sabotage.”3

From these accounts therefore, what until recently, was a smouldering civil strife with international implications “has become a cosmopolitan war with local complications” and Chad, carrying the unenviable distinction of being the “poorest country of the poorest continent” has emerged as a potential hotbed of super power rivalry in the continent. The present developments have, in effect, confirmed the fears expressed in 1977 by Major Wadel Kamougue, then Chad's Foreign Minister, about the possibility of the country becoming a “strategic-region” that “could easily lead to big power rivalry.”4

In spite of the recent developments, the genesis, development and the external complications of the Chadian conflict remain obscure and unappreciated. What then, is the trouble with Chad? How and why did external forces get involved? What efforts have been made to resolve the conflicts and what are the implications of all these for the country. These are some of the issues discussed in this paper with a view to contributing to the greater awareness of the nature of the conflicts in Chad and the external interests and issues that have now come to overlay them.
Bhutan's Strategic Environment: Changing Perceptions
Authors: Kohli Manorama
Published: November 2022

For about a decade now one has been noticing some changes and shifts in the land-locked dragon kingdom of Bhutan's perceptions of its strategic neighbourhood—India and China. The two Asian giants situated in the south and north of Bhutan are so vital in geo-political terms that their attitudes towards this buffer state as also their relative capability distribution in the Himalayan region and in South Asia will always determine practically all foreign policy considerations of Bhutan. It need hardly be stressed that Bhutan is strategically important for both its big neighbours because of its location. This is the most compelling reason for both India and China to strive for special and friendly relationships with this Buddhist theocratic state. The tri-junction of the Chumbi Valley (Tibet), Sikkim (India) and Bhutan in the eastern Himalayas is of key importance for the security of the sprawling continental mass of India as well as that of China Being only about six miles from the Chumbi Valley, the passes in Bhutan. as also Nathu La are perceived by the Chinese as likely routes for invasion from the south. Evidently a very friendly, and if possible, a dependent Bhutan will give additional security to Tibet and hence to the Chinese mainland.1
Indian Ocean: An Area of Tension and Big Power Pressures
Authors: Kohli S.N.
Published: November 2022

The Indian Ocean has become an area of acute tension—a peril zone with conventional and nuclear naval vessels of the major powers staging a permanent presence in the area. Naval task forces, because of their inherent mobility, can constitute a powerful projection of military might. That is why the non-aligned countries of the Indian Ocean are exercised over the threat posed to their national security from the high seas. They can hardly forget that the powers that dominated and colonised them for centuries came to the area via the high seas. They also remember that, even in the decades since the Second World War there have been several glaring instances of naval might being used by the Big Powers to exert military pressure in almost every ocean. The concern expressed by nations who do not want a return to gun-boat diplomacy and domination by military forces is, therefore, indisputably legitimate.

Rivalry and competition are not new trends in international affairs or in the Indian Ocean. They were imported into this ocean by the colonial powers, when they sought to oust one another from enjoying the fruits of colonisation. Today, they exist in the Indian Ocean area for a variety of stated and unstated reasons.

When the 26th Session of the United Nations General Assembly adopted in 1971 a resolution proclaiming the Indian Ocean ‘a zone of peace for all times,’ people in many countries heaved a sigh of relief. Those countries whose merchant vessels plied the Indian Ocean hoped that a zone of peace would guarantee their security and enable them to develop economic contacts with different countries of the world. For champions of peace throughout the world demilitarisation of the Indian Ocean would mean elimination of one of the world's most dangerous hot-beds of tension. This however, did not happen. The safeguarding of vital interests of the Big Powers provided to them enough justification for an unprecedented escalation of military presence in the area.

There was a time when the ‘vacuum theory’ was universally peddled by the western powers and their mass-media. It postulated that the withdrawal of British naval power from the Indian Ocean would create a void which if not filled by the United States and its allies would invite Soviet presence. The non-aligned countries felt very strongly that if at all there was a vacuum, it should be filled by the littoral states, who alone would be responsible for the security of their waters. Though the vacuum theory is seldom mentioned now, the quantum of the Big Power naval forces in the Indian Ocean has steadily increased.
Family Firm Value in the Acquisition Context: A Signaling Theory Perspective
Authors: Tao-Schuchardt Martin , Riar Frederik J. , Kammerlander Nadine
Published: November 2022

Drawing on signaling theory, we explore the signaling effect of family firm status on firm value in the acquisition context as well as important contingencies influencing the signal’s effectiveness. Based on a sample of 486 observations of acquisitions in France, Germany, Italy, and Spain from 2011 to 2019, our empirical results suggest that acquirers purchase family firms at a higher firm value than non-family firms. This relationship is moderated by the target firm’s financial performance (i.e., high vs. low) and listing status (i.e., private vs. public) prior to an acquisition, as well as the type of acquirer (i.e., financial vs. non-financial) and the acquirer’s geographic location (i.e., cross-border vs. domestic). Our study’s findings suggest that family firm value is driven not only by the characteristics of the family firms that become acquired but also by the characteristics of the acquirers as they influence the effectiveness of the family firm signal.
Exploring the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Healthy Pregnant Women Towards Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Nigeria
Authors: Offomiyor Feyisayo Adeola , Rehal Satwinder
Published: November 2022

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a major public health issue and a threat to the well-being of a mother and her offspring. As a growing concern in sub-Saharan Africa, this paper explores the knowledge, attitude, and practices of healthy expectant mothers towards GDM, and the content of GDM information delivered by prenatal nurses during Antenatal Clinic (ANC) in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. Semi-structured telephone interviews were employed with 22 participants comprising 20 pregnant women and 2 antenatal nurses. The results reveal that majority of the pregnant women were unaware of GDM as a particular health condition during pregnancy that poses a risk to both maternal and infant health and could lead to a long-term risk of developing the chronic condition of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). This low level of awareness was attributed to a lack of adequate information during prenatal clinic sessions. The findings from this study emphasize the need to enhance the quality of public health education offered to pregnant women during pre and antenatal clinical services emphasizing GDM as part of the overall global agenda on promoting maternal and infant health.
The Effect of a Physical Activity Program Using WhatsApp on Adolescents’ Exercise Behavior
Authors: Ceylan Fatma , Erol Saime
Published: November 2022

This study aims to demonstrate the effect of a transtheoretical model (TTM)-based physical activity program on the exercise behavior of adolescents using WhatsApp. The study was conducted with high school students ( N = 185) in a pre-/posttest, quasi-experimental design. TTM-based text messages were sent to the intervention group ( n = 95) over WhatsApp every day for 8 weeks. The intervention group demonstrated more statistically significant progression in the exercising stages of change compared to the control group ( n = 90) (χ2 = 20.10; p = .00). It was also found that this group had a higher exercising self-efficacy score ( t = 2.647; p = .009) and a higher physical activity total metabolic equivalent of task score ( Z = −3.521; p = .000). There was no significant difference in BMI and perception of pros and cons ( p > .05). The program was found to be effective in terms of recording progress in the exercising stages of change, increasing exercising self-efficacy, and maintaining a physical activity program.
A Description of Suspected Concussions in Football-Related Activities among K-12 Students in Utah
Authors: Waltzman Dana , Sarmiento Kelly , Ferrell Deanna , Kern Vanonda , Roghaar Chloe
Published: November 2022

The circumstances and nature of concussions among youth who play tackle, flag, or touch football are not well understood. This study used data from Utah's Student Injury Reporting System (SIRS) to explore suspected concussions among K-12 students sustained during participation in football-related activities (tackle, flag, or touch football). Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses showed that 54.7% of suspected concussions due to football-related activity were among elementary and middle school and 41.3% were among high school students. Most suspected concussions resulted from being struck by or against something (81.9%) and occurred during school-sanctioned games and practices (37.9%), lunch, lunch recess, and recess (34.8%), or physical education class (22.7%). The type of school activity and context for suspected concussions varied by school level. School nurses and others in Utah may use study findings to customize concussion prevention efforts by school level and activity.