bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Victimization Within and Beyond the Prison Walls: A Latent Profile Analysis of Transgender and Gender Diverse Adults
Authors: Hughto Jaclyn M. W. , Clark Kirsty A. , Daken Kirstie , Brömdal Annette , Mullens Amy B. , Sanders Tait , Phillips Tania , Mimiaga Matthew J. , Cahill Sean , du Plessis Carol , Gildersleeve Jessica , Halliwell Sherree D. , Reisner Sari L.
Published: February 2022

Background: Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people are disproportionately incarcerated in the United States relative to the general population. A dearth of quantitative research has explored victimization as a risk factor for incarceration as well as the victimization experiences of formerly incarcerated TGD populations. Methods: In 2019, 574 TGD adults completed an online survey assessing sociodemographics, victimization across settings, and incarceration history. Latent class analysis was used to identify two sets of latent subgroups based on respondent's victimization experiences: 1) lifetime victimization (low; moderate; and high) and 2) classes of victimization while incarcerated (low; moderate; and high). Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses examined sociodemographic, mental health, and lifetime victimization experiences associated with lifetime incarceration (Outcome 1). Among those with incarceration histories, bivariate hierarchical logistic regression analyses also explored the association between gender identity, race/ethnicity, HIV status, visual gender non-conformity, and class of victimization during incarceration (Outcome 2) . Results: Participants’ mean age was 31.4 ( SD = 11.2), 43.4% had a non-binary gender identity, 81.5% were White, non-Hispanic, 2.1% were living with HIV, and 13.2% had been incarcerated. In the multivariable model for Outcome 1, high levels of victimization, age, being a racial/ethnic minority, being a trans woman, living with HIV, and past-12-month polysubstance use were all associated with increased odds of lifetime incarceration ( p-values < 0.05). In the bivariate hierarchical logistic regression analyses for Outcome 2, living with HIV and having a visually gender non-conforming expression were significantly associated with elevated odds of experiencing high levels of victimization while incarcerated ( p-values < 0.05). Conclusion: Findings document the relationships between victimization and incarceration among TGD people as well as identify the subpopulations at greater risk for incarceration and experiencing victimization while incarcerated. Efforts are needed to prevent victimization across the life course, including while incarcerated and support TGD individuals in coping with the negative sequelae of victimization and incarceration experiences.
Technique failure in peritoneal dialysis: Modifiable causes and patient-specific risk factors
Authors: Bonenkamp Anna A , van Eck van der Sluijs Anita , Dekker Friedo W , Struijk Dirk G , de Fijter Carola WH , Vermeeren Yolande M , van Ittersum Frans J , Verhaar Marianne C , van Jaarsveld Brigit C , Abrahams Alferso C
Published: February 2022

Background:

Technique survival is a core outcome for peritoneal dialysis (PD), according to Standardized Outcomes in Nephrology-Peritoneal Dialysis. This study aimed to identify modifiable causes and risk factors of technique failure in a large Dutch cohort using standardised definitions.

Methods:

Patients who participated in the retrospective Dutch nOcturnal and hoME dialysis Study To Improve Clinical Outcomes cohort study and started PD between 2012 and 2016 were included and followed until 1 January 2017. The primary outcome was technique failure, defined as transfer to in-centre haemodialysis for ≥ 30 days or death. Death-censored technique failure was analysed as secondary outcome. Cox regression models and competing risk models were used to assess the association between potential risk factors and technique failure.

Results:

A total of 695 patients were included, of whom 318 experienced technique failure during follow-up. Technique failure rate in the first year was 29%, while the death-censored technique failure rate was 23%. Infections were the most common modifiable cause for technique failure, accounting for 20% of all causes during the entire follow-up. Leakage and catheter problems were important causes within the first 6 months of PD treatment (both accounting for 15%). APD use was associated with a lower risk of technique failure (hazard ratio 0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.53–0.83).

Conclusion:

Infections, leakage and catheter problems were important modifiable causes for technique failure. As the first-year death-censored technique failure rate remains high, future studies should focus on infection prevention and catheter access to improve technique survival.
Do policies affect management? Evidence from a survey of clinicians of the Italian National Health Service
Authors: Fattore Giovanni , Numerato Dino , Salvatore Domenico
Published: February 2022

Since the early 1990s, New Public Management ideas have deeply influenced reforms and their implementation in the Italian NHS. We compare doctors’ perceptions about management systems in two Italian regions which differ in the dominant values of the regional political environment. In total 220 doctors, orthopaedists and cardiologists, working in public hospitals in Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, were surveyed. Doctors in Emilia-Romagna perceived their organization to be more managerially driven in comparison to their colleagues in Lombardy. Doctors from Lombardy perceived their professional freedom to be higher, regardless of their specialization. The divergence of professionals’ perception between these two Italian regions, which operate within the same Beveridge model, shows that dominant values of regional politics may have tangible effects on hospital management.
New fluorinated polyimides based on 1,2-bis(4-aminophenyl)-4,5-bis(4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1H-imidazole
Authors: Chen Wen-Yue , Huang Zhi-Hui , Liu Xiao-Ling , Liu Yong-Jun , Zhao Jing-Wei , Sheng Shou-Ri
Published: February 2022

A new aromatic unsymmetrical diamine containing imidazolyl and trifluoromethyl groups, 1,2-bis(4-aminophenyl)-4,5-bis(4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1H-imidazole was synthesized. A series of novel fluorinated polyimides (PIs) were prepared by polycondensation of this diamine monomer with various aromatic dianhydrides via one-step process. The resulting PIs bearing inherent viscosities of 0.45–0.61 dL/g were amorphous and readily soluble in organic polar solvents such as NMP, DMF, DMAc, THF, and CHCl3. These new PIs exhibited good thermal stability with 10% weight loss temperatures of 530–560°C and char yields of 61–65% at 800°C in nitrogen, as well as good flame retardancy with limited oxygen index value of 40.6–42.8, and outstanding hydrophobicity with the contact angle of 85.2–93.5°. Meanwhile, all the obtained PIs exhibited low water uptake of 0.30–0.53%, strong UV-vis absorption in the range of 267–310 nm in DMF solution, and their films presented high optical transparency with a cut-off wavelength in the 355–392 nm range. Except for the PI film derived from pyromellitic dianhydride, the other PI films had the tensile strength in the range of 53.2–74.1 MPa, elongation at breakage of 6–15%, and tensile modulus of 1.0–1.5 GPa, respectively.
Laser Remelting Power Effect on Microstructure, Hardness and Wear Behavior of AISI 1020
Authors: Erdoğan Azmi
Published: February 2022

In this study, the effect of laser remelting on the microstructure, hardness, and wear properties of AISI 1020 steel was investigated. In this context, laser remelting process was carried out at different laser powers. The surface of steel was subjected to laser remelting process at 1, 1.3, and 1.8 kW powers. Thanks to the applied laser remelting surface modification, martensitic transformation was obtained in the pearlite+ferrite structure. Depending on the applied laser power, the transformation depth increased. The martensitic transformation was determined at a depth of 70 µm at the lowest laser power and 250 µm at the highest laser power. An increase up to 552 HV was achieved after the remelting process on the surface of AISI 1020 steel. Depending on the increasing laser power, the highest surface hardness values decreased. However, the hardness values obtained with increasing laser power were preserved at longer distances towards the center. In ball-on-disc tribology tests, laser remelting has been shown to reduce wear losses by up to 52%. The highest wear resistance was determined in the sample whose surface was modified with the lowest laser power. Laser remelted samples showed lower friction coefficient due to hardness and oxidation on their surfaces.
Model predictive trajectory tracking control of unmanned vehicles based on radial basis function neural network optimisation
Authors: Xiao Zongxin , Hu Minghui , Fu Chunyun , Qin Datong
Published: February 2022

To improve the accuracy of tracking unmanned vehicles on known trajectories, two optimised model predictive control (MPC) trajectory tracking control systems are designed based on the adaptive compensation and robust control of a radial basis function (RBF) neural network. Based on the traditional MPC trajectory tracking controller and the local approximation characteristics of the RBF neural network, the proposed RBF compensation–MPC control system is designed to compensate for the inaccuracy in the MPC prediction model arising from modelling errors. The results show that this method can achieve a root mean square error of less than 0.3703 m for the lateral position. Subsequently, to suppress the error generated by the RBF neural network and reduce the degree of vehicle sideslip, the error is considered to be external interference, and the anti-interference characteristic of the RBF robust control is incorporated into the RBF robust-MPC control system. Following the re-optimisation of the RBF robust control, the root mean square error of the lateral position is set within 0.2352 m. The results of a MATLAB/Carsim joint simulation show that using the RBF robust control can improve the tracking accuracy of the traditional MPC controller compared with RBF compensation control, while simultaneously improving the driving stability of the vehicle.
Process Modelling and Optimization using ANN and RSM during WSEM of Ni51.59Ti48.41 shape memory alloy
Authors: Singh Thakur , Kumar Jatinder , Prakash Misra Joy
Published: February 2022

Shape memory Ti-Ni alloys have fascinated significantly in recent years since these types of material are intelligent, shape memory and functional materials. These materials find many applications in the engineering and medical fields. In the current study, ‘Ni-Ti’ shape memory alloy (SMA) has been processed by wire spark erosion machining (WSEM). This research article explores the effects of controllable machining variables such as spark on-time, spark off-time, wire feed and servo voltage on productivity, i.e., material removal rate (MRR) and surface integrity. To assess the impact of WSEM controllable factor, a statistical analysis is done. Mathematical modelling and ANOVA study have been conducted after performing 29 experiments based on Box-Behnken design (BBD) of response surface methodology (RSM) technique. Artificial neural network (ANN) modelling technique is used for further prediction of the response. The predicted values obtained from the ANN model shows excellent agreement with experimental outcomes. In this study, the correlation coefficient (R) value is 0.9919, which is very close to unity. It is clearly showing that the prediction accuracy of ANN model is high. Furthermore, scanning electron microscope (SEM) is utilized to assess the microstructure and composition of the WSEMed surfaces. After a critical study, it has been noticed that machined surfaces contain debris, cracks, craters and spherical droplets. In addition, energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis has been performed to check the elemental composition on the machined surface.
Disturbance observer backstepping sliding mode agile attitude control of satellite based on the anti-saturation hybrid actuator of the magnetorquer and magnetically suspended wheel
Authors: Tayebi Javad , Han Chao , Yu Yuanjin
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a new anti-saturation strategy to avoid external singularity, improve reliability, and fast maneuvers of a satellite by combining the novel three-dimensional magnetically suspended wheel (3-D MSW) actuator and magnetorquer. The MSW is the preferred actuator for agile maneuvering compared to the traditional control moment gyro due to frictionlessness, low vibration, and long lifetime. The anti-saturation strategy includes 3-D MSW arrangement with pyramid configuration and three orthogonal magnetorquers. A steering law is designed to distribute control torque between actuators by calculating command tilt angles of the 3-D MSW and magnetic dipoles of the magnetorquer. A nonlinear disturbance observer backstepping sliding mode controller is designed to control the rotor shaft of 3-D MSW for agile maneuvers and desaturate it with the magnetorquer despite high-frequency disturbances. Finally, simulation results of attitude control based on anti-saturation hybrid actuators demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of agile maneuvers. Compared with usual steering laws, simulation outcomes confirm the proposed method and desaturate the 3-D MSW system when it experiences a maximum workspace and does not have extra angular momentum.
Numerical simulation on interaction process between impact penetrator and lunar soil particles for lunar subsurface exploration
Authors: Li He , Shen Yi , Deng Zongquan , Zeng Qingliang
Published: February 2022

Unmanned in-situ exploration is an important technique to study the physical and mechanical parameters of lunar composition and evolution. The impact penetrator is an effective device for in-situ detection of the lunar soil profile at predetermined depth. Because of the lack of real lunar soil samples, it is very difficult to study and evaluate the performance of the impact penetrator. In order to truly reflect the interaction between the impact penetrator and lunar soil particles, a simulation model of the lunar soil body was established by means of discrete-element analysis, and the model parameters were matched and verified by the experimental method. Based on this model, the interaction behaviors between the penetrators with different head configurations and the lunar soil body were simulated. The stress field distribution in the lunar soil body and particle movement patterns during the penetrating process were revealed, which reflects the working principle and performance of the penetrator. The numerical simulation on the interaction process between the impact penetrator and lunar soil particles provides a feasible and effective method for the design and optimization of the penetrator, which will contribute to the development of lunar subsurface in-situ exploration technologies.
Preparation of a novel superabsorbent hydrogel based on polyacrylic acid/shellac using gamma irradiation for adsorption removal of malachite green dye
Authors: Elhady Mohamed A , Mousaa Issa M , Attia Rehab M
Published: February 2022

The objective of this study is to prepare a super absorbent hydrogel based on polyacrylic acid and an environmentally friendly material such as shellac to remove malachite green dye from aqueous solution using gamma radiation. The adsorption of malachite green (MG) dyes using polyacrylic acid (PAA)/shellac (SH) hydrogels was studied. These hydrogels were prepared by mixing aqueous solutions of PAA and SH at differing molecular ratios (10%, 20%, and 30% SH content in the final reaction mixture) and varying doses of gamma radiation (10–50 kGy). The water absorption by the PAA/SH hydrogels prepared at a 30-kGy radiation dose increased with an increase in the SH content. The removal of the MG dyes from an aqueous solution using PAA and PAA/SH hydrogels was investigated at different values for selected parameters, such as pH, contact time, SH concentration, and adsorbent dosage. The highest MG adsorption percentage (95.5%) was obtained for the PAA/SH hydrogel with the highest SH content (30%). As the adsorbent dosage increased, the dye adsorption capacity increased, accordingly. The combination of SH and gamma radiation caused the PAA to undergo structural changes verified by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the morphology of the PAA/SH hydrogel and revealed that the SH belonging to the PAA matrixes exhibited a homogeneous dispersion. The thermal stability of the hydrogels was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. The amount of dye adsorbed by the PAA/SH hydrogel was calculated by subtraction based on the ultraviolet–visible (UV–VIS) spectroscopy determination of the concentration of leftover dye in solution using a UV–VIS spectrophotometer.
Role of Skill Development Programmes in Youth Development
Authors: Kumar Jitender , Hooda Garima
Published: February 2022

The development of a country also leads to the development of its people. As the economy progresses in terms of industrialisation, agricultural practices and the development of infrastructure playgrounds, skills have become an integral part of the lives of those who want to achieve a sustainable livelihood and a promising career. This article attempts to look at some reflections of these skill development programmes based on primary data. The article is divided into two parts. First, it assesses the awareness level of youth regarding various skill development programmes; and second, it demonstrates the importance of skill development programmes in the development of the country’s youth. For this study, a sample of 260 young people is used. This research article contributes to understanding the awareness level of youth towards skill development programmes and for a better understanding of the role of skill development programmes in helping youth gain employment, start their businesses, and change their lifestyle and social status.
Nutritional Experiences of Parents of Children Who Had Gastric Transposition Surgery
Authors: Özer Özlü Nazife Gamze , Vural Fatma , Dökümcü Ülküm Zafer , Özcan Coşkun , Erdener Hakkı Ata
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to understand the postoperative nutritional experiences of parents of children who had undergone gastric transposition surgery after corrosive esophageal injury. The study had a descriptive qualitative research design, and used a structured interview form as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The population of the study consisted of the parents of 12 children who had undergone gastric transposition surgery at the pediatric surgery clinic of a university hospital in an urban area in Turkey. Thematic analysis was conducted on the transcripts using the MAXQDA program. Four main themes emerged and five supporting sub-themes were identified. The main themes were what we experienced in the postoperative nutrition process, coping with how we live, what we want to know, and our recommendations to healthcare professionals. Family-centered care should be a main focus when caring children who have had gastric transposition surgery, and children and their parents should be supported by a multidisciplinary team.
Perceptions of PGY-2 Oncology Programs on Financial Toxicity Education and Preparedness
Authors: Gania Gaines Kyna , Tadros Monica , Fernandez Benny , Shokoya Aisha , Chow Nicholas
Published: February 2022

Cancer patients experience a rising monetary burden due to increased direct and in-direct costs associated with cancer treatment. This as a result has an adverse effect on the financial well-being of a cancer patient, also known as financial toxicity. Currently, there is a lack of literature surrounding the implementation of financial toxicity in post-graduate oncology residency training for pharmacists. The objective of this study was to describe the perceptions of PGY-2 oncology pharmacy residents and residency program directors on the incorporation of financial toxicity within their training programs and to assess self-perceptions of their level of abilities and experience managing financial toxicity for patients.

A qualitative RedCap electronic survey was emailed in December 2020 to resident and directors of PGY-2 oncology programs in the United States.

Out of 40 respondents, 64% of residency program directors were highly comfortable with the concept of financial toxicity, while 73% of pharmacy residents were uncomfortable with the concept of financial toxicity within their program. Furthermore, a majority of residents were either uncomfortable or highly uncomfortable managing financial toxicity for patients. In addition, the most commonly utilized method of incorporating the concept of financial toxicity in all programs was through specialty pharmacy and patient assistance programs (PAPs); residents also preferred these methods along with guest speakers to provide this training.

Financial toxicity concepts should be considered as an educational standard and incorporated through unique methods of education. We suggest introducing the concept through guest speakers, followed by practical applications integrated in specialty pharmacies and PAPs.
Bandage contact lens soaked in 0.1% diclofenac to relieve early postoperative pain and foreign body sensation after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy
Authors: Wang Yuan , Shen Fei , Sun Weiyang , Wang Qinmei , Zhao Xiangyang
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To study the effects of a bandage contact lens immersed in 0.1% diclofenac on pain management for patients undergoing transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TPRK).

Methods

In a prospective, comparative, contralateral, randomized, double-masked study, we assessed a total of 51 patients. The eyes of each patient were randomly divided into two groups. After TPRK, a normal soft bandage contact lens was placed on one eye as the control group, and a bandage contact lens soaked in diclofenac was placed on the other eye as the experimental group. When the bandage contact lens was not removed, postoperative pain and other ocular discomforts were compared at 2, 18, and 24 h and 2, 3, 4, and 5 postoperative days. Patients were then examined after 1 month. Visual acuity and subepithelial haze were also evaluated.

Results

The mean pain score was 2.69 ± 1.96 in the control group, which was significantly higher than that in the experimental group, which received the diclofenac-soaked bandage contact lens at 2 postoperative hours. The statistical difference between the two groups’ mean foreign body sensation at 2 postoperative hours was detected (p = 0.035). No differences were detected between the two groups’ subepithelial haze scores or visual acuity.

Conclusion

A bandage contact lens soaked in 0.1% diclofenac solution can be used as a potential drug-delivery system to relieve early postoperative pain and foreign body sensation after TPRK.
Bioinformatics Approach to Identify Significant Biomarkers, Drug Targets Shared Between Parkinson’s Disease and Bipolar Disorder: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hossain Md. Bipul , Islam Md. Kobirul , Adhikary Apurba , Rahaman Abidur , Islam Md. Zahidul
Published: February 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder responsible for shaking, rigidity, and trouble in walking and patients’ coordination ability and physical stability deteriorate day by day. Bipolar disorder (BD) is a psychiatric disorder which is the reason behind extreme shiftiness in mood, and frequent mood inversion may reach too high called mania. People with BD have a greater chance of developing PD during the follow-up period. A lot of work has been done to understand the key factors for developing these 2 diseases. But the molecular functionalities that trigger the development of PD in people with BD are not clear yet. In our study, we are intended to identify the molecular biomarkers and pathways shared between BD and PD. We have investigated the RNA-Seq gene expression data sets of PD and BD. A total of 45 common unique genes (32 up-regulated and 13 down-regulated) abnormally expressed in both PD and BD were identified by applying statistical methods on the GEO data sets. Gene ontology (GO) and BioCarta, KEGG, and Reactome pathways analysis of these 45 common dysregulated genes identified numerous altered molecular pathways such as mineral absorption, Epstein-Barr virus infection, HTLV-I infection, antigen processing, and presentation. Analysis of protein-protein interactions revealed 9 significant hub-proteins, namely RPL21, RPL34, CKS2, B2M, TNFRSF10A, DTX2, HLA-B, ATP2A3, and TAPBP. Significant transcription factors (IRF8, SPI1, RUNX1, and FOXA1) and posttranscriptional regulator microRNAs (hsa-miR-491-3p and hsa-miR-1246) are also found by analyzing gene-transcription factors and gene-miRNAs interactions, respectively. Protein-drug interaction analysis revealed hub-protein B2M’s interaction with molecular drug candidates like N-formylmethionine, 3-indolebutyric acid, and doxycycline. Finally, a link between pathological processes of PD and BD is identified at transcriptional level. This study may help us to predict the development of PD among the people suffering from BD and gives some clue to understand significant pathological mechanisms.
Local, Institutional, or Transnational? Social Networks of Russian Marriage Migrants in Turkey
Authors: Deniz Ayla , Özgür E. Murat
Published: February 2022

This study focuses on the spatialization and institutionalization of social networks of Russian women who migrated to Turkey via marriage in the last 30 years. Specifically, it investigates how and why their social networks have been changing at the local and transnational levels. We conducted in-depth interviews with 56 women between 2014−2021. Our extensive analysis indicates that despite their newly established status via marriages, the Russian women have weak ties with the locals regardless of the migration period, preferring mostly to engage with other Russian women in Turkey. Even if the different migrant associations established by Russian migrants in Turkey do not actually aim this, they create an effect that increases the social distance with the host society and serves to strengthen the connection between the migrants. Also, unlike pioneer migrants, newer marriage migrants have established strong transnational ties with others living overseas, regardless of their gender or ethnic identity. Further, this study reveals that the migrant women's subjectivity, their spouses’ benefit-oriented negotiation styles, and the state's diaspora policy all shape the women's social networks at different levels.
Cultural theory, rejection of cultural bias, and party preference
Authors: Olli Eero , Swedlow Brendon
Published: February 2022

What explains party preference? Ideology and values do but these explanations are undertheorized. We offer grid-group cultural theory (CT) to provide a theory of ideology and values to explain party preference. We aim to demonstrate the value of an operationalization of CT that includes rejection of cultural bias (rejection of political values and beliefs) to explain party preference. Our study builds on research that recognizes the importance of negative partisanship and of rejecting cultural biases and other values in party choice. We analyze the influence of cultural biases on party preference in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. We find that respondents’ top two cultural biases explain up to a third of the variation in respondents’ party support in these Nordic multi-party systems and that rejection of cultural biases is an important determinant of party preference. We discuss how our analysis can be extended to other party systems including those with only two major parties.
Irreducibly social: Why biocriminology’s ontoepistemology is incompatible with the social reality of crime
Authors: Burt Callie H
Published: February 2022

Professing interactionist bio + social terminology, contemporary biocriminology asserts a break from its biologically essentialist past. Assurances notwithstanding, whether biocriminology has undergone a decisive paradigm shift rejecting notions of biological criminals and bad brains remains uncertain. Unfortunately, discussions of biocriminology's assumptions are mired in politics, obscuring important scientific issues. Motivated to clarify misunderstanding, I address the ontoepistemology of biocriminology from a scientific realist perspective. Drawing on familiar notions of crime as a social construction, I explain how and why biocriminology's ontoepistemology is inconsistent with the social reality of crime for scientific not ideological reasons. I explain that recognizing crime as a social construction does not imply that crime is not real or objective and cannot be studied scientifically. On the contrary, the irreducibly social nature of crime requires that scientific realists reject assumptions of “biological crime” as well as the biologically reductionist epistemology on which biocriminology depends.
Eccentricity and slenderness ratio effects of arched steel haunches subjected to cyclic loading; experimental study
Authors: Emami Ebrahim , Kheyroddin Ali , Rezaifar Omid
Published: February 2022

This paper investigated the cyclic performance of arched steel haunches as a new strategy in the seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete frames and focused on the slenderness ratio effect. A series of cyclic loading were conducted on six test specimens in two groups with the same nominal length and different axial eccentricities of 0.1 and 0.2 nominal length and with out-of-plane slenderness ratios of 138, 69, and 16. Experimental results indicated that the slenderness ratio played a very important role on cyclic performance in compression and even tension, so that a more desirable hysteretic behavior was achieved when the overall buckling potential was restricted. Therefore, by reducing this ratio, the maximum compressive and tensile strengths increased up to 1.78 and 1.28 times, respectively, and also the dissipated energy and maximum viscous damping upgraded up to 3.32 and 1.43 times, respectively. More difference in tensile and compressive behavior for ultimate strength and plastic stiffness was observed, when the initial eccentricity decreased. Also, with twice increase in the initial eccentricity, the cross-sectional area effect on the maximum strength and plastic stiffness decreased, especially in tension, so that despite the same slenderness ratio and 70% increase in cross-sectional area, these values in tension descended up to 1.31 and 3.5 times, respectively. In addition, the compressive plastic stiffness degraded about 77% due to more degradation in plastic strength.
Prenatal and early childhood predictors of intelligence quotient (IQ) in 7-year-old Danish children from the Odense Child Cohort
Authors: Beck Iben H. , Bilenberg Niels , Davidsen Kirstine A. , Rasmussen Anne A. , Boye Henriette , Jensen Tina K.
Published: February 2022

Background:

Cognitive development measured as intelligence quotient can predict socioeconomic markers in adulthood. It is therefore of interest to determine predictors of childhood intelligence quotient.

Aim:

To assess intelligence quotient scores based on standardised Danish age-appropriate scores and to evaluate potential predictors of intelligence quotient.

Materials:

At 7 years of age children in the Odense Child Cohort completed an abbreviated version of the Wechsler intelligence scale for children 5th edition consisting of four subtests (vocabulary, similarities, block design and matrix reasoning) from which the full scale intelligence quotient and verbal comprehension index were estimated. Potential predictors from pregnancy through childhood were collected from questionnaires, birth records and clinical examinations.

Methods:

Intelligence quotient scores were investigated through descriptive statistics and linear regression models.

Results:

The mean full scale intelligence quotient among 1375 children was 99.1 (95% confidence interval 98.5; 99.8) points. Higher full scale intelligence quotient scores were observed in girls 100.8 (95% confidence interval 100.0; 101.8) compared to boys 97.6 (96.7; 98.4), and in children of mothers with high and intermediate education 101.7 (100.4; 103.1) and 99.6 (98.7; 100.5), respectively, compared to low education 96.1 (94.9; 97.3). In linear regression analyses, longer maternal education and child sex (girls) remained strong predictors of intelligence quotient at age 7 years. In addition, paternal education, child head circumference and longer duration of breastfeeding were associated with higher intelligence quotient, whereas maternal overweight and obesity before pregnancy was associated with lower intelligence quotient.

Conclusions:

Mean intelligence quotient scores were comparable to the standardised mean intelligence quotient of 100 point of Danish peers. It is important to follow up these children to determine which predictors persist into adulthood.
Farmers that engage in entrepreneurship for the “wrong” reason and the moderating role of cultural intolerance
Authors: Hunter Erik , Nybom Jozefine , Micheels Eric , Klyver Kim
Published: February 2022

In the agricultural sector, the Law of Jante—a Scandinavian form of cultural intolerance towards standing out, being different and overachieving (akin to the Tall Poppy Syndrome and The nail that sticks out gets hammered down culture found in other countries)—may play an important role by influencing when entrepreneurship is an acceptable strategic choice to adversity. Based on a three group, between-subjects experiment of 122 Swedish university students studying agricultural and rural management, we tested whether the advice our participants gave to a fictitious farmer to pursue entrepreneurial activity depended on information regarding the farmer's motivation to pursue entrepreneurship (experimental treatments included motivation scenarios based on necessity vs. opportunity driven vs. control). Moreover, we test whether entrepreneurial advice is moderated by the participants own “Jante-ness”. Unexpectedly, we found that our participants did not adapt the entrepreneurship advice they give to the situational context, nor does Jante play a moderating role; instead we found that Jante had a significant and negative main effect on the entrepreneurial advice given. This finding suggests that Jante is still very much alive and may play an important role in explaining relatively low rates of innovation and entrepreneurship in (Swedish) agriculture.
See finish! Scunnered!! A vernacular critique of hierarchies of knowledge in marketing
Authors: Bádéjọ Folúké A. , Gordon Ross
Published: February 2022

Our paper presents a critique of how a totalising consumer voice predominates, as does a globalised marketing knowledge. We argue that it is time to release ideas from the marginalised, the unhinged and the peripheral. We feature a fictional dialogue between two characters using vernacular language: Ọmọ Naija, a Pidgin-speaking Yorùbá woman from Nigeria, and Rab, a Glasgow Patter-speaking man from Scotland. The conversation traverses two important areas of critique regarding hierarchies of knowledge in marketing: (1) decolonisation and (2) marginalisation of the vernacular. Our characters draw upon ancient and contemporary thinkers, writers and cultural icons to substantiate their critiques. Our analysis foregrounds how hierarchies of knowledge in marketing serve academic imperialism, an untranslatability of vernacular life and ignore the terroir of everyday existences.
Curriculum policy and instructional planning: Teachers’ autonomy across various school contexts
Authors: Dieudé Alessandra , Prøitz Tine S
Published: February 2022

International trends promoting school diversity and choice have reshaped education across Europe, leading towards a multiplicity in ownership structures and varied governance configurations. More recently, this can also be seen in European countries with a long history of state-owned and governed public schools, such as in the Nordic states. The aim of this article is to explore autonomy and curriculum control in teacher’s work in public and independent schools within a country context where there are long traditions of ‘one public school for all’. The article draws on interviews with school leaders and teachers on a Waldorf school, an IB school, and a Norwegian public school as well as analysis of local school documents. The analysis shows that varying school contexts present both different and overlapping characteristics of curriculum control and teacher autonomy. All schools have accommodated to educational outcome governed regimes, however, teacher autonomy in the school context appears to differ. Teacher autonomy is more related to teachers’ practices, not the educational outcomes required. The study shows how policies intending for the standardisation of schooling may work in conflict with policy intentions of educational diversity, provided by independent schools of different character.
Application of LES combined with a wave equation for the simulation of noise induced by a flow past a generic side mirror
Authors: Guseva Ekaterina , Egorov Yuri
Published: February 2022

The paper presents validation results of a hybrid simulation method for aeroacoustics in turbulent flows at low Mach numbers. The hybrid method implemented in the Ansys Fluent® CFD package applies a scale-resolving turbulence model to compute the noise sources in an incompressible flow, while the noise propagation is modeled by a wave equation formulated for the acoustic potential. The selected test case deals with a flow and a sound field around a generic side view mirror of a car. The SBES model by Menter, which belongs to the class of the RANS-LES models, is used for the flow simulation. It switches to the Large Eddy Simulation (LES) mode in separated mixing layers and recirculation zone behind the mirror as well as in the following wake, where flow develops intensive turbulence and dominating noise sources. The acoustics wave equation is formulated in the model form of Kaltenbacher et al. and is applied in the time domain. The overall calculation is performed as a transient co-simulation on the same mesh using the finite-volume discretization method for both the flow and the acoustics parts. The wave equation is advanced in time using the HHT-α method. Obtained distribution of the mean wall pressure over the mirror surface closely matches the experimental one. Rich content of the resolved turbulent vortices in the separation zone and good agreement of the calculated and measured wall pressure spectra at sensor locations downstream the mirror evidence a proper LES resolution quality of noise sources. Comparison of the computed noise spectra at the remote microphones with the experimental data demonstrates the sound propagation accuracy and validates the overall aeroacoustics simulation method.
New Metropolis
Authors: Waks Leonard J
Published: February 2022

An old, retired professor is urged by a younger ex-colleague to visit a new consolidated metropolitan school district to learn about new school policies and new technologies. He discovers extensive regional-area use of high-speed trains and autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing. The new transport technologies allow all students within a 50 mile radius to get to any school or learning center in the district, optimizing integration by race and class. The AI devices include emotion detecting headbands and new mind-reading headbands in Beta mode, which facilitate rapid advances in learning as well as issues with security and privacy. Extensive use of Internet resources enables the personalization of curricula. Rapid and inexpensive 3D printing supports the rapid and inexpensive building of new tailor-designed facilities. The old professor is both impressed and troubled by what he sees and is surprised to find that his reservations are not shared by the progressive administrators, teachers, parents, or young learners.
Risk of obstructive sleep apnea among taxi–motorbike drivers in Parakou city in West Africa and associated factors with road traffic accidents
Authors: Ade Serge , Flatin Marius C , Wachinou Prudence A , Badirou Abdel-Samad , Cissé Ibrahim Mama , Adjobimey Mênonli , Agodokpessi Gildas , Harries Anthony D
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an underdiagnosed chronic respiratory disease, causing excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and road traffic accidents (RTA). This study aimed to determine the risk of OSA among taxi–motorbike drivers (TMD) and factors associated with RTA in Parakou, Benin.

Methods

A cross-sectional comparative study was carried out between July and September 2020, including 225 TMD and 450 motorbike drivers other than TMD (non-TMD). A multiple logistic regression was then performed to determine factors associated with RTA.

Results

The mean age of participants was 38.2 ± 10.2 and 36.6 ±10.9 years, respectively, for TMD and non-TMD ( p = .048). The average daily working time was 10.7 ± 2.3H and 9.1±3.5H, respectively, for TMD and non-TMD ( p < .001). Average sleeping time was comparable in both groups (7.5±1.4H vs 7.4±1.4H; p = .415). TMD significantly more complained of non-restorative sleep (38.7% vs 18.4%; p < .001) but less of EDS (20.0% vs 28.7%; p = .015). Abdominal obesity predominated in TMD (13.8% vs 4.4%; p < .001). An increased risk of OSA (NoSAS score ≥8) was diagnosed in 25.8% TMD and 26.7% non-TMD ( p = .805). Overall, 25.8% of TMD and 18.4% of non-TMD ( p = .027) reported at least one RTA in the last 12 months. After adjusted analysis, the unique factor associated with RTA was a daily sleeping pills consumption (aOR=2.2; 95%CI = 1.2–3.8; p = .006).

Conclusion

There is need to improve systematic screening and diagnosis of OSA in both TMD and non-TMD and reinforce the regulation and consumption of sleeping pills.
Diabetic Foot Syndrome in the COVID-19 era: How to Move from Classical to new Approaches
Authors: Anichini Roberto , Cosentino Claudia , Papanas Nikolaos
Published: February 2022

Diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is a major complication of diabetes mellitus. Coronavirus infectious disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created new necessities and priorities in DFS management. These include telemedicine and patient triage to minimise hospitalisation and visits to the clinic. Moreover, new studies will be needed to evaluate whether the lockdown in patients with DFS or in those with high risk of DFS have increased the risk of deteriorating outcomes, including limb loss. Our future challenge will lie in re-organising our world during the pandemic and after its resolution. We need more awareness of the widespread ways of the changes in taking care of patients and to improve education, skills, and behaviour of high-risk patients.
Experimental Validation of the Cumulative MDRM in theP300 Speller Machine
Authors: Zerrouki Fodil , Haddab Salah
Published: February 2022

The P300 speller Machine is among the leading applications of the electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain computer interfaces (BCIs), it is still a benchmark and a persistent challenge for the BCI Community. EEG signal classification represents the key piece of a BCI chain. The minimum distance to Riemannian mean (MDRM) belongs to these classification methods emerging in different BCI applications such as text spelling by thought. Based on a binary classification of each covariance matrix separately, character prediction is done according to the highest score across the whole set of all repetitions. Minimum cumulative distance to Riemannian mean (MCDRM) is a Cumulative variant of the MDRM, perfectly adapted to the P300 Speller Machine. The power of this variant is that prediction takes a more global proceeding involving the n repetitions together. Indeed, thanks to cumulative distances selected row and column are those having the covariance matrices both closer to the Target barycenter and farther from the non-Target one. This variant overcomes the main MDRM limitations as it improves inter-sessional generalization, allows optimal use of all repetitions and reduces considerably the risk of conflict appearing during the selection of rows and columns leading to character prediction. We applied this variant to the raw signals of Data set II-b of Berlin BCI and compared to the published results the MCDRM offers significantly higher results: 97.5% of correct predictions compared to the 96.5% of the competition winner. The MCDRM fits best with the P300 Speller machine, especially when dealing with noisy signals that requires intelligent and optimal usage of the n repetitions.
The role of the eye region for familiar face recognition: Evidence from spatial low-pass filtering and contrast negation
Authors: Quinn Bartholomew PA , Wiese Holger
Published: February 2022

What information is used for familiar face recognition? While previous research suggests a particular importance of the eye region, information from the rest of the face also needs to be integrated. What type of information is used in conjunction with the eyes is largely unclear. In three experiments, participants were asked to recognise so-called face chimeras, in which the eye region was not manipulated, while the rest of the face was either presented in negative contrast (contrast chimeras) or low-pass filtered (blur chimeras). We show (1) that both chimeras are recognised substantially better than fully blurred faces, (2) that the recognition advantage for blur chimeras is specific to the eye region but cannot be explained by cues available in this part of the face alone, and (3) that a combination of negative contrast and blurring outside of the eye region eliminates the chimera advantage. We conclude that full-frequency but distorted surface reflectance cues (in contrast chimeras) or coarse shape information (in blur chimeras) can be used in combination with the eye region for effective face recognition. Our findings further suggest that the face recognition system can flexibly use both types of information, depending on availability.
Early release from prison with electronic monitoring: Hook for or hindrance to change?
Authors: Villman Emma
Published: February 2022

In Finland, prisoners can be placed outside prison with electronic monitoring up to 6 months before their regular conditional release. This supervised probationary freedom entails electronic monitoring in one’s own home, participation in productive activities (work, education and rehabilitation), and other specified forms of supervision. This article explores prisoners’ experiences of early release with electronic monitoring by analysing qualitative interviews with 18 prisoners before and after their release from prison. Using the desistance theory of cognitive transformation, the author argues that while early release with electronic monitoring can function as a ‘hook for change’, inherent elements of the programme serve to hinder change and desistance from crime. Even if the combination of control and social support characterizing the Finnish regime of early release with electronic monitoring can help to promote social integration, it creates a vast and demanding sentence less successful in integrating prisoners into the labour market.