bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bagasse Electricity Potential of Conventional Sugarcane Factories
Authors: Kabeyi Moses Jeremiah Barasa , Olanrewaju Oludolapo Akanni
Published: May 2023

Sugar industries have huge potential to contribute to the sustainable energy transition through electricity generation and production of biofuels. Sugar-producing countries generate huge volumes of sugarcane bagasse as a byproduct of sugarcane production. In this study, the performance of an operating traditional sugar factory is analyzed for electricity generation and export potential. The study presents characteristics and energy potential of modern and traditional sugar factories. The challenges facing a traditional sugar mill are inefficient boilers, less efficient and back pressure steam turbines, and wasteful and inefficient use of steam turbine drives as prime movers instead of modern electric drives for the mills and cane knives. Others are the use of inefficient and energy intensive cane mill rollers instead of the diffusers which have low energy requirements. It was demonstrated that the cogeneration potential of sugar factory is quite significant but currently underutilized. Sugar factories can make significant contribution towards mitigation of greenhouse gas emission mitigation through supply of green electricity to the public grid. The study showed that the factory uses very old and inefficient boilers aged over 39 years which contributes to poor performance and low electricity generation capacity. Modernization is required to increase the generation and electricity export capacity through investment in new and modern high-pressure boilers, replacement of inefficient back pressure boilers (BPSB) with more efficient condensing extraction turbines (CEST), and reduction of factory steam consumption by electrification of mills and cane knife turbine drives among other measures. This study showed that the 3,000 TCD factory can invest in a 15 MW power plant based on current average factory performance indicators and more if the throughput and overall performance is close to design parameters.
A Ku Wideband Circularly Polarized Microstrip Antenna Array with Low Profile Crossed-Dipole Element
Authors: Liu Haipeng , Zhang Yunhua , Zhao Xiaowen
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a novel Ku wideband circularly polarized (CP) antenna array composed of crossed-dipole element (CDE) and fed through sequential rotation (SR) feeding technique. Unlike the traditional CP-CDE fed by coaxial cable that usually works at low frequencies, the proposed CDE consists of two orthogonal heart-shaped patch dipoles that can work at frequencies as high as Ku-band, at the same time achieving a larger bandwidth. A feeding structure is proposed without welding, so potential errors in the antenna assembly process can be mitigated. A 2 × 2 CP antenna array with wideband SR feeding network is designed based on the CDE to further expand the axial ratio (AR) bandwidth. The designed antenna array is fabricated using the multilayer printed circuit board (PCB) technology and measured in anechoic chamber using the planar near-field measurement facility. The measured results show that −10 dB impedance bandwidth of 44% (11.6–18.15 GHz) along with 3 dB AR bandwidth of 38.7% (12–17.65 GHz) and 3 dB gain bandwidth of 34.6% (12.2–17.3 GHz) as well as 11.02 dBic peak gain have been achieved while maintaining a lower profile.
The HDAC2-SP1 Axis Orchestrates Protumor Macrophage Polarization
Authors: Zheng Xiang , Sarode Poonam , Weigert Andreas , Turkowski Kati , Chelladurai Prakash , Günther Stefan , Kuenne Carsten , Winter Hauke , Stenzinger Albrecht , Reu Simone , Grimminger Friedrich , Stiewe Thorsten , Seeger Werner , Pullamsetti Soni Savai , Savai Rajkumar
Published: May 2023

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), including antitumor M1-like TAMs and protumor M2-like TAMs, are transcriptionally dynamic innate immune cells with diverse roles in lung cancer development. Epigenetic regulators are key in controlling macrophage fate in the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment. Here, we demonstrate that the spatial proximity of HDAC2-overexpressing M2-like TAMs to tumor cells significantly correlates with poor overall survival of lung cancer patients. Suppression of HDAC2 in TAMs altered macrophage phenotype, migration, and signaling pathways related to interleukins, chemokines, cytokines, and T-cell activation. In coculture systems of TAMs and cancer cells, suppressing HDAC2 in TAMs resulted in reduced proliferation and migration, increased apoptosis of cancer cell lines and primary lung cancer cells, and attenuated endothelial cell tube formation. HDAC2 regulated the M2-like TAM phenotype via acetylation of histone H3 and transcription factor SP1. Myeloid cell–specific deletion of Hdac2 and pharmacologic inhibition of class I HDACs in four different murine lung cancer models induced the switch from M2-like to M1-like TAMs, altered infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and reduced tumor growth and angiogenesis. TAM-specific HDAC2 expression may provide a biomarker for lung cancer stratification and a target for developing improved therapeutic approaches.

Significance:

HDAC2 inhibition reverses the protumor phenotype of macrophages mediated by epigenetic modulation induced by the HDAC2–SP1 axis, indicating a therapeutic option to modify the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
Intermetastatic and Intrametastatic Heterogeneity Shapes Adaptive Therapy Cycling Dynamics
Authors: Gallaher Jill , Strobl Maximilian , West Jeffrey , Gatenby Robert , Zhang Jingsong , Robertson-Tessi Mark , Anderson Alexander R.A.
Published: May 2023

Adaptive therapies that alternate between drug applications and drug-free vacations can exploit competition between sensitive and resistant cells to maximize the time to progression. However, optimal dosing schedules depend on the properties of metastases, which are often not directly measurable in clinical practice. Here, we proposed a framework for estimating features of metastases through tumor response dynamics during the first adaptive therapy treatment cycle. Longitudinal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in 16 patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer undergoing adaptive androgen deprivation treatment were analyzed to investigate relationships between cycle dynamics and clinical variables such as Gleason score, the change in the number of metastases over a cycle, and the total number of cycles over the course of treatment. The first cycle of adaptive therapy, which consists of a response period (applying therapy until 50% PSA reduction), and a regrowth period (removing treatment until reaching initial PSA levels), delineated several features of the computational metastatic system: larger metastases had longer cycles; a higher proportion of drug-resistant cells slowed the cycles; and a faster cell turnover rate sped up drug response time and slowed regrowth time. The number of metastases did not affect cycle times, as response dynamics were dominated by the largest tumors rather than the aggregate. In addition, systems with higher intermetastasis heterogeneity responded better to continuous therapy and correlated with dynamics from patients with high or low Gleason scores. Conversely, systems with higher intrametastasis heterogeneity responded better to adaptive therapy and correlated with dynamics from patients with intermediate Gleason scores.

Significance:

Multiscale mathematical modeling combined with biomarker dynamics during adaptive therapy helps identify underlying features of metastatic cancer to inform treatment decisions.
Ciência grega
Authors: Silva Luiz Carlos Roque da
Published: May 2023

(1º parágrafo do artigo)
O solo da Grécia foi primitivamente habitado por egeus e cretenses (minóicos). A partir do século XX A.C. e durante o segundo milênio, povos indo-europeus, em sucessivas hordas invasoras, vêm impor-se a estas populações. São jônicos, aqueus, eólios e dóricos. Ao findar a idade do bronze, estes povos já se haviam estabelecidos no território grego.
Da alquimia à química moderna
Authors: Dantes Maria Amélia Mascarenhas
Published: May 2023

(1º parágrafo do artigo)
Até muito recentemente, a História da Ciência deu pouca atenção ao estudo da Alquimia, a arte de transformar metais vis em ouro. Na verdade, parecia tratar-se de puro charlatismo, visto que nossos conhecimentos em Química nos garantem a impossibilidade de se transformar um elemento químico em outro. O desenvolvimento mais recente da Radioatividade, tornou novamente aberta a questão, porém permaneceu a descrença de ter sido possível a transmutação de metais, numa época em que não se contava com a técnica necessária para tal.
Role of Orthostatic Hypotension in the Development of Dementia in People With and Without Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Xia Xin , Qiu Chengxuan , Rizzuto Debora , Fratiglioni Laura , Dai Lu , Laukka Erika J. , Grande Giulia , Vetrano Davide Liborio
Published: May 2023

Background:

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) has been associated with elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and dementia risk. To better understand the OH-dementia association, we assessed the associations of OH with CVD and subsequent dementia in older adults and considered the temporality of CVD and dementia onset.

Methods:

This 15-year population-based cohort study included, at baseline, 2703 dementia-free participants (mean age, 73.7 years) who were divided into a CVD-free cohort (n=1986) and a CVD cohort (n=717). OH was defined as a systolic/diastolic blood pressure decline of ≥20/10 mm Hg after standing up from a supine position. CVDs and dementia were ascertained by physicians or identified from registers. Multistate Cox regressions were applied to assess the associations of OH with CVD and subsequent dementia in the CVD-free and dementia-free cohort. The OH-dementia association in the CVD cohort was examined with Cox regressions.

Results:

OH was present in 434 (21.9%) individuals in the CVD-free cohort and 180 (25.1%) individuals in the CVD cohort. OH was associated with a hazard ratio of 1.33 (95% CI, 1.12–1.59) for CVD. OH was not significantly associated with incident dementia in the absence of CVD occurring before dementia diagnosis (hazard ratio, 1.22 [95% CI, 0.83–1.81]). In the CVD cohort, individuals with OH had a higher dementia risk than those without OH (hazard ratio, 1.54 [95% CI, 1.06–2.23]).

Conclusions:

The association between OH and dementia may partly be explained by the intermediate development of CVD. In addition, in people with CVD, those with OH may have a poorer cognitive prognosis.
Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses revealed two additional taxa in Cyathus (Agaricales, Basidiomycota)
Authors: DUAN ZI-YAN , YANG XIN , LIU CHAO-MAO , ZHAO CHANG-LIN
Published: May 2023

Two new species of the bird’s nest fungus, Cyathus asiaticus and C. prismaticus are proposed based on a combination of the morphological and molecular evidence. Cyathus asiaticus is characterized by having an obconical, campanulate to cupulate basidiomata with the inconspicuously striation on the inner surface of the peridium, smooth mouth, silver gray to black peridioles with funicular cord, a monomitic hyphal system bearing the generative hyphae with clamp connections and broadly ellipsoid, elliptical, subglobose, ovoid, irregular, thick-walled basidiospores with inconspicuous apiculus. Cyathus prismaticus is characterised by the infundibuliform, obconical to cupulate basidiomata covered with shaggy or hirsute hairs, presence of the striations on the outer and inner surface of the peridium, peridioles with the funicular, a dimitic hyphal system with generative hyphae having clamp connections, prensence of the narrow oblique prisms and subglobose, ovoid, elliptical to broadly ellipsoid, thick-walled basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated, and the phylogenetic analysis were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference methods on two datasets (ITS+nLSU and ITS). The dataset analysis showed that two new species clustered into the genus Cyathus.
The review of Bulbophyllum section Tripudianthes (Orchidaceae) in the flora of Vietnam with the description of new species, B. viridipallidum
Authors: NGUYEN VAN CANH , AVERYANOV LEONID V. , MAISAK TATIANA V. , NGUYEN THI LIEN THUONG , NGUYEN VAN KHUONG , PHAM THI THANH DAT , NGUYEN DANH DUC , DANG VAN SON , AROMYEN WARAPONG , TRUONG BA VUONG
Published: May 2023

The paper provides a short annotated taxonomic review of Bulbopyllum sect. Tripudianthes from the flora of Vietnam along with a species-level key for identification. The section in Vietnam includes five species, one of which is a new species for science and described under the name, B. viridipallidum. The new species was found recently from Kon Tum Province of southern Vietnam. It is similar to B. kanburiense, B. khaoyaiense, and B. wallichii, but clearly differs by having pale greenish lateral sepals and two rounded calli at the lip base fused distally into a single prominent longitudinal keel; this is inflated at the lip apex into prominent half ovoid callus. In addition, we confirm the occurrence of B. wallichii in the flora of Vietnam. The taxonomic description, data on distribution, ecology, phenology, proposed conservation status, taxonomic notes, and the comparison of the new species with morphologically similar species are reported.
New records of Pimelodella (Siluriformes, Heptapteridae) from Colombia for the Amazon River basin, and redescription of P. serrata
Authors: CORTÉS-HERNÁNDEZ MIGUEL ÁNGEL , MÉNDEZ-LÓPEZ ALEJANDRO , DONASCIMIENTO CARLOS
Published: May 2023

We recorded Pimelodella bockmanni and P. serrata for the first time for Colombia, based on specimens collected in tributaries from the main channel of the Amazonas River, in the so-called Trapecio Amazónico, in the southernmost region of this country. We also present morphometric, meristic, and osteological data of the examined material, and provide a complementary morphological description of the poorly known P. serrata, a species known only from the Madeira River drainage in Bolivia and Brazil.
Reassessment of species delimitation using nuclear markers in three lentic-breeding salamanders from the Chugoku District of Japan (Amphibia: Caudata: Hynobiidae)
Authors: TOMIMORI YUSUKE , MATSUI MASAFUMI , OKAWA HIROSHI , NISHIKAWA KANTO , TANABE SHINGO , KAMASAKA RYO
Published: May 2023

Hynobius akiensis sensu lato has recently been split into three species based on short sequence analyses of cyt-b gene of mtDNA and without data of nuclear DNA, and strange sympatric distribution in some areas has been indicated in two species. We analyzed nuclear DNA marker (SNPs) and complete sequence of cyt-b in H. akiensis sensu lato to reassess species delimitation and genetic introgression among species. As a result, we found two lineages with discordant mitochondrial and nuclear DNA in some areas. Of H. akiensis sensu lato, each of the two contains the type locality of two species recently reported (H. sumidai and H. geiyoensis), and the use of these names has been previously advocated. However, their sympatric distribution was rejected based on nuclear DNA data, which we consider is more reliable than mtDNA. We thus clarify geographic boundary of these two species and revise the species delimitations.
The 2021 Hazardous Weather Testbed Experimental Warning Program Radar Convective Applications Experiment: A Forecaster Evaluation of the Tornado Probability Algorithm and the New Mesocyclone Detection Algorithm
Authors: Sandmæl Thea N. , Smith Brandon R. , Madden Jonathan G. , Monroe Justin W. , Hyland Patrick T. , Schenkel Benjamin A. , Meyer Tiffany C.
Published: May 2023

Developed as part of a larger effort by the National Weather Service (NWS) Radar Operations Center to modernize their suite of single-radar severe weather algorithms for the WSR-88D network, the Tornado Probability Algorithm (TORP) and the New Mesocyclone Detection Algorithm (NMDA) were evaluated by operational forecasters during the 2021 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hazardous Weather Testbed (HWT) Experimental Warning Program Radar Convective Applications experiment. Both TORP and NMDA leverage new products and advances in radar technology to create rotation-based objects that interrogate single-radar data, providing important summary and trend information that aids forecasters in issuing time-critical and potentially life-saving weather products. Utilizing virtual resources like Google Workspace and cloud instances on Amazon Web Services, 18 forecasters from the NOAA/NWS and the U.S. Air Force participated remotely over three weeks during the spring of 2021, providing valuable feedback on the efficacy of the algorithms and their display in an operational warning environment, serving as a critical step in the research-to-operations process for the development of TORP and NMDA. This article will discuss the details of the virtual HWT experiment and the results of each algorithm’s evaluation during the testbed.

Significance Statement

Before transitioning newly developed radar-based severe weather applications to forecasting operations, an experiment simulating the use of these tools by end users issuing severe weather warnings is helpful to identify both how they are best utilized and address any needed improvements to increase their operational readiness. Conducted in 2021, this study describes the forecaster evaluation of the single-radar Tornado Probability Algorithm (TORP) and the New Mesocyclone Detection Algorithm (NMDA) in one of the first completely virtual Hazardous Weather Testbed (HWT) experiments. Participants stated both TORP and NMDA offered marked improvement over the currently available algorithms by helping the operational forecaster build their confidence when issuing severe weather warnings and increasing their overall situational awareness of storms within their domain.
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Rectum—An Unexpected Diagnosis: Current Treatment Options for a Rare and Aggressive Entity
Authors: Evangelisti Taylor M. , Platoff Rebecca M. , Khrizman Polina , Morrison Jamin C. , Joneja Upasana , Allen Ashleigh A. , Giugliano Danica N. , Kwiatt Michael E. , McClane Steven J.
Published: May 2023

Rectal small cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive cancer subtype for which a consensus of optimal treatment has not yet been reached. This cancer presents a difficult surgical problem, and thus, the mainstay of treatment tends to mirror that of small cell carcinoma of the lung (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune modulators). This brief report highlights current treatment options available for this rare and difficult entity. There is a significant need for large-center clinical trials and prospective studies to help determine the best treatment regimen to effectively care for patients with small cell carcinoma of the rectum.
Abruption of Abdominal Pregnancy Following Blunt Trauma
Authors: Burt Jeremy N. , Beazley Thomas M. M. , Ridgway Mildred
Published: May 2023

Abdominal pregnancy represents a rare subset of ectopic pregnancy with a reported incidence around one per 10,000 live births. It is associated with high fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. In this case, we describe a 25-year-old primigravida female who presented as a trauma activation with acute hypotension following blunt trauma to the abdomen and who was found to have a viable abdominal pregnancy with placental abruption. Given hypotension and non-reassuring fetal heart tones, the decision was made to take the patient to the operating room for emergent exploratory laparotomy and cesarean section. The placenta was severely adhered to a portion of small bowel, the appendix, and the right adnexa with an approximate 20% abruption. The placenta and adhered structures were removed. In pregnant patients presenting after blunt trauma with free intraabdominal fluid and hypotension, abdominal pregnancy with abruption should be considered as an unlikely differential.
Inferior Vena Cava Filter Occlusion Causing Phlegmasia Alba Dolens
Authors: Burt Jeremy N. , Hirsh Joshua D. , Panchal Ramola M. , Endler Graham T. , Devalla Raviteja N. , Mitchell Marc E. , Villalobos Miguel A.
Published: May 2023

Phlegmasia alba dolens is a rare sequela of acute extensive venothrombus of the iliofemoral segments. Rarely, phlegmasia alba dolens can also result from clotted inferior vena cava filter. A 39-year-old with protein S deficiency, and prior inferior vena cava filter placement after remote trauma presented to the emergency department with progressive bilateral lower extremity pain and swelling. Venous duplex revealed extensive bilateral deep vein thromboses from the external iliac veins to popliteal veins, as well as thrombophlebitis of the left great saphenous vein. Venography confirmed patency of the suprarenal vena cava with abrupt occlusion of the infrarenal segment at the level of the inferior vena cava filter. The filter was removed followed by endovascular thrombectomy and adjunctive venoplasty. The patient progressed well and discharged on therapeutic anticoagulation. This case illustrates that a staged endovascular approach may be utilized for acute on chronic caval thrombosis and filter removal.
Change in Geographic Accessibility to Dental Clinics Affects Access to Care
Authors: Yamamoto T. , Hanazato M. , Hikichi H. , Kondo K. , Osaka K. , Kawachi I. , Aida J.
Published: May 2023

Access to dental clinics is a feature of the neighborhood service environment that may influence oral health care utilization. However, residential selection poses a challenge to causal inference. By studying the involuntary relocation of survivors of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (GEJE), we examined the association between changes in geographic distance to dental clinics and dental visits. Longitudinal data from a cohort of older residents in Iwanuma City directly impacted by the GEJE were analyzed in this study. The baseline survey was conducted in 2010, 7 mo before the occurrence of GEJE, and a follow-up was conducted in 2016. Using Poisson regression models, we estimated the incidence rate ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the uptake of denture use (as a proxy for dental visits) according to changes in distance from the nearest dental clinic to their house. Age at baseline, housing damage by the disaster, deteriorating economic conditions, and worsened physical activity were used as confounders. Among the 1,098 participants who had not worn dentures before the GEJE, 495 were men (45.1%), with a mean ± SD age at baseline of 74.0 ± 6.9 y. During the 6-year follow-up, 372 (33.9%) participants initiated denture use. Compared to those who experienced a large increase in distance to dental clinics (>370.0–6,299.1 m), a large decrease in distance to dental clinics (>429.0–5,382.6 m) was associated with a marginally significantly higher initiation of denture use among disaster survivors (IRR = 1.28; 95% CI, 0.99–1.66). The experience of major housing damage was independently associated with higher initiation of denture use (IRR = 1.77; 95% CI, 1.47−2.14). Improved geographic access to dental clinics may increase dental visits of disaster survivors. Further studies in non-disaster-affected areas are needed to generalize these findings.
Bemoaning Bambi: Visual Communication of Trauma From Witnessing One of Disney’s Saddest Character Deaths
Authors: Lammon Marissa
Published: May 2023

Disney’s collection of character deaths has been described by both consumers and academics as traumatic. Among the most often cited traumatic Disney deaths is that of Bambi’s mother. Audiences engage in discussion online about the ways in which the film showcased a traumatic character death that left a lasting impression into adulthood, but the image referenced in these discussions offers more to researchers than mere words. Using a widely circulated audience-produced image of Bambi’s mother’s death, the following paper connects the symbolic elements within the image to larger cultural ideologies and assumptions about death and trauma. In doing so, it demonstrates how audiences communicate through visual medium the trauma of viewing animated death.
Interpreting Suicide Notes: A Tripartite Method
Authors: French Michael
Published: May 2023

This paper will present a new method of interpreting suicide notes. It will begin with a discussion of the limitations of interpreting suicide notes. The paper will then clarify the purpose of interpretation as attempt at communication and how to understand the suicide note as an object of interpretation. This is followed by introduction of three traditional methods of interpretation: the pluralist, intentionalist, and psychoanalytic methods. Each suicide note is then interpreted using the appropriate method. The paper culminates in presenting a method to interpret suicide notes as a form of self-narration. This interpretation is done by using a tripartite method which combines the three previous methods as a way of focusing on the author’s self-narration. The paper culminates in demonstrating the tripartite method and shows its effectiveness in elucidating the role of self-narrative in the suicide note.
Optimization of urban emergency support material distribution under major public health emergencies based on improved sparrow search algorithm
Authors: Pan Nan , Ye Xiao , Cao Jianing , Zhang Jingcheng , Han Yuhang , He Zhaolei
Published: May 2023

The outbreak of major public health emergencies such as the coronavirus epidemic has put forward new requirements for urban emergency management procedures. Accuracy and effective distribution model of emergency support materials, as an effective tool to inhibit the deterioration of the public health sector, have gradually become a research hotspot. The distribution of urban emergency support devices, under the secondary supply chain structure of “material transfer center-demand point,” which may involve confusing demands, is studied to determine the actual situation of fuzzy requests under the impact of an epidemic outbreak. An optimization model of urban emergency support material distribution, based on Credibility theory, is first constructed. Then an improved sparrow search algorithm, ISSA, was designed by introducing Sobol sequence, Cauchy variation and bird swarm algorithm into the structure of the classical SSA. In addition, numerical validation and standard test set validation were carried out and the experimental results showed that the introduced improved strategy effectively improved the global search capability of the algorithm. Furthermore, simulation experiments are conducted, based on Shanghai, and the comparison with existing cutting-edge algorithms shows that the designed algorithm has stronger superiority and robustness. And the simulation results show that the designed algorithm can reduce vehicle cost by 4.83%, time cost by 13.80%, etc. compared to other algorithms. Finally, the impact of preference value on the distribution of emergency support materials is analyzed to help decision-makers to develop reasonable and effective distribution strategies according to the impact of major public health emergencies. The results of the study provide a practical reference for the solution of urban emergency support materials distribution problems.
Effortless residual adhesive removal: A simple method
Authors: Saha Bipasa , Ansari Reyaz , Prakash Krishna , De Utpal
Published: May 2023

The cheaper surgical dressings often leave residual adhesive, which can be unsightly and uncomfortable. We describe a simple and cost-effective procedure for removing adhesive residue using micropore tape. This technique can be easily performed by anyone, including the patients themselves.
Chattering suppression and hydrodynamic disturbance estimation of underwater manipulators using adaptive fuzzy sliding mode control
Authors: Zhang Mingquan , Song Guangming , Mao Juzheng , Wang Fei , Zhou Jun , Song Aiguo
Published: May 2023

Robotic manipulators are nowadays widely used in various underwater scenarios, but their motion control remains a challenging task due to hydrodynamic effects. This article proposes a novel adaptive fuzzy sliding mode control (AFSMC) strategy for precise and robust control of underwater manipulators. To simulate the movement of the robotic manipulators in the underwater environment, the Unified Robot Description Format (URDF) file of a custom-designed electric underwater manipulator is imported into the Simscape Multibody and the hydrodynamic disturbance is modeled according to Morison’s equation. Furthermore, the proposed control strategy takes advantage of the universal approximation capability of fuzzy systems to avoid chattering and observe disturbances by adjusting the control gains of classical sliding mode control (CSMC). And adaptive laws are designed to update the parameters of the fuzzy systems. The strong friction caused by the seal is also compensated by actual test data. In the simulation experiments, a special environment of water flow and variable loads is considered. The results demonstrate that the AFSMC strategy can achieve high precision and strong robustness against disturbances for trajectory tracking. More importantly, the chattering caused by CSMC can be eliminated and the hydrodynamic disturbance can be estimated with high precision through the proposed control strategy.
Topic maintenance in social conversation: What children need to learn and evidence this can be taught
Authors: Abbot-Smith Kirsten , Dockrell Julie , Sturrock Alexandra , Matthews Danielle , Wilson Charlotte
Published: May 2023

Individual differences in children’s social communication have been shown to mediate the relationship between poor vocabulary or grammar and behavioural difficulties. Moreover, there is increasing evidence that social communication skills predict difficulties with peers over and above vocabulary and grammar scores. The essential social communicative skills needed to maintain positive peer relationships revolve around conversation. Children with weaker conversation skills are less likely to make and maintain friendships. While helping all children to participate actively in collaborative conversations is part of school curricula, evidence-based training on how to achieve this is rarely provided for teachers. In this review, we first provide an overview of the key components of conversation skills and the cognitive abilities required to maintain them. We then present a narrative review of randomised controlled trials and experimental studies that either trained child conversation skills or included conversation skills in both training and outcome measures. Most of the studies focussed on training conversational ability in autistic children. The general finding was that verbally fluent autistic children improve following conversation training on blind-assessed reciprocal conversational ability. Only two studies were found that trained conversation skills in typically developing children with adequate controls and outcome measures, which directly assessed conversational proficiency. Both studies focussed on typically developing children who, at baseline, were in the weaker third of the mainstream classroom. Importantly, training not only improved the conversational ability of these children, it also improved their rates of lunchtime interaction with peers and their peer popularity ratings. We argue that there is considerable potential for supporting conversation skills in the classroom as a universal or Tier 1 intervention. Future research should explore whether conversation skills training would benefit the whole classroom.
Drainage Tube Placement for the Management of Rebleeding After Vascular Embolization in a Patient With Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Kojima Takashi , Suzuki Yo , Ohba Shinichi , Matsumoto Fumihiko
Published: May 2023

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1), a hereditary disease caused by a mutation of a gene on chromosome 17q11.2, is associated with manifestations in several organs. Although infrequent, vascular abnormalities are a complication of NF-1, and they are the second most common cause of death in patients with NF-1. Repairing the nutrient artery and achieving hemostasis are difficult once the artery has failed, thereby resulting in poor treatment outcomes. Herein, we report a case of a patient with NF-1 who presented with an enormous cervical hematoma caused by bleeding from a branch of the external carotid artery. Vascular embolization was performed initially; however, rebleeding from the embolized site occurred. Following the removal of the hematoma, drainage tube placement was effective in preventing micro-bleeding. Thus, drainage tube placement may be an effective treatment option in patients with rebleeding.
Arranging Golden Goodbyes for Executive Exits: A Review and Agenda for Severance Pay
Authors: Callahan Conor
Published: May 2023

While firms compensate executives in many ways, severance pay is perhaps the most controversial yet least understood form of executive compensation. In this study, we outline a review and agenda for severance pay owed if an executive is dismissed without cause from their role. Following changes to the disclosure of executive compensation in 2006, researchers have taken a renewed interest in studying executive severance pay. The current literature on this topic, however, has evolved along loosely connected research streams across multiple disciplines. This lack of integration presents a challenge for management scholars seeking to advance our knowledge of this important form of compensation. To address this issue, we provide an interdisciplinary review, incorporating recent studies that have taken advantage of the increased transparency of severance pay. Our review clarifies key differences between severance and other forms of executive pay and organizes prior studies along three main areas of research to draw conclusions about the current literature on this form of compensation. We also outline an agenda for future research, drawing upon several literatures that are key to management research—agency theory, managerial power theory, upper echelons theory, stakeholder theory, impression management theory, and the executive labor market. By integrating perspectives that, while less common in related fields, are central to management research, we provide unique insights for future research. Finally, we discuss key methodological issues, including data accuracy, measurement consistency, and analytical approaches, and how these can be addressed moving forward.
Blood protection of autologous platelet-rich plasma in long-time aortic root reconstruction: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyu , Xu Lingfeng , Chang Xin , Sun Lin , Guo Zhen
Published: May 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the blood protective effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma in aortic root reconstruction under longtime cardiopulmonary bypass.

Method

Patients who underwent aortic root reconstruction between August 2018 and August 2022 were included and divided into experimental and control groups according to whether autologous platelet-rich plasmapheresis was used or not. The experimental group included 112 patients (90 males aged 39.00 [28.75–49.00] years), and the control group included 112 patients (90 males aged 37.00 [27.00–46.25] years). The clinical data for example EuroSCORE II cardiovascular surgery risk score, blood routine and other indicators were collected from the two groups.

Results

The transfusion volume of allogeneic red blood cells in the experimental group (52 cases without blood transfusion, 23 cases with 1–2 units, 15 cases with 3–4 units, and 22 cases with 5 units and above) was significantly lower than that in the control group (32 cases without transfusion, 34 cases with 1–2 units, 22 cases with 3–4 units, and 24 cases with 5 units or more) (Z = −2.06, p < 0.05). Resternotomy/thoracotomy occurred in 11 cases (9.8%) in the experimental group and 23 cases (20.5%) in the control group (RR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.1–5.14, p < 0.05). The number of bleeding events in the experimental group (18 cases, 16.1%) was significantly less than that in the control group (33 cases, 29.5%) (RR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.14–4.17, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The application of autologous platelet-rich plasma in a long-time cardiopulmonary bypass aortic root reconstruction can reduce the amount of allogeneic blood transfusion and the occurrence of bleeding events, which is beneficial for blood protection.
Lung iodine mapping images of acute postpartum dyspnea without pulmonary thromboembolism using dual-energy CT
Authors: Okada Munemasa , Nomura Takafumi , Kunihiro Yoshie , Takegami Kazuki , Uehara Takuya , Tokurei Shogo
Published: May 2023

Background

Postpartum dyspnea is commonly observed, but its cause is often unknown.

Purpose

To investigate postpartum dyspnea, we compared lung iodine mapping (LIM) using dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) between postpartum women and women suspected of having pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE).

Material and Methods

In this retrospective study, 109 women of reproductive age (50 postpartum women, 59 women unrelated to pregnancy) underwent DECT between March 2009 and August 2020. Among the postpartum women, 23 patients were excluded due to late-onset dyspnea (n=20: >48 h after delivery) or the presence of PTE (n=3). A total of 86 patients were divided into three groups (27 postpartum women [postpartum group], 19 women with PTE [PTE group], and 40 women without PTE [non-PTE group]). Quantitation was applied to a decreased LIM value (LIM5; defined as <5 HU) and the relative value of LIM5 to whole LIM volume (%LIM5). LIM defects were classified into five patterns (0 = none, 1 = wedge-shaped, 2 = reticular/liner, 3 = diffuse granular/patchy, 4 = massive defects) based on a consensus between two readers.

Results

There were significant differences in the LIM5 and %LIM5 values among the three groups. The LIM5 and %LIM5 were largest in the PTE group, and postpartum women showed intermediate values between the non-PTE and PTE groups. Wedge-shaped defects were prominent in the PTE group, and diffuse granular/patchy defect was a typical feature in the postpartum group.

Conclusion

Postpartum women with dyspnea showed granular/patchy defects on DECT with a median quantitative value between the PTE and non-PTE groups.
Is Peer Influence Gender and Age Specific? Findings From a Sample of Justice-Involved Individuals
Authors: Liu Lin
Published: May 2023

Peer influence is generally understood to be one of the primary predictors of crime and delinquency. It is unclear, however, whether the mechanism that connects peer association, endorsement of deviant values, and delinquent behavior applies equally across different age and sex groups. This study examined age- and gender-specific susceptibility to delinquent and prosocial peer influence using a sample of justice-involved individuals. Based on multigroup structural equation modeling, the author found the nexus among peer association, endorsement of deviant values, and violent delinquency varied across gender and age groups. Among adult male respondents, delinquent peers strengthened deviant culture whereas prosocial peers inhibited that culture. Among juvenile respondents, deviant culture was not inhibited by relationships with prosocial peers. The results for adult females showed no significant influence by either delinquent or prosocial peers.
Examining Socioeconomic and Physiological Factors Affecting Preferences for Cycling Infrastructure Using Virtual Reality Experimentation
Authors: Saglio Andrea , Robartes Erin , Chen T. Donna , Heydarian Arsalan , Guo Xiang , Angulo Austin Valentine
Published: May 2023

Understanding cyclist behaviors and preferences is critical to improve safety and increase mode share. However, real-world cycling data is scarce and on-road testing presents safety concerns. This study presents a novel way of studying cyclists’ perceptions of bicycle infrastructure design alternatives using immersive virtual environments modeled after a real-world corridor, and a previously validated bike simulator at the University of Virginia, U.S. Three infrastructure scenarios were tested: sharing lanes with motor vehicles marked with sharrows (with no bike lane), a separated bike lane, and a protected bike lane with flexible delineators. Surveys elicited data on participants’ preferences and perceptions of safety, as well as demographic and socioeconomic data. Smartwatches collected heart rate (HR) data. A multinomial logit model examined the relationship between sociodemographic and physiological variables and preferences for bicycle infrastructure. Results suggest gender, age, and abrupt changes in HR affect cyclists’ preferences for bike infrastructure design. Overall, gender emerges as the most practically significant predictor variable for bicycle infrastructure preference, with men more likely to prefer sharrows and women more likely to prefer protected bike lanes. Exploratory analysis also suggests that bicyclists who self-identified as “strong and fearless” were more likely to choose sharrows as the preferred design, while bicyclists who self-identified as “interested but concerned” more often chose the protected bike lane. These results highlight the importance of understanding preferences of not just current cyclists, but potential future cyclists. Virtual reality simulation offers a low-cost, safe, and efficient method to understand preferences of individuals interested but not yet choosing cycling as a mode.
Extended Weight Systems Pavement Analysis
Authors: Marks P. Gayle , Wilcoxson Jon , Gibson Bryan
Published: May 2023

Kentucky established its Extended Weight Coal or Coal By-products Haul Road System (EWCHRS) in 1986. This road network includes segments of the Coal Haul Highway System on which more than 50,000 tons of coal or coal byproducts were transported by motor vehicles during the previous calendar year. In the last few years, the state has introduced extended weight (EW) systems that focus on petroleum products and metal commodities. Trucks can operate above posted weight limits on these networks by paying an annual fee ranging from $160 to 2,000. Although EW networks benefit motor carriers by improving efficiency, vehicles that exceed the weight limits can damage pavement and reduce its service life. This study examined the relationship between pavement age and condition on EWCHRS and non-EWCHRS routes to understand the implications of EW networks for infrastructure life-cycles. Using data from 2008 through 2020 (with the exception of 2016) to perform regression analysis, researchers found routes that spent at least 20% of the study period on the EWCHRS saw pavement life decline by 1.4 to 2 years over an average 12-year life cycle. In general, a positive correlation was observed between exposure on the EWCHRS and loss of pavement life, which can increase maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation costs.
Preserving the Semitendinosus Distal Attachment Is Associated With Improved Graft Remodeling After ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Vari Nicolas , Marot Vincent , Ripoll Thomas , Vieira Thais Dutra , Martinel Vincent , Bérard Emilie , Cavaignac Etienne
Published: May 2023

Background:

The semitendinosus (ST) tendon can be used by itself as a graft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. An increasing number of these procedures are being done while preserving the ST's tibial attachment, but there are no data on the remodeling of an attached ST (aST) graft.

Purpose:

To compare graft remodeling on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at 1 year after ACL reconstruction between standard free ST graft and aST graft.

Study design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This prospective study enrolled 180 patients who were undergoing ACL reconstruction: 90 with the ST graft and 90 with the aST graft. The analysis was performed 1 year after the surgery. The main endpoint was the signal-to-noise quotient (SNQ) on MRI scans (T1-weighted sequence). The secondary endpoints were tibial tunnel widening (TTW), graft maturation (Howell classification), retear rate, new surgery rate, Simple Knee Value, Lysholm score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, postoperative Tegner score, difference between pre- and postoperative Tegner scores, ACL–Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI), return-to-sports rate, and time to return to sports.

Results:

The mean adjusted SNQ was 1.18 (95% CI, 0.72-1.65) in the aST group and 3.88 (95% CI, 3.42-4.34) in the ST group ( P < .001). The new surgery rate was 2.2% in the aST group and 10% in the ST group ( P = .029). The median Lysholm score was significantly higher in the aST group (99; interquartile range [IQR], 95-100) than in the ST group (95; IQR, 91-99) ( P = .004). The mean time to return to sports was significantly shorter in the aST group (248.73 ± 141.62 days) than the ST group (317.23 ± 144.69 days) ( P = .002). No statistically significant difference was found between groups in the TTW ( P = .503), Howell graft maturity grade ( P = .149), retear rate ( P > .999), Simple Knee Value ( P = .061), postoperative Tegner score ( P = .320), pre- to postoperative difference in Tegner score ( P = .317), ACL-RSI ( P = .097), IKDC score ( P = .621), and return-to-sports rate ( P > .999).

Conclusion:

At 1 year postoperatively, remodeling of an ST graft assessed using MRI is better when its distal attachment is left intact.
Transitions in Social Networks From Young-Old to Old-Old Stage of Life Using Latent Transition Analysis
Authors: Min Se Hee , Lee Chiyoung , Scroggins Jihye Kim , Yang Qing
Published: May 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to identify the different types of social networks among young-old adults, and to examine the transitions in social networks as they become old-old adults. Methods: This is a secondary data analysis using the longitudinal data ( N = 1092) from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project. Latent class analysis was conducted to identify optimal number of classes and latent transition analysis was conducted to examine the transition probabilities. Results: Young-old adults in Class 1: family-oriented, social (close, external) transitioned into Class 2: family-oriented, non-social over time. In contrast, young-old adults in Class 2: family-oriented, non-social and Class 3: less family-oriented, social (close) were less likely to transition to another class. Conclusion: Older adults engaged in less social activities over time. Older adults should be encouraged to continue their social engagement with close social network of friends and relatives, and to maintain their relationship with family members.
Farewell diesel: On the way to climate neutrality using alternative drives and fuels in rail passenger service and rail transport
Authors: Fischer Tobias , Reinold Sittipan , Lichtenberg Mario , Sahba Marc-Andre
Published: May 2023

The biggest challenge facing society is climate protection, so Deutsche Bahn is also planning to become climate-neutral by 2040 – but implementing this is a mammoth task that must and can be tackled today! The electrification of a line from diesel to electric vehicles provides allows for more cost-effective railway operation. However as long as major gaps in the non-electrified network are missing, it will be difficult to achieve further modal shifts to rail and thus to reach climate targets. Alternative drive technologies to achieve climate neutrality are largely available in or scalable for the rail sector: Besides classic alternative drive technologies, such as battery and fuel cell new innovative solutions such as alternative fuels, hydrogen engines and ammonia engines will enrich the market and create new possibilities especially for existing vehicles. There is not one technology that can be used in all applications; each diesel replacement technology has its specific applications and limitations. The remaining 17 years until 2040 are very ambitious, and the challenging economic viability of 'green' measures continues to be the biggest obstacle.