bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the role of inflammatory blood markers in predicting the pathological response after neoadjuvant chemoradiation in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Manoochehry Shahram , Rasouli Hamid Reza , Ahmadpour Fathollah , Keramati Alireza
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the role of inflammatory blood markers in predicting the pathological response rate after neoadjuvant chemoradiation (neo-CRT) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, we analyzed the data of patients with LARC who underwent neo-CRT and surgical removal of the rectal mass between 2020 and 2022 in a tertiary medical center. Patients were examined weekly during chemoradiation and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and systemic immune inflammation index (SII) were calculated from weekly laboratory data. Wilcoxon signed-ranks and logistic regression analysis were utilized to determine whether any laboratory parameters during different time point assessments or their relative changes could predict the tumor response based on a permanent pathology review. Results: Thirty-four patients were recruited for the study. Eighteen patients (53%) achieved good pathologic response. Statistical analysis by Wilcoxon signed-ranks method indicated significant rises in NLR, PLR, MLR, and SII on weekly assessments during chemoradiation. Having an NLR over 3.21 during chemoradiation was correlated with the response on a Pearson chi-squared test (p = 0.04). Also, a significant correlation was found between the PLR ratio over 1.8 and the response (p = 0.02). NLR ratio over 1.82 marginally missed a significant correlation with the response (p = 0.13). On multivariate analysis, a PLR ratio over 1.8 showed a trend for response (odds ratio = 10.4; 95% confidence interval, 0.9–123; p = 0.06).Conclusion: In this study, PLR ratio as an inflammatory marker showed a trend in the prediction of response in permanent pathology to neo-CRT.
Insect collecting bias in Arizona with a preliminary checklist of the beetles from the Sand Tank Mountains
Authors: Johnston M. Andrew , Waite Evan , Wright Ethan , Reily Brian , De Leon Gilma , Esquivel Angela , Kerwin Jacob , Salazar Maria , Sarmiento Emiliano , Thiatmaja Tommy , Lee Sangmi , Yule Kelsey , Franz Nico
Published: June 2023

The State of Arizona in the south-western United States supports a high diversity of insects. Digitised occurrence records, especially from preserved specimens in natural history collections, are an important and growing resource to understand biodiversity and biogeography. Underlying bias in how insects are collected and what that means for interpreting patterns of insect diversity is largely untested. To explore the effects of insect collecting bias in Arizona, the State was regionalised into specific areas. First, the entire State was divided into broad biogeographic areas by ecoregion. Second, the 81 tallest mountain ranges were mapped on to the State. The distribution of digitised records across these areas were then examined.

A case study of surveying the beetles (Insecta, Coleoptera) of the Sand Tank Mountains is presented. The Sand Tanks are a low-elevation range in the Lower Colorado River Basin subregion of the Sonoran Desert from which a single beetle record was published before this study.

The number of occurrence records and collecting events are very unevenly distributed throughout Arizona and do not strongly correlate with the geographic size of areas. Species richness is estimated for regions in Arizona using rarefaction and extrapolation. Digitised records from the disproportionately highly collected areas in Arizona represent at best 70% the total insect diversity within them. We report a total of 141 species of Coleoptera from the Sand Tank Mountains, based on 914 digitised voucher specimens. These specimens add important new records for taxa that were previously unavailable in digitised data and highlight important biogeographic ranges.

Possible underlying mechanisms causing bias are discussed and recommendations are made for future targeted collecting of under-sampled regions. Insect species diversity is apparently at best 70% documented for the State of Arizona with many thousands of species not yet recorded. The Chiricahua Mountains are the most densely sampled region of Arizona and likely contain at least 2,000 species not yet vouchered in online data. Preliminary estimates for species richness of Arizona are at least 21,000 and likely much higher. Limitations to analyses are discussed which highlight the strong need for more insect occurrence data.
A concise review of flow cytometric methods for minimal residual disease assessment in childhood B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Baldzhieva Alexandra , Burnusuzov Hasan A. , Murdjeva Mariana A. , Dimcheva Teodora D. , Taskov Hristo B.
Published: June 2023

Minimal residual disease refers to a leukemia cell population that is resistant to chemotherapy or radiotherapy and leads to disease relapse. The assessment of MRD is crucial for making an accurate prognosis of the disease and for the choice of optimal treatment strategy. Here, we review the advantages and disadvantages of the available genetic and phenotypic methods and focus on the multiparametric flow cytometry as a promising method with greater sensitivity, speed, and standardization options. In addition, we discuss how the application of automated data analysis outweighs the use of complex combinations of windows and gates in classical analysis, thus eliminating subjective evaluation.
Advanced heart failure: a contemporary approach
Authors: Chun Kyeong-Hyeon , Kang Seok-Min
Published: June 2023

Advanced heart failure (HF) is defined as the persistence of severe symptoms despite the use of optimized medical, surgical, and device therapies. These patients require timely advanced treatments, such as heart transplantation or long-term mechanical circulatory support (MCS). Inotropic agents are often used to reduce congestion and increase cardiac output, while renal replacement therapy may be beneficial if necessary. Cardiac resynchronization therapy has clear benefits in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction, particularly with left bundle branch block (QRS duration > 130 ms). The role of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators in advanced HF patients requires further investigation considering the introduction of novel HF medications. In selected patients with significant secondary mitral regurgitation, transcatheter edge-to-edge repair can help delay heart transplantation or long-term MCS. In later stages, the appropriateness of heart transplantation should be evaluated, and the use of short- or long-term MCS may be considered. A multidisciplinary HF management program is crucial for patients with advanced HF. Recent treatment advances, including drugs, devices, and MCS, have broadened the options available to patients with advanced HF and this trend is expected to continue.
Demand forecasting using a hybrid model based on artificial neural networks: A study case on electrical products
Authors: Quiñones Hector , Rubiano Oscar , Alfonso Wilfredo
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This work aims to evaluate demand forecasting models to determine if using exogenous factors and machine learning techniques helps improve performance compared to univariate statistical models, allowing manufacturing companies to manage demand better.Design/methodology/approach: We implemented a multivariate Auto-Regressive Moving Average with eXogenous input (ARMAX) statistical model and a Neural Network-ARMAX (NN-ARMAX) hybrid model for forecasting. Later, we compared both to a standard univariate statistical model to forecast the demand for electrical products in a Colombian manufacturing company.Findings: The outcomes demonstrated that the NN-ARMAX model outperformed the other two. Indeed, demand management improved with the reduction of overstock and out-of-stock products.Research limitations/implications: The findings and conclusions in this work are limited to Colombian manufacturing companies that sell electrical products to the construction industry. Moreover, the experts from the company that provided us with the data also selected the external factors based on their own experiences, i.e., we might have disregarded potential factors.Practical implications: This work suggests that a model using neural networks and including exogenous variables can improve demand forecasting accuracy, promoting this approach in manufacturing companies dealing with demand planning issues.Originality/value: The findings in this work demonstrate the convenience of using the proposed hybrid model to improve demand forecasting accuracy and thus provide a reliable basis for its implementation in supply chain planning for the electrical/construction sector in Colombian manufacturing companies.
An empirical study of emerging digital culture and digital attitudes in an established company
Authors: Fahmi Tubagus Arief , Tjakraatmadja Jann Hidajat , Ginting Henndy
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This study intends to uncover factors that can accelerate digital transformation in established companies. This study examines the relationship between generic culture, digital culture, digital literacy, attitudes to change and perceived performance in digital transformation.Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a questionnaire with 383 employees. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM).Findings: This study shows that digital culture, legacy culture, and digital literacy significantly influence employee attitudes towards digital transformation and perceived performance. Additionally, digital literacy mediates the relationship between digital culture and employee attitudes towards digital transformation. Furthermore, employee attitudes towards digital transformation significantly impact their perceived performance.Research limitations/implications: Generalizability may be necessary given the case study approach's small sample size. Hence, more research is required to collect more representative samples.Practical implications: This study contributes to literature by providing empirical evidence on the importance of digital culture, legacy culture, and digital literacy for successful attitudes towards digital transformation. The findings of this study can be used to develop strategies for organizations undergoing digital transformation. A well-defined business culture supporting digital transformation is critical. Organizations should encourage employees to adapt and become accustomed to an innovative environment to boost performance. Accelerating digital transformation can also be done by enhancing digital technology competence and refining employees' attitudes toward digital transformation in the internalization process.Originality/value: Most studies have neglected the dynamic role of corporate culture in accomplishing digital transformation in favour of focusing more on technology. This study thus intends to fill this gap by uncovering how corporate culture and the employees' readiness can drive digital transformation.
Factors Influencing RNs' Intention to Stay in Nursing Homes: Multilevel Modeling Approach
Authors: Choi Sunyeob , Lee Jiyeon
Published: June 2023

The current study investigated factors that influence the intention to stay (ITS) of RNs working in South Korean nursing homes (NHs). Thirty-six questionnaire responses from organizational NHs and 101 from individual RNs were analyzed using multilevel regression analysis. At the individual level, RNs' ITS increased with years of work at their current NH, and that of RNs who received emergency calls to work at night was lower than that of RNs with fixed night shifts. At the organizational level, ITS was higher when the ratios of RNs to residents and RNs to nursing staff were higher. To improve ITS, NHs should consider adopting mandatory deployment of RNs, increasing their RN to resident ratios, and implementing a fixed night shift RN system, wherein night shift working hours count as twice the daytime hours, and night shift is voluntary. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49
(7), 40–48.]
Factors Influencing Professional Identity of Psychiatric Nurses as Second Victims: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Yuling , Zheng Kexin , Fang Chongfang , Cao Shan , Liu Dongling
Published: June 2023

The current study aimed to explore the status and influencing factors of professional identity among psychiatric nurses as second victims in China by using a cross-sectional design. We investigated 291 psychiatric nurses from two psychiatric hospitals. Participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire, Second Victim Experience and Support Scale, Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, and Professional Identity Scale for Nurses. Scores of professional identity of psychiatric nurses as second victims were moderate. Regression analysis showed that the second victim experience and support and internal control were significant predictors, explaining 34.2% of the variance in professional identity. Identifying risk factors related to the professional identity of psychiatric nurses as second victims will help managers take timely preventive measures to improve the awareness of the self-health responsibility of psychiatric nurses and reduce the adverse effects of patient safety incidents to enhance their professional identity. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61
(12), 47–54.]
Telephone-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Depression in Family Caregivers of Persons Living With Dementia: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Saito Yoshihiro , Shiraishi Yuko
Published: June 2023

The current study aimed to examine the usefulness of a telephone-based cognitive-behavioral therapy program for depression in 11 family caregivers of persons living with dementia. Data were collected and analyzed before (Session 1), after (Session 6), and at 3-month follow up using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview, General Self-Efficacy Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Self-Rating Depression Scale. Depression scores decreased significantly (
p
< 0.05) from Session 1 to Session 6. Results suggest that the program should address Proactivity of Action, a sub-item of self-efficacy, to reduce depression. In addition, the program enabled caregivers to reduce negative perceptions of their caregiving duty, which may lead to positive thinking and proactive behavior. Despite these findings, the program must be modified and research must continue, as this was a feasibility study with an intervention group only. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61
(12), 37–45.]
Mean-square consensus of a semi-Markov jump multi-agent system based on event-triggered stochastic sampling
Authors: Zhao Duoduo , Gao Fang , Cao Jinde , Li Xiaoxin , Ma Xiaoqin
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses on achieving leader-follower mean square consensus in semi-Markov jump multi-agent systems. To effectively reduce communication costs and control updates, we propose an event-triggered protocol based on stochastic sampling. The stochastic sampling interval randomly switches between finite given values, while the event-triggered function depends on the stochastic sampled data from neighboring agents. Using the event-triggered strategy, we present sufficient conditions to ensure mean square consensus. Finally, we provide a numerical example demonstrating the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
García Cárcel, Ricardo y Eliseo Serrano (eds.): Historia de la tolerancia en España, Cátedra, Madrid, 2021, 421 págs. ISBN: 978-84-376-4258-1.
Authors: Quiles Albero David
Published: June 2023

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L'homme-nation
Authors: Colantonio Laurent
Published: June 2023

Daniel O’Connell, désigné comme le « Libérateur » par ses compatriotes pour lesquels il personnifiait la dignité retrouvée, a transformé le nationalisme irlandais et bousculé l’ordre politique au Royaume-Uni dans la première moitié du xixe siècle. Il « s’est incarné un peuple », écrivait de lui Balzac. Orateur charismatique, il s’est distingué comme fer de lance d’une agitation populaire inédite et comme député à Westminster, à la pointe du combat contre l’esclavage. Il est aussi devenu une référence sur la scène internationale, alors que l’Irlande faisait figure de laboratoire de la modernité démocratique. Son parcours éclaire la riche expérience de mobilisation collective qui a rendu les catholiques irlandais acteurs de la conquête pacifique de nouveaux espaces du politique. Ce « moment O’Connell » de l’histoire irlandaise offre une mise en perspective des débats actuels sur l’incarnation en politique, à l’heure de la crise de la démocratie représentative et de la montée des populismes.
Les pratiques de la veille à l’aune des pratiques informationnelles des étudiants : évolution d’une pratique « bricolée »
Authors: Boumhaouad Hatim
Published: June 2023

L’article présente les résultats d’une recherche portant sur les pratiques de veille informationnelle d’étudiants inscrits en sciences de l’information et de la communication (SIC) à l’université de Lorraine. Elle a pour objectif d’interroger leur rapport à la veille, à la fois dans la sphère académique et dans la sphère privée. Les résultats montrent que leurs pratiques de veille sont évolutives en fonction des outils étudiés pendant leur formation universitaire et de leur disponibilité en ligne. Nous interrogeons également le lien entre leurs pratiques personnelles et académiques dans le domaine de la veille.
Étude exploratoire des pratiques de veille des professionnels des bibliothèques universitaires
Authors: Slouma Maher , Pébayle Emmanuelle Chevry
Published: June 2023

Cet article vise à étudier les pratiques de veille exercées par les professionnels des bibliothèques universitaires. Pour ce faire, nous avons recueilli des témoignages des bibliothécaires chargés de veille que nous avons identifiés à l’aide d’une observation non participante en ligne. Les résultats se répartissent sur quatre thèmes complémentaires : (1) d’abord, les bibliothécaires ont une conception de la veille liée au contexte d’application de cette activité dans leurs établissements ; (2) ensuite, la veille pratiquée par les bibliothécaires est plutôt une veille informationnelle issue majoritairement d’initiatives individuelles et qui consiste à surveiller l’environnement informationnel des bibliothèques sans objectifs précis, ni une véritable exploitation des résultats obtenus ; (3) concernant les pratiques de veille et leur évolution, les avis sont mitigés : alors que certains attribuent cette évolution à l’évolution de leurs besoins informationnels, d’autres la renvoient à l’évolution des outils ; (4) enfin, les bibliothécaires déplorent un manque de formation régulière et une absence d’intégration de l’activité de veille dans une stratégie globale dans les bibliothèques.
L’introduction de l’hybridation en formation infirmière comme révélatrice des conditions du développement des formateurs
Authors: Policard Florence , Neuville Emmanuelle , Sacre Margault , Petit Sabine , Paulet Cathy , Toczek-Capelle Marie-Christine , Serres Guillaume
Published: June 2023

La formation infirmière, à l’instar des formations du supérieur, a opéré un virage numérique, articulant des phases en présentiel et à distance, le tout « soutenu » par un environnement technopédagogique de plus en plus performant mais aussi potentiellement déroutant. Notre étude vise à mettre en lumière la manière dont les formateurs de six instituts de formation en soins infirmiers ont composé avec l’introduction de cette hybridation. C’est par le prisme de l’expérience des formateurs et par celui de la caractérisation de l’hybridation que le développement professionnel est approché. L’étude révèle ce qui, pour ces formateurs, est le cœur de métier. Elle souligne au travers de l’expression de leur vécu plusieurs freins et potentialités dans ce processus.
L’improvisation dans le travail enseignant, entre défiance et ressource
Authors: Lantheaume Françoise
Published: June 2023

Cet article traite de la place et du sens de l’improvisation dans le travail des enseignants en France en explorant un corpus d’entretiens sous l’angle de la sociologie pragmatique et de l’analyse de l’activité. La confrontation entre différents discours des enseignants et avec leurs pratiques montre que loin de la défiance généralement exprimée, l’improvisation prend plusieurs formes et peut représenter une ressource au service de l’enrichissement de la grammaire de l’activité, du genre et du style professionnel des enseignants.
Des contradictions au décrochage : récits de parcours en adaptation scolaire
Authors: Merri Maryvonne , Dubeau Annie
Published: June 2023

Cet article décrit les interprétations de leur expérience en adaptation scolaire au Québec de 18 jeunes adultes ayant décroché de l’école et rencontrés dans le cadre d’entretiens biographiques. Les contradictions exprimées sont analysées à trois étapes du parcours : au moment de l’orientation en adaptation scolaire, dans le rapport aux moyens mis en œuvre (cahiers, activités…) et au moment du décrochage final. À la suite de Yrjö Engeström, le dispositif scolaire est situé au sein d’un ensemble de systèmes d’activités. Quatre expressions des contradictions sont distinguées : le conflit, le conflit interne, le dilemme et la double contrainte. Les résultats présentent une dépréciation générale des dispositifs au moment de l’orientation, la perte de la valeur d’échange de l’activité scolaire, une injonction au rythme personnel comme double contrainte et la rareté des expériences d’agentivité à l’école et dans le décrochage final. Enfin, les participants des classes pour « difficulté comportementale » se caractérisent par une critique de l’exclusion et de la segmentation des publics scolaires.
Édito - Description des vécus et interpellation des acteurs. Nouvelles improvisations à venir
Authors: Daguzon Marc , Moussay Sylvie
Published: June 2023

Ce numéro de la revue Recherches en éducation explore la notion de développement professionnel de manière critique. Il entend marquer le pas d’une époque en mutation. Il s’agit d’actualiser l’utilité de cette notion. Pour profiler des perspectives et des positionnements scientifiques renouvelés, il était important de décrire, finement, les stratégies d’implication sur les terrains comme d’impulser des travaux prometteurs. L’intérêt est d’armer ainsi les jeunes chercheurs pour continuer à innover en sciences de l’éducation et de la formation, sur des bases d’études à la fois contextuelles, datées mais en lien avec l’historique de diffusion de cette notion : le développement professionnel, qu’est-ce que c’est ? La question des liens productifs entre recherche et formation est ainsi clairement interpellée dans ce numéro. Outre les besoins de définition et d’assise pour comprendre ce que désigne le développement professionnel qui ouvre le numéro, les huit articles qui composent l’ensemble décrivent finement ce qui fait la subtilité des situations de travail observées parce que situées professionnellement. Les auteurs révèlent et relèvent en quoi chaque situation transforme le sujet, les collectifs, pointe plus ou moins de performativité, ce qui permet de dessiner une ligne de continuum reliant chaque métier aux activités situées : professer, vendre, soigner, former, etc. produit, à chaque fois, sa dynamique propre de développement professionnel, et permet aussi de dégager des transversalités.
Production of plant-based milk from local almond nuts (Terminalia catappa L.) and evaluation of its sensory and nutritional properties
Authors: Samarasinghe S. P. A. K. , Chandimala U. R. , Gunathilake D. M. C. C.
Published: June 2023

An experiment was conducted to investigate the possibility of making plant-based milk using Local Almond (Terminalia catappa L.) nuts. Harvested nuts were cleaned, shelled and, separated into two sets based on their maturity stage: well-ripened and mature-green. Local Almond nuts at both maturity stages were blanched and blended with water at a ratio of 1:2 (w/w), and two different plant-based milk samples were prepared as T1, from well-ripened and T2, from mature-green fruit kernels. The sensory evaluation of prepared kernel-based milk samples was conducted, occupying a panel of 30 semi-trained members using a five-point hedonic scale. The product’s appearance, odour, flavour, mouthfeel, and overall acceptability were tested and analyzed using the Friedman test. The proximate composition of the prepared plant-based milk samples was determined in triplicates, and the energy content of the milk samples was estimated based on their nutritional values and was compared with those of Cow’s milk. Data were analyzed using ANOVA procedures at a 5% significance level. Obtained sensory data revealed that among two milk samples, milk prepared from well-ripened Local Almond kernel (T1) was recorded as the best sample except for aroma for all organoleptic attributes. The proximate analysis found that the crude protein, crude fat and crude fiber content of both T1 and T2 Local Almond milk samples were higher than those of Cow’s milk. Among the samples, the T1 showed the highest crude fat content (13.30 ± 0.01%), whereas T2 showed the highest crude protein content (7.40 ± 0.00%). Carbohydrate content of both T1 (2.09± 0.00%) and T2 (1.20± 0.00%) was less than that of cow’s milk (4.80 ± 0.01%). The study suggests mixing milk extracted from mature green fruits and well-ripened fruit kernels to improve the final nutritional quality of Local Almond milk. This study reveals the requirement for further studies related to Local Almond kernel-based milk as a good source of plant-based milk and a potential substitute for Cow’s milk.
Investigation of Departure Transition Noise for Lift-plus-Cruise eVTOL Aircraft
Authors:   The Pennsylvania State University, Mukherjee Bhasker , Jue Andrew , Theron Jean-Pierre , Brentner Kenneth , Greenwood Eric , Horn Joseph
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the acoustics and performance during departure transition maneuvers for an eVTOL aircraft design of lift-plus-cruise configuration. A variable pitch lift rotor thrust control scheme with an airspeed-dependent schedule of rotor RPMs was used to fly the transition maneuvers. Parametric sweeps at different flight speeds were used to develop a schedule that would meet the goals of low noise and low power consumption. The aircraft forces and moments were studied throughout the departure transition maneuver and significant, unsymmetrical rotor-wing interaction occurred in the range of 40 - 70 knots. A change in the control mixer was found to reduce the impact of rotor-wing interactions on motor power consumption, improving the power margin and safety of the aircraft. Three departure transition maneuvers were studied to compare the power and energy required and the acoustic impact. First, a level acceleration maneuver prioritized airspeed gain; second, an axial climb maneuver prioritized altitude gain; and third a continuous climb maneuver was a combination of both strategies, as it accelerated and climbed at the same rate as the other two maneuvers. In general, it was observed that transitioning to wing-borne flight as quickly as possible reduced both acoustic impact and energy consumption during the departure maneuvers.
Design Exploration for Aerodynamic Performance of Hovering Stacked Rotor
Authors:   Seoul National University, Hong Yoonpyo ,   Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Kook Hyojin , Lee Sawoon , Yang Sunwoong , Yee Kwanjung
Published: June 2023

This study analyzed the aerodynamic performance and the underlying physics of various stacked rotor configurations under hovering conditions using a high-fidelity numerical solver. Three design variables, namely index angle, stacked distance, and pitch angle difference, were adopted to define the stacked rotor configurations. Accordingly, two dominant physical phenomena were captured by high-resolution simulations: the inflow effect and the wake interference effect. In particular, the blade-vortex interaction at the lower blade plays a crucial role in increasing the overall aerodynamic performance by generating upwash that increases the local power loading of the lower blade. Unsteady simulations demonstrated that the blade-vortex interaction of the stacked rotor generates a significantly lower peak-to-peak thrust value compared to the counter-rotating coaxial rotor, which may result in a much lower aeroacoustic noise level. Finally, design optimization to maximize inflow and wake effects was performed leveraging neural networks, successfully extracting design rules that can guide future preliminary design studies.
Comparison and Analysis of a Tiltrotor UAM Configuration by Using NDARC
Authors:   Seoul National University, Ahn ChiHyun , Cha WonSeok , Park SunHoo , Hwang MinHo , Chang YooHo , Shin SangJoon
Published: June 2023

For its high-speed cruise flight performance and vertical take-off and lift (VTOL) capability, tiltrotor configurations are being looked upon as the most reliable among the proposed eVTOLs. However, since UAM aircraft development is mainly led by industries, there are few studies that deal with the effect of rotor configuration as a major parameter within design of eVTOL. Therefore, this study aims to identify the effect of change in rotor configurations on eVTOL tiltrotor weight composition and mission performance, at conceptual design level. NASA Design and Analysis of Rotorcraft (NDARC), a rapid multi-disciplinary conceptual design program, will be utilized for the procedure. Three configurations based on NASA reference tiltrotor models will be presented, and optimal configuration in terms of weight and performance will be determined. In order to identify the reliability of such results, wing-nacelle structural analysis model will be constructed based on existing literature. By undergoing static structural and modal analyses, the model will be verified to be utilized for whirl flutter analysis.
Blade Shape Optimization of Rotors using Neural Networks
Authors:   Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Shalu Hrithwik ,   VTOL Analytics LLC, Sridharan Ananth ,   DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory, Singh Rajnesh , Govindarajan Bharath
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a methodology for using a neural network to predict airfoil behavior, for rapid airfoil design as well as prop-rotor blade and airfoil shape optimization. To train the neural network, reference airfoil shapes were obtained from the roughly 1600 airfoils in the UIUC airfoil database. The Class Shape Transformation approach is used to parameterize airfoil upper and lower surface geometries, using Chebyshev polynomials as shape functions. Three separate neural networks were trained, one each for lift, drag, and pitching moment. 'Truth' data is generated by conducting angle of attack sweeps with XFOIL on the various airfoils in the UIUC database. After training the neural network, isolated airfoil shape optimization was performed using the NSGA2 algorithm, targeting minimum average drag over an operating lift coefficient range for 10%, 12% and 16% thick airfoils. Additionally, prop-rotor aerodynamic optimization was carried out by designating airfoil shape parameters, blade twist distribution and blade chord distribution as simultaneous design variables for two objectives: hover figure of merit and cruise-mode propeller efficiency. A Blade Element Momentum Theory is used to predict rotor performance, using airfoil tables generated by the neural network. Pareto frontiers and an analysis of the resulting designs is presented. Using a neural network is advantageous for both applications, because it results in a roughly 40-fold speed-up over the XFOIL, while effectively decoupling the computational cost of shape optimization from that of the physics-based model generating truth data.
39th Annual Vertical Flight Society Student Design Competition - OLIHOPER
Authors:   Center for Mobility with Vertical Lift at Rensselaer - RPI, Team Olihoper
Published: June 2023

The successful implementation of eVTOL aircraft as a viable mode of future transportation hinges on the inclusion of all passengers, including those with disabilities either visible or hidden. To this end, the graduate design team from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute propose Oliwhoper, a lift + cruise multicopter universally designed for all passengers. Oliwhoper takes on a universal design approach, where accommodations for those with disabilities are used to enhance the ride experience for everyone. A spacious cabin with carefully designed lighting, hand-holds and audio cues makes it easy for anyone with mobility, visual or auditory challenges to safely and easily ride in comfort. These vehicle design features make Oliwhoper accessible to passengers with reduced mobility, allowing for operators to flexibly service customers in a variety of locations, without the need for specialized ground equipment. Operators will also enjoy Oliwhoper's efficient lift + cruise design which maximizes the performance advantages of distributed electric propulsion, while maintaining the redundancy and control authority expected from modern aircraft.
Henrich Focke's Lectures at the German Academy of Aeronautical Research 1937-1943
Authors:   German Aerospace Center (DLR), vanDerWall Berend ,   F. D. Harris and Associates, Harris Franklin
Published: June 2023

In the years 1937, 1942, and 1943 Henrich Focke gave three lectures at the German Academy of Aeronautical Research. The first lecture was about autogiro and helicopter problems in general and specifically the development of the Fw 61. The second lecture dealt with the prospect of rotating wing aircraft and some tests and use of the Fa 223 and the third lecture was about research and development of the Fa 223. The first lecture had been translated into English soon after its publication, but the translation lacked precision. The latter two lectures were classified as secret during wartime, and to both author's knowledge were not translated. A revision of the translation of the first lecture and a first-time translation of the other two has been published recently. The paper presents key aspects of the three lectures and the corresponding discussions and shows that Focke's development program already anticipated many of today's rotorcraft industry efforts.
From Aerodyne to Vectodyne: The Quest for the Optimum, High Speed VTOL Transport
Authors:   Future iNCITE!, Cowels Sundiata
Published: June 2023

Vertol Aircraft Corporation's Vectodyne concept (based on the theories of re-known aerospace engineer Dr. Alexander Lippisch and other lesser known inventors) was a tubular wing, dual contra-rotating, propeller driven aircraft design that never left the drawing board. It was created in answer to a 1956 U.S. Army request for unconventional VTOL Tactical Transport weight and performance proposals that would offer direction in the development of a new type of cargo aircraft that would potentially be deployed within the 1962-1965 timeframe. This paper will address the aerodyne origins of the Vectodyne, its strengths, weaknesses and dismissal, and finishing with the vindication flight of the propulsive technology behind its design via a single engine surveillance drone, ending with the question, "After fifty years of false starts, is the Vectodyne a viable concept with today's technology?"
Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2B (LGMD2B) Caused by Pathogenic Splice and Missense Variants of DYSF Gene Among Iranians with Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Arab Fatemeh , Ahangari Najmeh , Malek Hadis , Doosti Mohammad , Najarzadeh Torbati Paria , Ghayoor Karimiani Ehsan
Published: June 2023

Background:

The phenotypic range of limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) varies significantly because of genetic heterogeneity ranging from very mild to severe forms. Molecular analysis of the DYSF gene is challenging due to the wide range of mutations and associated complications in interpretations of novel DYSF variants with uncertain significance. Thus, in the current study, we performed the NGS analysis and its results are confirmed with Sanger sequencing to find the plausible disease-causing variants in patients with muscular dystrophy and their relatives via segregation analysis.

Materials and Methods:

Nine patients with LGMD type 2B (LGMD2B) characteristics were screened for putative mutations by the whole-exome sequencing (WES) test. Either the patients themselves or their parents and first relatives were investigated in the segregation analysis through Sanger sequencing. The majority of variants were classified as pathogenic through American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines, segregation results, and in silico predictions.

Results:

Results revealed eight variants in DYSF gene, including three splicing (c.1149+4A>G, c.2864+1G>A, and c.5785-7G>A), two nonsense (p.Gln112Ter and p.Trp2084Ter), two missense (p.Thr1546Pro and p.Tyr1032Cys), and one frameshift (p.Asp1067Ilefs), among nine Iranian families. One of the eight identified variants was novel, including p.Asp1067Ilefs, which was predicted to be likely pathogenic based on the ACMG guidelines. Notably, prediction tools suggested the damaging effects of studied variants on dysferlin structure.

Conclusion:

Conclusively, the current report introduced eight variants including a novel frameshift in DYSF gene with noticeable pathogenic effects. This study significantly can broaden the diagnostic spectrum of LGMD2B in combination with previous reports about DYSF mutations and may pave the way for a rapidly high-ranked identification of the accurate type of dysferlinopathy.
Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Group Psychoeducational Intervention in Reducing the Level of Cancer-Related Fatigue in Women Receiving Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sharbafchi Mohammad Reza , Malekian Azadeh , Ahmadzadeh Zahra , Torkian Samaneh , Baharizadeh Alireza , Zarean Elham
Published: June 2023

Background:

One of the most debilitating symptoms in breast cancer survivors is cancer-related fatigue (CRF). CRF weakens patients' physical, cognitive, and occupational functions. It is associated with poorer quality of life and may reduce recurrence-free and overall survival. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a group psychoeducational intervention in improving CRF in breast cancer patients.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty breast cancer patients who suffered from CRF were randomly assigned to receive a group psychoeducational intervention or control group. This study was designed as an eight weeks clinical trial. The psychoeducational intervention mainly consisted of concentrative movement therapy and energy conservation strategies. Primary outcome measures were the changes in the Fatigue Visual Analogue scale, Cancer Fatigue scale, and Piper Fatigue scale at the study endpoint. Measure assessments were made on four occasions: at baseline, after the intervention, one week, and four weeks post intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS26.

Results:

The intervention improved CRF significantly (P < 0.001). All subscales of the Cancer Fatigue scale and the sensory, affective, and cognitive subscales of the Piper Fatigue scale showed statistically significant effects (P < 0.001) at all time points. However, the behavioral subscale of the Piper Fatigue scale was different only at the end of the study (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

The group psychoeducational intervention improved CRF significantly. All the sensory, behavioral, physical, affective, and cognitive subscales improved. Accessible and confirmatory treatment can help patients to cope with fatigue in communities.
Clinical, Laboratory, Radiological, and Genetic Characteristics of Pediatric Patients with Alagille Syndrome
Authors: Isa Hasan M. , Alahmed Fawzeya A.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Alagille syndrome (ALGS) is an autosomal dominant disease caused by JAG1 or NOTCH2 mutation. It is diagnosed by the presence of three out of five features: characteristic facies, posterior embryotoxon, peripheral pulmonary stenosis, vertebral defects, and interlobular bile duct paucity. This study aimed to review the prevalence, clinical presentations, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of patients with ALGS.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective review of patients with ALGS at the Pediatric Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain, between August 1994 and October 2022. The diagnosis was based on clinical, laboratory, radiological, histopathological, and genetic findings.

Results:

Five patients were found to have ALGS. The prevalence of ALGS in Bahrain was 1.04 patients per 100,000 (0.001%). Four were Bahraini and three were females. Median birth weight was 2.3 (2.3–2.5) kg. All patients presented at the time of birth with low birth weight, cholestatic jaundice, clay-colored stool, heart murmur, and dysmorphic facial features. All had congenital heart diseases, two had butterfly vertebrae, and one had posterior embryotoxon. All had elevated liver enzymes and normal abdominal ultrasound. Three had positive hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan and one had bile duct paucity in liver biopsy. Three had intraoperative cholangiogram. Four were positive for JAG1 mutation. All received ursodeoxycholic acid and fat-soluble vitamins. Two required liver transplantation.

Conclusion:

ALGS is a rare disorder in Bahrain. Diagnosis is challenging as the disease can be associated with or misdiagnosed as biliary atresia. Patients with ALGS are at high risk of morbidity either by unnecessary intraoperative cholangiogram or unavoidable liver transplantation.
The Effect of Lieberman Community Return Program on Reducing Positive and Negative Symptoms and Improving Social Skills in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Emami Maryam , Kheirabadi Gholamreza , Fallahi Mona
Published: June 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Lieberman community return program on reducing positive and negative symptoms and improving social skills in people with schizophrenia.

Materials and Methods:

In this clinical trial study, 58 patients with schizophrenia were randomly allocated into two groups of 29. The first group received 16 sessions of Lieberman community return training and the second group received routine care as a control group. All patients were evaluated before intervention and 1 and 3 months after intervention using the Matson Social Skills Questionnaire and Negative and Positive Symptoms Assessment Scale and compared between the two groups.

Results:

Evaluation of negative symptoms showed that the dimensions of affective flattening, avolition, anhedonia–asociality, attention, and alogia in the intervention group decreased significantly over time (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was seen in the control group. The mean score of positive symptoms such as hallucinations, delusion, inappropriate affect, and formal thinking disorder in the intervention group were decreased significantly (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was seen in the control group. Appropriate social skills and overall skill score were increased significantly in the intervention group over time (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Lieberman community return program is likely to reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia and increase patients' social skills.
The reduced expression of trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 in primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma
Authors: Li Shu-Hao , Chiou* Chien-Chun , Chen* Chien-Chin
Published: June 2023

Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma (PCMC) is rare, and its carcinogenesis is unclear. Trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) is a key regulator in chromatin remodeling-controlled transcription. Focusing on the epigenetic mechanism, we aimed to investigate the expression of H3K27me3 in PCMC by immunohistochemistry. A retrospective cohort of PCMC patients from a tertiary hospital in Taiwan was enrolled to evaluate the clinicopathologic features, treatment outcome, and protein expression. Immunohistochemistry for H3K27me3 was performed on all PCMCs and a comparison group of colonic mucinous adenocarcinoma and pure mucinous carcinoma of the breast. The percentage of H3K27me3-negative tumor cells was calculated and analyzed. Three patients with PCMC were recruited. All PCMCs were solitary and slow growing, arising from the head-and-neck region. All PCMCs had tumor excision without local recurrence or metastasis. The loss of H3K27me3 expression was significant in PCMCs (mean ± standard deviation [SD]: 21.0% ± 6.6%) compared to other mucinous carcinomas (mean ± SD: 3.8% ± 1.7%) (P = 0.019). In conclusion, we report a reduction in H3K27me3 expression in PCMC. In contrast, H3K27me3 expression is retained or mildly reduced in other mucinous carcinomas. This is the first study to indicate a possible role of epigenetic events in the pathobiology of PCMC.
Dosimetric comparison of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, and volumetric-modulated arc therapy for free-breathing whole-breast irradiation: A planning study
Authors: Czeremszynska Beata , Socha Joanna , Rygielska Anna , Walewska Agnieszka , Gabor Marta , Pruska-Pich Dorota , Osowiecka Karolina , Kepka Lucyna
Published: June 2023

Background:

Currently, recommended heart dose constraints are difficult to meet in whole-breast irradiation (WBI) for left-sided breast cancer patients, who cannot be treated with the deep inspiration breath hold. We performed a radiotherapy planning study to establish if the use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) allows for better sparing of the heart and its subvolumes than the three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT), and how these attempts affect the dose delivered to the other organs.

Methods:

A total of 17 left-sided and 10 right-sided consecutive patients treated with free-breathing WBI were retrospectively included. The 3D-CRT, IMRT, and VMAT plans were generated. Several dose–volume parameters and plan quality indices were compared, separately for the left- and right-sided plans.

Results:

All the techniques fulfilled the planning objectives. In the left-sided plans, there was no heart or left ventricle dose reduction with IMRT, nor with VMAT; the maximum dose in the left anterior descending coronary artery was reduced with VMAT (P = 0.005); V5 for the contralateral breast, contralateral lung, and total-body increased markedly in VMAT, and for the ipsilateral lung (V5IL) also in IMRT, compared with 3D-CRT (P < 0.001). In the right-sided plans, the V5 values, except for V5IL, did not differ between the three techniques.

Conclusions:

IMRT and VMAT had a limited heart-sparing benefit in the left-sided free-breathing WBI, at the cost of increased low-dose volumes, measured by V5. The low-dose volumes are not increased by IMRT or VMAT in the right-sided WBI, where heart sparing is not a problem, but the attempts to reduce cardiac doses in the left-sided WBI increase them.