bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of social support-based interventions in preventing depression in people without clinical depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Campos-Paíno Henar , Moreno-Peral Patricia , Gómez-Gómez Irene , Conejo-Cerón Sonia , Galán Santiago , Reyes-Martín Sara , Bellón Juan Ángel
Published: November 2022

Background:

The evidence available on the association between social support and prevention of depression has been basically obtained from observational studies.

Aim:

We evaluated the effectiveness of social support-based interventions for the prevention of depression in people without clinical depression.

Methods:

Systematic review and meta-analysis (SR/MA) of randomized controlled trials (RCT), which were searched for in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, WOS, PsycINFO, OpenGrey and other sources from the inception dates to June 8, 2022. We selected RCTs that assessed the effectiveness of social support-based interventions as compared to controls, included subjects without baseline clinical depression, and measured as results a reduction in depressive symptoms and/or the incidence of new cases of depression. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated from random effects models.

Results:

Nine RCTs involving 927 patients from North America, Asia and Europe were included. The pooled SMD was −0.43 [95% confidence interval (CI) −0.82 to −0.04; p = .031]. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of results. Heterogeneity was substantial [ I2 = 80% (95% CI: 64% to 89%)]. A meta-regression model that included usual care as comparator and the continent (Europe), explained 53% of heterogeneity. Eight RCTs had a moderate overall risk of bias and one had a high risk of bias. Follow-up was ⩾1 year in only three RCTs. There was no statistical evidence of publication bias. The quality of evidence, as measured on GRADE guidelines, was low.

Conclusion:

Social support-based interventions had a small preventive effect on depression. Longer RCTs with a low risk of bias are necessary.
Perception of Coronavirus in Children Through the Interpretation of Metaphors
Authors: Ayyıldız Tülay Kuzlu , Akkoç Betül , Kurt Aylin
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to determine the perception of coronavirus in children between the ages of 7-18 through the interpretation of metaphors. This qualitative study was conducted with a total of 34 children between the ages of 7-18 years The metaphors obtained from the content analysis were categorized into two main themes and sub-themes. The main themes were categorized as barrier at COVID-19 and fear at coronavirus as fear. The most striking metaphors in the study, such as death, deadly, disease, scary, germ, snake venom, black hole, darkness, gun, lead, were the metaphors in the “Deadly” category, which were revealed by children. In unexpected situations, it is beneficial for parents and health care professionals to establish clear, open, and reassuring communication with their children.
Risky Justice of the Law: The Impact of Risk-Assessment Tools on Aboriginal Offenders’ Overrepresentation in Canada's Federal Prisons
Authors: Barmaki Reza
Published: November 2022

Official narratives have often blamed the Aboriginal peoples of Canada for their over-representation in Canada's federal prisons. This article argues that the problem is partially due to the problematic design and application of risk-assessment tools that have produced dubious results for Aboriginal offenders. This, in turn, has resulted in a vicious circle, beginning with labeling Aboriginal offenders as high-security risk offenders, followed by the lowering of their chances of getting paroled, and ending in their long-term stays in federal prisons. This last stage, in turn, becomes justification for the other two. And so continues the circle.
Wellbeing and Problematic Smartphone Use: Serial Mediation of Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
Authors: Uniyal Ritika , Shahnawaz* Mohammad Ghazi
Published: November 2022

The relationship between wellbeing and Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) has been explored in the past, however, the role of the potential mediators of this association is a relatively neglected area of research. Therefore, the current study examined mindfulness and self-compassion as mediators of the relationship between wellbeing and PSU in 220 university students. WHO-5 Wellbeing Index, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale- State, Self-Compassion Scale- Short form and Smartphone Addiction Scale- Short version were used for assessing wellbeing, mindfulness, self-compassion, and PSU respectively. Wellbeing had a direct and indirect effect on PSU. In addition, results supported a serial mediation model where wellbeing was found to influence PSU via mindfulness and self-compassion in a sequential manner. The results expanded the Compensatory Internet Use Theory (CIUT) to understand PSU and have implications for the management of PSU.
Celebration Beyond (Un-)Belief: The Potential of Negative Hermeneutics for a Liturgical Apophaticism
Authors: Wolff Edda
Published: November 2022

This essay demonstrates how the engagement with specific liturgical traditions and the ambiguity of their celebration allows for an understanding of liturgy beyond the dichotomy of belief and unbelief. It analyses the potential of a “negative hermeneutics” of liturgical studies in the context of what is perceived as “cultural unbelief.” Taking Lieven Boeve's concept of a “cultural apophaticism” as a basis, it explores the reach of a negative hermeneutical approach, highlighting the paradoxical and apophatic character of the liturgical celebration and its necessary failure and developing the idea of a “liturgical apophaticism.” It shows how the liturgical celebration does not simply counteract the dynamic of unbelief but exceeds it. In a final step, this essay explores the potential that liturgy has to recreate and transform “unbelief” and the implications of negative aspects of faith and belief for the broader theological discourse.
Systematic investigation and evaluation of modified ring yarns by feeding three-roving strands
Authors: Ling Yali , Henson Claire , West Andre , Yin Rong
Published: November 2022

Spinning is one of the major steps in textiles to convert staple fibers from either natural or synthetic sources into continuous and twisted yarns, and ring spinning has always been the dominant yarn technology since its invention. Recently, many ring-based modifications have been developed to improve yarn productivity and properties. In this work, a modified ring spinning technique has been developed by feeding three-roving strands into a conventional ring frame for producing yarns with better performance. A strand delivery guide with different spacings (1–5 mm) was used for the production of three-strand yarns. The quantitative relationships between the spinning parameters and yarn properties have been systematically investigated. The properties of the modified yarns were evaluated, including yarn tensile properties, evenness, and hairiness, and the statistical relationships were obtained by least squares polynomial fitting. The experimental results indicate that the guide spacing and twist multiplier significantly influence the yarn properties. The spinning triangle of the modified yarns resembles Solospun yarns, suggesting supreme yarn abrasion performance.
Simulation and experimental study of Taylor cone and jet evolution process parameters in electrohydrodynamics
Authors: Liu Kai , Zheng Yuansheng , Newton Md All Amin , Ge Cheng , Xin Binjie , Xu Yuanyuan
Published: November 2022

In melt electrospinning, accurate control of jet evolution and Taylor cone process parameters helps to control the final fiber properties. High-speed photography was employed to observe the jet's formation process and the Taylor cone's morphology. A multi-physics model of nonisothermal heat transfer was used to predict the fluid flow direction and velocity change. In addition, we investigated the relationships between the process parameters of the Taylor cone and the diameter of melt electrospun fiber. The results show an excellent linear relationship between the process parameters (cone angle, curvature, and Taylor cone height) and fiber diameter. According to the simulation results, the axial fluid flow keeps the maximum and accelerates continuously until the collector captures it. In addition, with the increase of voltage, the fiber strength is lower, and the crystallinity is improved. This work analyzes diameter and process parameters and offers a fresh perspective on electrostatic-fluid interaction and a method to forecast fiber diameter.
Prototyping the Cultural Proficiency Continuum Dialogic Protocol with Professional Development School Teacher Interns
Authors: Cormier Dwayne Ray
Published: November 2022

This article presents findings from an education design research program to advance the development of the Cultural Proficiency Continuum Dialogic Protocol (CPCDP). The CPCDP is a primary data source that uses andragogical and asset-based pedagogies and approaches to assess and codify educators’ cultural competence systematically. Findings demonstrated the CPCDP's effectiveness in assessing and codifying preservice teachers’ cultural competence specific to PreK-12 urban schools and majority-minority student populations. Also, findings demonstrated that the development of pre-service teachers’ cultural competence is implicated by teacher educators’ and leaders’ levels of cultural competence.
Natural Gas Accumulation and exploration potential of permian Volcanic Rocks in Southwest Sichuan Basin
Authors: Benjian Zhang , Wei Wang , Ran Liu , Ya Li , Xiaoliang Bai , Siqiao Peng , Ying Ming , Like Zhao , Sisi Deng , Jiayi Zhong , Yangui Chen
Published: November 2022

To figure out gas enrichment laws in Permian volcanic rocks, Sichuan Basin, an association among reservoir-forming elements was explored to analyze forming modes and point out exploration prospects in accordance with reservoir characteristics, gas source conditions, and fault elongation in Zhougongshan and Jianyang areas. Results show that there mostly exist porous volcaniclastic rock and lava reservoirs of explosive facies. In Jianyang with Lower Cambrian Qiongzhusi Formation as the principal source rock, early faults offered pathways to assemble ample initial oil and gas. Following an increase of burial depth, oil started cracking vastly to create oil-cracked gas. These elements constitute one reservoir-forming mode of Cambrian hydrocarbon supply–fault transporting–in-situ cracking in Jianyang. While in Zhougongshan with Lower Permian Maokou 1 Member as the main source, active faults during hydrocarbon generation and expulsion acted on trap preservation. Late kerogen-cracked gas gathered at structural highs far from giant faults. Thus, the other mode exhibited in Zhougongshan is Permian hydrocarbon supply–fault adjustment–effective trap accumulation. Reservoir-forming conditions in volcanic rocks present certain disparity among all kinds of tectonic settings inside the basin, giving rise to various volcanic gas reservoirs developed. The Permian volcanic rocks are expected to be a major domain for reserve and production increase in Sichuan Basin.
The Perverse Consequence of Firms’ Negative Publicity in Stigmatized Industries: CEOs' Board Appointments
Authors: Sadri Mohamad , Moschieri Caterina
Published: November 2022

This study examines whether and when, in a stigmatized industry, firms’ negative publicity can lead to the appointment of their CEOs to the boards of directors of other firms within that sector. Building on research on ingroup identification and on stigma, we propose that within a stigmatized industry, when a firm receives negative publicity, its CEO is more likely to join the board of other firms in the industry, possibly because these other firms interpret the negative publicity as a sign of the social identification of the CEO with the stigmatized industry. We also suggest that this relationship is more likely when the negative publicity reveals information otherwise not available about the CEO. We test our hypotheses using a novel, hand-collected dataset of 408 CEOs in 205 firms in the global arms industry, between 1998 and 2017, and find that within this stigmatized industry, when a firm receives negative publicity, its CEO is more likely to join the board of other firms in the industry, and that lower levels of CEOs’ reputational capital and visibility magnify this effect. Our findings advance the conversations in stigma research about upper echelons, highlighting the importance of internal and external actors and of the type of stigma, when investigating the consequences of stigma for upper echelons’ careers.
Aortic tissue pathology in reoperative post-dissection repair following prior use of BioGlue
Authors: Pacini Davide , Murana Giacomo , Di Marco Luca , Costantino Antonino , Votano Daniela , Ray Gregory
Published: November 2022

Aim

The benefits of BioGlue as a surgical adjunct in aortic procedures have been demonstrated in several studies, but limited information is available regarding the associated histopathological findings of aortic tissue at the time of reoperation. The objective of this study was to assess, at reoperation, the histopathological characteristics of aortic tissue which has had BioGlue applied during a previous surgery.

Methods

This prospective, single-center, single-arm study enrolled patients who were undergoing aortic reoperation and who had BioGlue used during previous aortic surgery. Histopathological assessment of aortic specimens obtained intraoperatively was performed on tissue that would have been removed independent of subject participation in the study.

Results

A total of 11 patients were enrolled and based on gross assessment, excessive amounts of BioGlue had been applied during the initial surgery in 36.4% of cases. The samples with the greatest amount of residual BioGlue demonstrated moderate to marked inflammatory responses, while the remaining samples demonstrated minimal to moderate inflammatory responses. Calcification of residual BioGlue was noted in 4 cases. Substantial medial degeneration was associated with suture line dehiscence in 4 cases, some of which had a large quantity of residual BioGlue. No evidence of suture degradation was observed.

Conclusions

Cases with surgical anastomosis dehiscence were associated with substantial medial degeneration. While no histologic findings directly linked BioGlue to these degenerative changes, a contributory role cannot be excluded. Following the manufacturer's instructions for appropriate application of BioGlue is crucial to prevent potential complications.
Tradeoffs, Constraints, and Strategies in Transgender and Nonbinary Young Adults’ Romantic Relationships: The Identity Needs in Relationships Framework
Authors: Murchison Gabriel R. , Eiduson Rose , Agénor Madina , Gordon Allegra R.
Published: November 2022

Prior research suggests that prejudice and structural disadvantage (e.g., cissexism, racism, sexism) put transgender and nonbinary (TNB) young adults at risk for adverse romantic relationship experiences, yet supportive romantic relationships may help TNB young adults cope with these stressors and promote their psychological wellbeing. Accordingly, there is a need to better understand how TNB young adults navigate romantic relationships in the context of prejudice and structural disadvantage. To address this topic, we analyzed in-depth interviews with TNB young adults (18–30 years; N = 30) using template-style thematic analysis, guided by intersectionality as an analytical framework. Our analysis resulted in three themes. Theme 1 describes how prejudice and structural disadvantage constrained the strategies that TNB young adults used to pursue fulfilling romantic relationships (e.g., leaving adverse relationships). Theme 2 addresses the tradeoffs that some participants faced in their romantic relationships, including tradeoffs between psychological needs related to their social identities (e.g., gender identity affirmation) and general psychological needs (e.g., intimacy). Theme 3 highlights individual and contextual factors (e.g., lessons from prior romantic relationships) that helped participants build fulfilling romantic relationship. These themes form the basis for the Identity Needs in Relationships Framework, a new conceptual framework addressing how TNB young adults navigate romantic relationships in the context of prejudice and structural disadvantage. The framework offers an explanation for why some TNB young adults maintain romantic relationships that seem to undermine their wellbeing, and it draws attention to strategies and resources that may help TNB young adults form fulfilling romantic relationships despite the prejudice and structural disadvantage they face.
Kinetic evaluation and assessment of longitudinal changes in reference region and extracerebral [18F]MK-6240 PET uptake
Authors: Fu Jessie Fanglu , Lois Cristina , Sanchez Justin , Becker J Alex , Rubinstein Zoe B , Thibault Emma , Salvatore Andrew N , Sari Hasan , Farrell Michelle E , Guehl Nicolas J , Normandin Marc D , Fakhri Georges El , Johnson Keith A , Price Julie C
Published: November 2022

[18F]MK-6240 meningeal/extracerebral off-target binding may impact tau quantification. We examined the kinetics and longitudinal changes of extracerebral and reference regions. [18F]MK-6240 PET was performed in 24 cognitively-normal and eight cognitively-impaired subjects, with arterial samples in 13 subjects. Follow-up scans at 6.1 ± 0.5 (n = 25) and 13.3 ± 0.9 (n = 16) months were acquired. Extracerebral and reference region (cerebellar gray matter (CerGM)-based, cerebral white matter (WM), pons) uptake were evaluated using standardized uptake values (SUV90-110), spectral analysis, and distribution volume. Longitudinal changes in SUV90-110 were examined. The impact of reference region on target region outcomes, partial volume correction (PVC) and regional erosion were evaluated. Eroded WM and pons showed lower variability, lower extracerebral contamination, and lower longitudinal changes than CerGM-based regions. CerGM-based regions resulted larger cross-sectional effect sizes for group differentiation. Extracerebral signal was high in 50% of subjects and exhibited irreversible kinetics and nonsignificant longitudinal changes over one-year but was highly variable at subject-level. PVC resulted in higher variability in reference region uptake and longitudinal changes. Our results suggest that eroded CerGM may be preferred for cross-sectional, whilst eroded WM or pons may be preferred for longitudinal [18F]MK-6240 studies. For CerGM, erosion was necessary (preferred over PVC) to address the heterogenous nature of extracerebral signal.
Leukocyte indicators and variations predict worse outcomes after intravenous thrombolysis in patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Xie Jiali , Pang Chunyang , Yu Huan , Zhang Wanli , Ren Chuancheng , Deng Binbin
Published: November 2022

Leukocytes are systematic inflammation indicators related to stroke prognosis and can exhibit large dynamic waves before and after recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-tPA) therapy. However, additional evidence is needed to determine the prognostic significance of various leukocytes including both static and dynamic data among patients who underwent r-tPA therapy. A total of 251 patients treated with r-tPA were included; their leukocyte data were collected at two time points, and patients were followed up for three months. Analysis revealed the following findings. (i) Patients with hemorrhagic transformation (HT) and unfavorable outcomes had a higher level of leukocytes after r-tPA therapy (leukocyte count (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.191 for HT and 1.184 for unfavorable outcomes), neutrophil count (aOR 1.215 and 1.214), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; aOR 1.084 and 1.091)) and larger dynamic leukocyte changes. (ii)Among all leukocytes, the NLR after r-tPA administration demonstrated the strongest correlation with HT and unfavorable outcomes. (iii) Patients with an NLR ≥ 3.322 had a 3.492-fold increased risk for HT, and those with an NLR ≥ 5.511 had a 3.024-fold increased risk for functional outcomes. Overall, this study shows that leukocytes, especially leukocyte count, neutrophil count and the NLR, are independently associated with HT and functional outcomes in stroke patients.
Superannuation fees, asset allocation and fund performance
Authors: Ainsworth Andrew , Akhtar Shumi , Corbett Adam , Lee Adrian , Walter Terry
Published: November 2022

Superannuation fees have come under public scrutiny in recent years with the belief they are too high. We examine the determinants of fees and their relationship with fund performance. Superannuation funds with higher investment fees have higher allocations to asset classes that trade in more complex markets. For-profit retail funds charge both higher investment and administration fees than other funds. Funds with higher investment fees do not generate higher returns than the least expensive funds. These findings suggest that superannuation members may not earn higher after-fee risk-adjusted returns by holding funds with higher fees.

JEL Classification:

G11
One-layer macroscopic verus two-layer microscopic vasovasostomy: Our experience in two referral hospitals
Authors: Amjadi Mohsen , Jahantabi Elham , Nouri Hedayatolah , Nourizadeh Davoud , AsrBadr Yadollah Ahmadi , Salehi-Pourmehr Hanieh
Published: November 2022

Objective:

Vasovasostomy is the most common surgery to restore the fertility of vasectomized men. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of one-layer macroscopic VV (MOLVV) or two-layer microscopic VV (TLMVV)

Methods:

This study was performed on the medical records of 100 patients who underwent VV surgery in two tertiary hospitals from 2014 to 2017. All patient information, including demographic and sperm analysis, was collected. The chi-square test, independent t-test, and survival analysis using Kaplan–Meyer test and Cox regression were performed to analyze the data using SPSS software version 25, and the significance level was considered 0.05.

Results:

The fertility rate in patients of both groups was 15%. The findings showed a statistically significant difference between the mean percentage of normal sperm morphology according to the type of surgery ( p = 0.045). There was no statistically significant difference between the mean sperm count, sperm motility percentage, and mean hospital costs according to the type of surgical procedure ( p > 0.05). The incidence of spouse pregnancy in the TLMVV method after 15 and 24 months was 87.5% and 58.3%, respectively. In patients with unilateral anastomosis, the incidence of pregnancy at 13 and 15 months after surgery was 98.7% and 95.8%, respectively. The mean and median time of pregnancy in the spouses of patients with each surgical shower were 24 and 25 months. Other variables had no significant effect on spouse pregnancy.

Conclusion:

Vasovasostomy with the one and two-layer methods had equal results. The number, movement, and normal morphology of sperm after surgery were low. Therefore, these people will need assisted reproductive techniques.
Investigation of reactions occurring in waste combustion ash using thermal analysis coupled with gas analysis and characterization
Authors: Moutushi Tasnuva , Castaldi Marco J.
Published: November 2022

Waste-to-energy (WtE) ash was investigated for thermal reactions that generate gas components such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide. An evolved gas detection method coupled with thermal gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry provided insight into the possible reactions occurring in WtE ash at temperatures ranging from 90°C to 600°C in an inert environment. The combined analysis shows that H2 is produced from WtE ash at temperatures ~298°C and is detected until ~480°C. CO2 appears in the evolved gas starting at 290°C and continues to increase as the temperature is increased. The results reveal that the processes releasing H2 and the CO2 are independent of each other, and the CO2 generation depends on the constant input of energy. These results enable the identification of the possible processes occurring in WtE ash decomposition of Friedel’s salt at 280°C and dehydration of Ca(OH)2 at 410°C, both of which release H2O that reacts with the aluminium present to release H2. At temperatures higher than 480°C, an alumina layer is formed preventing further production of H2. X-ray diffraction analysis done on the WtE ash verifies the presence of chemical phases that support the proposed reactions. The outcome of this study enables identifying the possible reactions in WtE ash that can be causing the energy changes seen during disposal, storage and transportation of ash. These results can give direction for detailed understanding and development of the kinetics and the mechanisms of the reactions occurring in WtE ash which is important for optimization of reuse and disposal of ash.
Sex Inclusion in Transcriptome Studies of Daily Rhythms
Authors: Obodo Dora , Outland Elliot H. , Hughey Jacob J.
Published: November 2022

Biomedical research on mammals has traditionally neglected females, raising the concern that some scientific findings may generalize poorly to half the population. Although this lack of sex inclusion has been broadly documented, its extent within circadian genomics remains undescribed. To address this gap, we examined sex inclusion practices in a comprehensive collection of publicly available transcriptome studies on daily rhythms. Among 148 studies having samples from mammals in vivo, we found strong underrepresentation of females across organisms and tissues. Overall, only 23 of 123 studies in mice, 0 of 10 studies in rats, and 9 of 15 studies in humans included samples from females. In addition, studies having samples from both sexes tended to have more samples from males than from females. These trends appear to have changed little over time, including since 2016, when the US National Institutes of Health began requiring investigators to consider sex as a biological variable. Our findings highlight an opportunity to dramatically improve representation of females in circadian research and to explore sex differences in daily rhythms at the genome level.
Personal digital technology use among practicing Registered Nurses and Registered Practical Nurses
Authors: Donelle Lorie , Hiebert Brad , Hall Jodi , Ledoux Kathleen , Ashfield Sarah
Published: November 2022

Many clinicians are using their personal digital devices (such as smartphones) while at work for personal and professional purposes. The purpose of this research was to understand how Ontario nurses used their own digital devices within the workplace. Reported here are the findings from the on-line questionnaire of a mixed methods design. Participants (N = 169) had a mean age of 41 years, were mostly female, and with an average of 15.2 years of nursing experience. Most (73%) used their own device within the workplace for pragmatic reasons (telling time), patient care (accessing information, drug management, and administration), and communication among the healthcare team. This research offers emerging insight into how personally owned devices are being integrated into healthcare practices and highlighted tensions among workplace efficiency and enhanced team communication. This research supports the development of guidelines for personal device use within healthcare settings.
Regulating for-profit virtual care in Canada: Implications for medical profession regulators and policy-makers
Authors: Adams Tracey L. , Leslie Kathleen
Published: November 2022

For-profit virtual medical care has been expanding rapidly in Canada, creating new societal and practical challenges requiring policy and regulatory reform. We mapped the current state of regulatory policy across 10 Canadian provinces by analyzing practice standards and guidelines for virtual care from medical profession regulators. Through a comparative framework, we assessed the extent to which virtual practice policies addressed issues around mobility and licensure, equitable access, privacy, complaints, and continuity of care. We also compared these regulatory documents to the model standards from the Canadian medical regulatory consortium and considered implications for practicing in for-profit virtual environments. We found considerable variation across provincial regulatory bodies, with most existing frameworks not adequately addressing equity, access, and practitioner competency and not providing flexible, nuanced, or risk-based approaches to virtual care provision. As we compared jurisdictions, we identified gaps and leading practices to inform recommendations for professional regulators and policy-makers.
Quantitative Assessment of Computed Tomography Energy Use and Cost Savings Through Overnight and Weekend Power Down in a Radiology Department
Authors: Brown Maura , Snelling Eric , De Alba Moises , Ebrahimi Ghazal , Forster Bruce B.
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To assess energy and cost savings when a CT scanner is powered down during overnight non-operational times compared with the CT scanner left on full power or partial shutdown mode. Materials and Methods: Temporary portable power data loggers were placed on the power supply to the CT scanner to measure the energy consumption of the CT scanner in 3 power modes over 9 weeks: system ON (computer on, gantry on), computer ON (computer on/gantry off), and system shutdown (computer off/gantry off). Energy was separated into daily average consumption during normal operating hours and consumption after hours for three different day types: weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays/Holidays. To estimate savings, the average after hours energy use per day during the system ON was compared to each of the two power saving modes. 95% confidence intervals were calculated for each mode and savings result. Results: Overnight and Sunday system shutdown compared to system ON mode is shown to save approximately 14 000 kWh over one year with a 95% confidence interval of (13 899 kWh, 14 464 kWh) as calculated by the electricity provider. Conclusion: Energy consumed by a CT scanner can be significantly reduced through system shutdown when the unit is non-operational, saving emissions and cost. In addition to cost and energy savings, this study emphasizes the importance of clinician leadership in convening interdisciplinary teams outside of usual healthcare silos to rethink how we purposefully use energy and reduce waste.
Blood Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Neurodegenerative Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Santos Filipa , Cabreira Verónica , Rocha Sara , Massano João
Published: November 2022

Importance

Accurately diagnosing neurodegenerative dementia is often challenging due to overlapping clinical features. Disease specific biomarkers could enhance diagnostic accuracy. However, CSF analysis procedures and advanced imaging modalities are either invasive or high-priced, and routinely unavailable. Easily accessible disease biomarkers would be of utmost value for accurate differential diagnosis of dementia subtypes.

Objective

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of blood-based biomarkers for the differential diagnosis of AD from Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD), or AD from Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB).

Methods

Systematic review. Three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched. Studies assessing blood-based biomarkers levels in AD versus FTLD, or AD versus DLB, and its diagnostic accuracy, were selected. When the same biomarker was assessed in three or more studies, a meta-analysis was performed. QUADAS-2 criteria were used for quality assessment.

Results

Twenty studies were included in this analysis. Collectively, 905 AD patients were compared to 1262 FTLD patients, and 209 AD patients were compared to 246 DLB patients. Regarding biomarkers for AD versus FTLD, excellent discriminative accuracy (AUC >0.9) was found for p-tau181, p-tau217, synaptophysin, synaptopodin, GAP43 and calmodulin. Other biomarkers also demonstrated good accuracy (AUC = 0.8-0.9). For AD versus DLB distinction, only miR-21-5p and miR-451a achieved excellent accuracy (AUC >0.9).

Conclusion

Encouraging results were found for several biomarkers, alone or in combination. Prospective longitudinal designs and consensual protocols, comprising larger cohorts and homogeneous testing modalities across centres, are essential to validate the clinical value of blood biomarkers for the precise etiological diagnosis of dementia.
The influence of distributed leadership style on educational crisis management (the case of TPLF war) in government secondary schools of Bahir Dar City Administration, Ethiopia
Authors: Alene Abebaw Ayana
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of distributed leadership style on crisis management in Secondary Schools of Bahir Dar City Administration. A correlation research design with a quantitative method was employed. Data was collected from 242 randomly selected teachers using a questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (One-Sample t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and regressions). From the results of the study, it was found that the practice of educational crisis management was significantly low. All distributed leadership dimensions had positive correlations with crisis management significantly. Distributed leadership style contributed to 38.3% of crisis management; individually, leadership team cooperation had a strong prediction power ( β = .233) followed by the participative decision-making dimension ( β = .232). Generally, the practice of crisis management was low and leadership team cooperation and participative decision-making dimensions were found to be the best predictors of crisis management.
Studying the influence of friction stir welding parameters on the mechanical properties of PP/EPDM/Clay nanocomposites by response surface methodology combined with desirability function approach
Authors: Rezaei Gholamreza , Mostafa Arab Nasrollah Bani , Ayaz Mohsen
Published: November 2022

The main objective of the present study is to investigate the influence of friction stir welding (FSW) parameters using a novel tool on the mechanical properties of polypropylene-ethylene-propylene diene monomer/clay (PP/EPDM/Clay) nanocomposite. The response surface method of design of experiments in combination with the desirability function approach is applied to quantify the effects of clay content, tool rotational speed, welding speed, and tool shoulder temperature on tensile strength and elongation of welded joints. It was observed that the tool rotational speed had the maximum effect on the tensile strength, while the greatest influence on the elongation was due to the tool shoulder temperature. The addition of clay nanoparticles up to 6 wt% into the PP matrix reduced the tensile strength and elongation of the weld by about 38% and 20%, respectively. Moreover, an improvement of about 45% was observed in the tensile strength when the rotational speed increased from 800 to 1600 r/min, while the tensile strength deteriorated by about 29% when the linear speed increased from 10 to 20 mm/s. A rise in shoulder temperature from 50 to 100°C was also accompanied by an enhancement in the tensile strength and elongation by 20 and 50%, respectively. Nevertheless, the desired operating conditions were found to be 0.85 wt% for clay, 1390 r/min for the tool rotational speed, 10 mm/min for the welding speed, and 100°C for the tool shoulder temperature. The fracture morphologies obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were in good agreement with corresponding tensile strength and elongation results.
Effect of packing pressure on stagnation weld-line strength for thermoplastic semicrystalline glass fiber reinforced material
Authors: Jadhav Ganesh , Gaval Vivek , Divekar Mahesh , Darade Nandkishor
Published: November 2022

Weld-Line in an injection molded part develops when two or more melt fronts are converged together. The weld-line is unavoidable when the design is complex where two melt flow fronts are mating each other head-to-head, this mating area is mechanically weak compared to other portions of the modeled part. The decrease in strength in the weld-line area can be attributed to several factors like molecular diffusion, fiber orientation effect, unoptimized process conditions, surface tension effect, internal residual stresses, etc. The strength of the weld-line area can be increased by optimizing injection molding process parameters like melt temperature, injection speed, packing pressure, changing gate type and location, etc. The present work focuses on studying the effect of packing pressure on strength of stagnation weld-line. This has been examined with experimental testing and scanning electron micrographs of the fractured surface on the weld-line and without weld-line specimens. The special injection mold is designed and fabricated to produce plaques having stagnation weld-line. The plaques are prepared out of 30% glass-filled Polyamide 6 material. The four sets of plaques are produced by changing the magnitude of packing pressure equal to 60% of filling pressure, with increment of 20% up to 120% of filling pressure. The tensile test specimens are machined on these plaques for two different angular orientations and testing is conducted as per ISO 527-2. The results demonstrated that, without weld-line specimens, the tensile modulus, stress at break marginally increases with an increase in packing pressure, and strain at break decreases with an increase in packing pressure. However, for specimens with stagnation weld-lines, both the tensile modulus and stress at break are observed to be 42% of without weld-lines samples for minimum packing pressure. The results obtained are evident from stress-strain graphs and scanning electron micrographs.
Interrogating Policy Diffusion in the Arts Education Sphere
Authors: Shaw Ryan D.
Published: November 2022

Defined as the tendency for structures and groups to “grow more alike, to develop similarities” policy convergence is a recognized factor in policy analysis across fields. In the arts education sphere, this can mean adopting similar curriculum standards, imitating an after-school arts program, or even borrowing a large-scale metropolitan arts education partnership model. I argue that policy diffusion helps to illuminate policy convergence in the arts education milieu. In this policy analysis essay, I first detail the conceptual underpinnings of policy diffusion. Next, I offer specific examples from arts education and attempt to show how they exemplify mechanisms of diffusion. I then argue that there are specific contexts/structures within arts education policymaking that facilitate diffusion, and I conclude with discussion based on the analysis.
Forming quality optimization and microstructure analysis of multilayer coatings with laser powder-fed additive manufacturing
Authors: Lv Ning , Yue Haitao , Guo Chenguang , Zhao Lijuan , Li Qiang , Zhang Jianzhuo , Zhang Yin
Published: November 2022

To clarify the parameters interaction effects and improve the forming quality of Fe-Cr alloy multilayer laser powder-fed additive manufacturing (LPF-AM) on AISI 4340 substrate, experimental research for Fe-Cr alloy multilayer LPF-AM was carried out via the response surface method (RSM). The interaction effects and evolution rules of laser energy density ( E), powder feed rate ( Q), and Z-axis increment ( h) on minimum cladding height, deposition efficiency and surface spheroidization defects were discussed. The multiobjective particle filter resampling particle swarm optimization (MORPSO) algorithm was adopted to optimize the processing parameters. The phase transformation, grain growth, and microhardness of multilayer LPF-AM were analyzed. The results showed that the powder feed rate and Z-axis increment were found to affect the minimum cladding height and deposition efficiency, respectively. Laser energy density played an essential role in spheroidization defects. The forming quality was significantly improved based on the optimal process parameters of E = 33 J/mm2, Q = 0.5 g/s, and h = 0.8 mm. The primary and secondary remelting zones are fine equiaxed dendrites and irregular cellular structures, respectively, and the microstructure of the cladding tracks and layers showed a good metallurgical bonding. The microhardness of the cladding layer ranged from 321 ± 18 to 625 ± 24 HV0.5, and the average microhardness is twice that of the AISI 4340 substrate.
Effect of Ta addition on the sinterability of spark plasma sintered W-Ni-Fe alloy
Authors: Muthuchamy A , Srikanth Muthe , Yadav Dig Vijay , Raja Annamalai A
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this research is to investigate and characterize the W-Ni-Fe-Ta compositions by solid-state sintering using the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique at a relatively lower temperature. The sinterability of W-Ni-Fe ternary tungsten heavy alloy (WHA) with the addition of Tantalum in predetermined compositions was sintered using SPS at 1100°C under 30 MPa pressure. The effect of Ta addition on WHA densification, microstructure, and mechanical properties was studied. Ni was found to act as an activator in the sintering of tungsten. SEM and energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed an even distribution of Ta in the W and Ni-Fe matrix. The data of hardness and ultimate tensile strength were explained using grain size, contiguity, and the formation of brittle intermetallic phases. W-7Ni-3Fe-5Ta alloy composition has the highest ultimate tensile strength of 870 MPa, 189.2 HV0.5kgf hardness, and 83.42% relative sintered density. During the tensile test, W grain cleavage fracture, W-W decohesion, matrix tearing, and W matrix intergranular types of fracture surface were observed.
HVAC multivariable system modelling and control
Authors: Touqan Basim , Abdul-Ameer Alaa , Salameh Muna
Published: November 2022

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) is a multivariable process where any alteration with one system input affects most or all of the system’s outputs simultaneously. Owing to its comprehensiveness, a readily derived multivariable HVAC mathematical model is selected for this work, mainly a hybrid distributed-lumped parameters model. As the transfer function matrix was not established in the selected HVAC model, it was exclusively developed in this study, using the time domain graphical responses of the chosen model. Based on the developed transfer function matrix, a conceptual two-step approach was followed to control HVAC model performance. The first was decoupling the interactions that affect all the system outputs, and the second was designing proper PID controllers for each decoupled loop similar to those used for single input single output (SISO) systems. A direct Nyquist Array (DNA) multivariable control strategy was used for this purpose and successfully decoupled the HVAC system into three separate (SISO) loops. Three PID controllers afterwards were applied for each decoupled loop. The results showed quite decoupled system outputs with a minor coupling percentage so that any change in a system input only affected the corresponding system output. The output responses are also underdamped with almost zero steady-state error confirming the effectiveness of the selected PID parameters. The values of steady-state responses are obtained in (10–15) s compared with (200–600) s of open-loop response time. However, various overshoot percentages in the responses are encountered but are relatively small, with a short settling time, so they don’t affect the thermal comfort of the ventilated volume. System stability using the Nyquist criterion has also been examined and found to satisfy the criterion. The multivariable DNA control technique and the SISO closed-loop PID controllers have shown the capability to suppress external disturbances and restore the system to its original functional steady-state values.
A unified representation and retrieval of 3D grain configuration based on signed distance field
Authors: Jingbo SUN , Zeping WU , Jiawei YANG , Wenjie WANG , Bo PENG , Donghui WANG , Weihua ZHANG , Hailong ZHAO
Published: November 2022

In this article, the design and development of a 3D grain configuration representation method with small data and high accuracy are presented, by which a unified grain database is established. There are two vital components in our proposed method: the traditional signed distance field (SDF) method is used for the unified representation of the 3D grain configuration; the proper generalized decomposition is employed to decompose the original SDF function to compress the data. With the proposed method, the reconstruction of 3D grain configuration is realized with small data and high accuracy, based on which the similarity measurement of different grains is proposed and the reuse of the 3D grain configurations is realized. The efficacy and accuracy of the proposed method are validated by reconstructing 3D grain configurations and the burnback curves of two different grain models. The similarities of the eight grains are calculated, which are accurately consistent with the burning surface area calculations results. The experiment results demonstrate that the proposed methods are feasible and efficient, and are significant for design case data and knowledge reuse.
Development, realization, and experimental validation of an active hybrid roof structure based on elastic kinetic and rigid-body transformation
Authors: Marker Paul , Jirasek Robert , Schmidt Therese , Bleicher Achim
Published: November 2022

Elastic kinetic structures are a recent approach to design transformable structures. Their transformation is based on elastic bending, that is compliant component behavior of structural members. This principle can be used to realize transformable structures with a stable deployment process. Regardless of a stable transformation, elastic kinetic structures are prone to static and dynamic loads due to their lightweight design. However, most of current research on these structures solely focuses on the principles of transformation. This paper proposes a concept for an active hybrid roof structure with a transformation based on elastic kinetics and rigid-body motion. The concept exhibits a stable structural deployment and active control components to counteract static and dynamic disturbances. Furthermore, this paper includes the realization and experimental evaluation of a mid-scale prototype structure.
Monitoring damage evolution with acoustic emission in two types of glass epoxy laminates
Authors: Roundi Walid , El Mahi Abderrahim , Rebiere Jean-Luc , El Gharad Abdellah
Published: November 2022

This study concerns the identification and monitoring by acoustic emission (AE) of the different damage mechanisms leading to the final rupture of glass/epoxy laminates. The series of specimens are subjected to static and fatigue loading in order to follow the progression of the various damage mechanisms over time and to identify the most critical ones leading to material failure. The specimens are made with two stacking sequences ([0/90]s and [90/0]s) using the vacuum infusion process. Several parameters such as the energy, the amplitude, the rise-time, the counts and the duration are used for the AE technique in order to identify the damage mechanisms evolutions to classify the collected events (AE). The damage mechanisms recorded in each stacking sequence are identified and characterized using a multi-parametric analysis. The damage accumulated in the test specimen is first of all transverse cracking, followed by interlaminar decohesion and finally fiber breakage leading to total composite failure.