bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined emission economic dispatch using quantum-inspired particle swarm optimization and its variants
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Amin Adil , Jamil Umar , Mahmood Anzar , Ahmed Ubaid , Razzaq Sohail , Mahdi Fahad Parvez
Published: March 2024

The ever-increasing electricity demand, its dependency on fossil fuels, and the consequent environmental degradation are major concerns of this era. The worldwide domination of fossil fuels in bulk electricity generation is rapidly increasing the emissions of CO2 and other environmentally dangerous gases that are contributing to climate change. The economic and emission dispatch are two important problems in thermal power generation whose combination produces a complex highly constrained nonlinear optimization problem known as combined economic and emission dispatch. The optimization of combined economic and emission dispatch aims to allocate the generation of committed units to minimize fuel cost and emissions, simultaneously while honoring all equality and inequality constraints. Therefore, in this article, we investigate a solution of the combined economic and emission dispatch problem using quantum particle swarm optimization and its two modified versions, that is, enhanced quantum particle swarm optimization and quantum particle swarm optimization integrated with weighted mean personal best and adaptive local attractor. The enhanced quantum particle swarm optimization algorithm achieves particles’ diversification at early stages and shows good performance in local search at later stages. The quantum particle swarm optimization integrated with weighted mean personal best and adaptive local attractor boosts search performance of quantum particle swarm optimization and attains better global optimality. The suggested methods are employed to achieve solution for the combined economic and emission dispatch in four distinct systems, encompassing two scenarios with 6 units each, one with a 10-unit configuration, and another with an 11-unit setup. A comparative analysis with methodologies documented in existing literature reveals that the proposed approach outperforms others, demonstrating superior computational performance and robust efficiency.
Nostalgia, Ritual Engagement, and Meaning in Life
Authors: Yin Yige , Jiang Tonglin , Wildschut Tim , Sedikides Constantine
Published: March 2024

Rituals are pervasive and beneficial. Little is known, however, about causes or antecedents of ritual engagement. We hypothesized that nostalgia—a sentimental longing for one’s past—promotes ritual engagement, which in turn augments meaning in life. We tested this hypothesis in five methodologically diverse studies. In Study 1 ( N = 311), nostalgia was positively associated with ritual engagement. In Study 2 ( N = 188), nostalgia promoted ritual engagement, and in Study 3 ( N = 296), it did so over engagement in a neutral task. In Study 4 ( N = 252), nostalgia predicted later ritual engagement but not vice versa, convergent with Studies 2 and 3. Furthermore, nostalgia prospectively predicted meaning in life through specific ritualistic behaviors during a traditional festival. Finally, in Study 5 ( N = 166), experimentally manipulated ritual engagement augmented meaning in life. As hypothesized, nostalgia advances ritual engagement, contributing to a meaningful life.
Assessing Productive Structures in Brazil With Dynamic Time Varying Graphs
Authors: Ribeiro Luiz Carlos de Santana , Pereira Eder Johnson de Area Leão , Monteiro Roberto Luiz Souza , Senna Valter de , Ferreira Neto Amir Borges , Pereira Hernane Borges de Barros
Published: March 2024

This paper uses time varying graphs to evaluate the Brazilian production structures, assessing the relationship across economic sectors overtime given important macroeconomic shocks in the country. We use the annual Brazilian input-output matrices from the World Input–Output Database for the period 1995–2011. Our results show possible positive impacts of macroeconomic policies and higher commodity prices on increased network connectivity between 2002 and 2003, the negative influence of the 2008 crisis resulting in decreased network connectivity, and the intensification of the connectivity of the food, petrochemical and metals, and machinery sectors. These results provide insights on how potential macroeconomic exogenous shocks and policies propagates through the national production structure.
Art on Mission with the Tabernacle Builders
Authors: Cornell Collin
Published: March 2024

How does art contribute to mission? How might Scripture shape the claims that Christians make about art and mission? This article addresses these questions. It argues, first, that there is a need for fresh work in this area, because existing literature on the biblical theology of mission dedicates scarce attention to art and beauty, also because such literature centers scriptural texts that lack an aesthetic dimension. Second, it provides exegetical setup for its biblical-theological proposal: it observes that Genesis 1 foregrounds beauty and the production of art, and it observes that Genesis 1 belongs integrally together with the Tabernacle texts at the end of Exodus. Third, it interprets the Tabernacle builders as a template for art on mission. Their artistry evidences faithfulness and freedom; and their practice shows the generosity of art.
Industrial implementation of a next generation advanced high strength steel
Authors: Chen Shangping , Mostert Richard , Aarnts Maxim
Published: March 2024

This study describes a suitable process for manufacture of a cold rolled and continuous annealed advanced high strength steel with a carbide-free bainitic ferrite or quenching and partitioning microstructure in an existing annealing production line. The effect of variations of the main processing parameters on the phase transformation responses and mechanical properties of potential candidate steels was investigated with particular focus on the effect of the overaging temperatures. The relationship between the microstructure and the tensile properties and the hole expansion capacity was scrutinized. In addition to the second phases such as fresh martensite and retained austenite, the non-relaxed strain gradient in the microstructures might be an important parameter to influence the hole expansion capacity.
To what extent are guidelines used in spasticity clinics? A qualitative study of facilitators and barriers to spasticity guideline implementation
Authors: Sutherland Edwina , Williams Gavin , Dobson Fiona , Hill Bridget , Woo Chi Ching Angie , Lawford Belinda
Published: March 2024

Objective

To determine the common understanding of focal muscle spasticity guidelines amongst clinicians working in spasticity clinics. To examine the facilitators and barriers to their implementation as well as their influence on clinic processes.

Design

A qualitative study based on a phenomenological approach.

Setting

Online videoconferencing platform.

Participants

Sixteen experienced multi-disciplinary clinicians providing specialised care across 12 spasticity clinics in Victoria, Australia.

Intervention

Observational.

Main measures

Two independent reviewers performed line by line coding of transcripts. Reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken with themes/subthemes inductively derived.

Results

Seven key themes emerged. First, knowledge of specific guideline recommendations was low amongst some clinicians. Second, there is a lack of health service resources to support guideline implementation. Third, a limited evidence base for guidelines affected clinicians’ willingness to implement the recommendations. Fourth, peer support was highly valued but opportunities to collaborate were limited. Fifth, a large amount of intrinsic motivation and personal time was required from clinicians to successfully implement guideline recommendations. Sixth, the standardisation of clinic processes was one way in which clinicians felt they could better align their clinical practice to guidelines. Lastly, guidelines overall had a moderate influence on spasticity clinic processes.

Conclusions

Knowledge of recommendations varied but, overall, guidelines had an influence on clinic processes and staff perceptions across the state-wide services. Health service resources, limited evidence for guideline recommendations and time constraints were considered barriers to spasticity guideline implementation. Multi-disciplinary expertise and teamwork, the individual's motivation to change and inter-clinic collaboration were considered to be the facilitators.
Macro- and microvascular contributions to cerebral structural alterations in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis
Authors: Schmitzer Lena , Kaczmarz Stephan , Göttler Jens , Hoffmann Gabriel , Kallmayer Michael , Eckstein Hans-Henning , Hedderich Dennis Martin , Kufer Jan , Zimmer Claus , Preibisch Christine , Hyder Fahmeed , Sollmann Nico
Published: March 2024

Atherosclerosis can underly internal carotid artery stenosis (ICAS), a major risk factor for ischemic stroke, as well as small vessel disease (SVD). This study aimed to investigate hemodynamics and structural alterations associated with SVD in ICAS patients. 28 patients with unilateral asymptomatic ICAS and 30 age-matched controls underwent structural (T1-/T2-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging [DTI]) and hemodynamic (pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling and dynamic susceptibility contrast) magnetic resonance imaging. SVD-related alterations were assessed using free water (FW), FW-corrected DTI, and peak-width of skeletonized mean diffusivity (PSMD). Furthermore, cortical thickness, cerebral blood flow (CBF), and capillary transit time heterogeneity (CTH) were analyzed. Ipsilateral to the stenosis, cortical thickness was significantly decreased in the posterior dorsal cingulate cortex (p = 0.024) and temporal pole (p = 0.028). ICAS patients exhibited elevated PSMD (p = 0.005), FW (p < 0.001), and contralateral alterations in FW-corrected DTI metrics. We found significantly lateralized CBF (p = 0.011) and a tendency for lateralized CTH (p = 0.067) in the white matter (WM) related to ICAS. Elevated PSMD and FW may indicate a link between SVD and WM changes. Contralateral alterations were seen in FW-corrected DTI, whereas hemodynamic and cortical changes were mainly ipsilateral, suggesting SVD might influence global brain changes concurrent with ICAS-related hemodynamic alterations.
“There’s no one as honest as those in pain”: The language of Tom Petty’s song lyrics
Authors: Kalichman Seth C , Smyth Joshua M
Published: March 2024

Tom Petty’s songs are among the most recognized and influential in rock music. One aspect of Petty’s songs that contributes to his popularity is his use of language in his lyrics. The current study performed two sets of analyses: (a) to examine linguistic features of Petty’s song lyrics over the course of his songwriting career; and (b) to investigate similarities and differences between Petty’s lyrics and the earlier and contemporaneous lyrics of an artist widely assumed to have influenced him, Bob Dylan. Results of analyses using a standard textual program, Linguistic Inquiry Word Count (LIWC), showed that Petty reduced his references to social relations and reduced his focus on future time orientations over his songwriting career. There were also rises and declines in expressions of authenticity as well as increases in analytical thinking. In analyses comparing Petty to Dylan using a time-lagged approach, Petty’s songs remained shorter in number of words than Dylan’s songs and there was an increase in indicators of analytical thinking in Petty’s later work reaching levels that are characteristic of Dylan’s songs. Further research is needed to trace the influences on prolific songwriting and other aspects of music beyond lyrical expression.
Association between a low-risk COVID-19 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation criteria and mortality: A retrospective study
Authors: Gostyuzhev Igor , Mohamed Adham , Freiberger-O’Keefe Carole E , Haines Michelle M , Kozinn Jonathan B
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Our study aimed to compare the outcomes of COVID-19 patients who met a low-risk inclusion criteria for veno-venous extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) with those who did not meet criteria due to higher risk but were subsequently cannulated.

Methods:

This was a retrospective observational cohort study that included adult patients who were placed on VV ECMO for COVID-19 related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) at a tertiary care academic medical center. The primary outcome was the association between the low-risk criteria and mortality. The patients met the criteria if they met EOLIA severe ARDS criteria, no absolute contraindications (age > 60 years, BMI > 55 kg/m2, mechanical ventilation (MV) duration >7 days, irreversible neurologic damage, chronic lung disease, active malignancy, or advanced multiorgan dysfunction), and had three or less relative contraindications (age > 50 years, BMI > 45 kg/m2, comorbidities, MV duration > 4 days, acute kidney injury, receiving vasopressors, hospital LOS > 14 days, or COVID-19 diagnosis > 4 weeks).

Results:

Sixty-five patients were included from March 2020 through March 2022. Patients were stratified into low-risk or high-risk categories. The median Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score was 7 and the median PaO2/FiO2 ratio was 44 at the time of ECMO cannulation. The in-hospital mortality was 47.8% in the low-risk group and 69.0% in the high-risk group ( p = 0.096).

Conclusion:

There was not a statistically significant difference in survival between low-risk patients and high-risk patients; however, there was a trend toward higher survival in the lower-risk group.
An experimental review on enhancing the low and high-velocity impact resistance of NFCs through nanoparticle reinforcement
Authors: Siddiqui M. A. Shadab , Rabbi M. S. , Rahman Md. Tauhidur
Published: March 2024

Nanoparticles are widely used in biocomposite materials due to their ability to improve the mechanical properties of composites. This comprehensive review analyzes the use of nanoparticles to enhance the experimental low and high-velocity impact resistance of natural fiber composites. Various nanoparticles like carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, boron nitride, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide were investigated as reinforcements at different loading levels. The addition of nano-ZrO2 alone or with graphene oxide yielded the highest impact resistance and interlaminar shear strength of basalt fiber/epoxy composites. Cloisite 20A clay improved the mechanical properties of an epoxy matrix. Carbon/epoxy laminates showed improved maximum impact force, energy absorption, and displacement with 2wt% carbon nanofibers loading. Nanoparticles were found to enhance moisture and temperature resistance by strengthening the fiber–matrix interface. The literature demonstrated that small amounts of well-dispersed nanoparticles can meaningfully improve natural fiber composites’ impact resistance, strength, stiffness, toughness, and energy absorption through mechanisms like crack arresting and bridging. Hybrid carbon-basalt fibers and calcium carbonate nanoparticles also enhanced composite performance. Balancing the nanoparticle loading is crucial to prevent agglomeration effects. Future studies on their toxicity and environmental impacts would be needed for widespread commercial applications of Biocomposites.
Exploring the use of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites in electronic circuit boards
Authors: Subramaniam Omprakasam , Raman Raghu , Karuppannan Ramsami Prabha
Published: March 2024

Sustainable banana fiber has become potential alternative reinforcement materials instead of synthetic fibers for the development of the polymer composites. These natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites can be utilized for numerous applications. The current study aims to fabricate the epoxy/banana fiber composites under varying fraction of banana fibers. Compression molding process was employed to fabricate the composites since it is frequently used for production of large-scale composite parts like automotive components. Various weight percentages of banana fiber (50%, 60%, 70%, and 80% by weight) and epoxy (50%, 40%, 30%, and 20% by weight) were utilized for the development of the composites. Results revealed that the combination of the epoxy (40 wt. %)/banana fiber (60%) has the higher tensile strength of 22.67 MPa, flexural strength of 39.56 MPa, impact strength of 2.97 kJ/m2, and Barcol hardness of 35.24 among the various combinations of the epoxy and banana fiber composites. This work highlights the viability of sustainable materials within the materials engineering field, promoting the development of eco-friendly alternatives in composite fabrication.
Enrollment at Adult High Schools in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: An Exploration of Motivation, Age, and Gender Using Boshier's EPS A-Form
Authors: Alfaifi Mousa
Published: March 2024

Motivation plays a crucial role in adult learners’ decisions to enroll in educational programs. This study aimed to evaluate the motivations for adult learners who enrolled at adult high schools in Riyadh as well as the potential gender and age differences for their motivations. The Education Participation Scale (EPS) A-Form was administered to adult learners, and 221 valid responses were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank, Mann–Whitney U, and Kruskal–Wallis H tests. The results indicated that professional advancement, cognitive interest, and educational preparation were the primary motivations, while social contact was the least influential motivator. Furthermore, female respondents reported higher levels of motivation for educational preparation than male respondents, but no significant differences were observed for motivational orientations across age groups. To enhance participation in adult high-school programs, the General Department of Continuing Education should tailor its enrollment strategies that they appeal to the three main motivations for various groups.
Association Between Harsh Disciplinary Methods and Child Functioning in Children Aged 7–14 Years in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Kamran Zaibunnisa , Kazi Ambreen
Published: March 2024

Despite having adverse physical and mental health outcomes, harsh disciplinary methods are commonly practiced all over the world. This study aims to measure the harsh disciplinary actions taken by parents and their association with child functioning in children, aged 7 to 14 years in Punjab, Pakistan. This study is based on secondary data obtained from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF’s) Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, conducted in the Punjab province from 2017 to 2018. Parents/caregivers of 19,721 children were included in the analysis. Questionnaire-based interviews were conducted, and the data collection form included sociodemographic information, questions on different “Methods of Child Discipline” and the “Child functioning module.” The data was analyzed using STATA 15.0. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate the adjusted odds ratio and 95% CI exploring the association between harsh disciplinary methods and child functioning. More than 50% of children were exposed to severe physical, psychological, and emotional disciplinary methods. Exposure to severe physical aggression was associated with increased difficulty in learning (2.60 [1.27, 5.31]), remembering (2.83 [1.47, 5.44]), controlling behavior (1.63 [1.21, 2.18]), anxiety (1.98 [1.25, 3.13]), depression (2.57 [1.57, 4.22]) and making friends (1.94 [1.01, 3.79]). Whereas moderate physical aggression and psychological aggression were associated with (1.48 [1.19, 1.84]) and 1.5 times (1.20, 1.84) increase in difficulty in controlling behavior, respectively. Nonviolent actions were associated with protective odds for self-care (0.33 [0.17, 0.65]), communication (0.51 [0.27, 0.96]), learning (0.56 [0.33, 0.95]), remembering (0.62 [0.39, 0.90]), concentration (0.50 [0.31, 0.80]), anxiety (0.60 [0.46, 0.79]) and depression (0.67 [0.49, 0.92]). Severe disciplinary methods are detrimental to the child’s personal care, mental, social, emotional, and psychological well-being, whereas nonviolent actions are associated with positive child functioning. In a third-world country such as Pakistan, this topic is widely undiscovered and understudied, thus emphasizing the need for awareness and education of parents and healthcare providers.
The Impact of a State-Level, Place-Based Economic Development Program: A Difference-in-Differences Approach
Authors: Hicks Michael J. , Faulk Dagney
Published: March 2024

This analysis uses a difference-in-differences approach to examine the impact of the Regional Cities Initiative (RCI) on economic development outcomes in counties that participated in the program relative to those that did not participate. The RCI was a place-based economic development program that was implemented in Indiana beginning in 2015. Through a competitive process, this program provided funding for projects meant to improve the quality of life in three regions of the state. The results indicate that participating counties had higher gross domestic product growth and higher employment growth than nonparticipating counties. There is limited evidence that the program had a positive impact on population growth. There were no discernable effects on house prices or earnings.
Demonstratio et veritas. Priestly oracles in Pseudo-Philo’s Liber Antiquitatum Biblicarum
Authors: Marcello Fabrizio
Published: March 2024

Although shrouded in mystery, the oracles of the high priest (Urim and Thummim) have often been the subject of curious interest in the literature of the Second Temple, as well as in the Liber Antiquitatum Biblicarum (L.A.B.). The present research studies the mentions of this device in Pseudo-Philo’s narrative to shed new light on its configuration, role, and function. Despite the attempts made by recent scholarship to distinguish and separate them from the priestly attire, the most plausible hypothesis is to consider Pseudo-Philo’s understanding of Urim and Thummim as light-giving stones, closely related to the ephod, used by the high priest especially when he has to exercise judgment. Thus, such objects gain importance in reconstructing the peculiar significance of priesthood in L.A.B. In this framework, the strange narrative of L.A.B. 25–26 about the idolatrous stones replaced by new luminous ones becomes more intelligible.
“Like one of the glorious ones”: The transformation of Enoch in 2 Enoch 22
Authors: Otto Randall E.
Published: March 2024

The common assertions that Enoch in 2 Enoch is transformed into an angel, if not something more, are shown to lack support from the key bases on which this assertion is made, namely, his standing in the divine presence, the “sounding out” or testing of the angels to his entry into the divine presence, and his change of clothing for priestly service. Moreover, scholarly assertions of Enoch’s “angelic transformation” do not cohere with the clear emphases he later makes to his family of his shared humanity with them. Much of this misreading of the portrayal of Enoch in this book may owe to retrojections of later Hekhalot mysticism back into the book in an effort to discern a “line of development” or trajectory from 1 Enoch to 3 Enoch. Such a trajectory can be warranted only on the basis of a coherent portrayal of Enoch as he is presented in 2 Enoch. There he is clearly depicted as a man who is glorified among the angels but who remains a human being. While Enoch may be “angelomorphic” in having some of the various forms and functions of an angel, even though not explicitly called an “angel” or considered to have the created nature of an angel, this terminology should be used with caution, since it may tend to blur distinctions between the function and ontology of created heavenly and created earthly beings.
The necessity of form and spatial content for defining “apocalypse” and “apocalyptic”
Authors: Reynolds Benjamin E.
Published: March 2024

The Semeia 14 definition of apocalypse defined apocalypses as a constellation of form, temporal content, and spatial content, but temporal content (particularly eschatological features) remains the dominant lens through which the genre of apocalypse and related texts are understood. Defining apocalypses primarily in terms of eschatology, however, narrows the definition of apocalypse and dismisses some texts that reflect non-eschatological features of apocalypses. Form and spatial content are often neglected in the examination of apocalypses and “apocalyptic” texts. When we pay attention to form and spatial content, along with temporal content, new horizons open for considering what may be considered apocalypse-like. Jubilees and the Gospel of John are presented as two examples of revelatory texts that reflect the form and spatial content of apocalypses.
Numerical and theoretical approach to evaluate the clamping force and the interlayer gap extent during drilling of stacked materials
Authors: Panico Martina , Durante Massimo , Langella Antonio , Boccarusso Luca
Published: March 2024

In the aeronautical industry, one-shot drilling of stacked materials is a widely adopted and established solution. However, ongoing discussions persist, particularly regarding the issue of interlayer gap formation that arises when two or more unsealed materials are drilled together. This study aims to present a simplified and reproducible theoretical model based on the equation of the elastic curve applied to structural schemes that discretize and describe the interlayer gap phenomenon in the drilling process. The model is designed to estimate the extent of the interlayer gap phenomenon and predict the clamping force required for its reduction when an end-effector is employed as a clamping device during the drilling of stacked sheets. Experimental and finite element analyses were conducted to validate the results of the proposed theoretical model. Each model was developed and applied to a real structural unit of a fuselage panel, considering actual boundary conditions in terms of structural constraints and geometric features of the assembly. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that the proposed one-dimensional theoretical model consistently aligns with experimental and numerical observations obtained through finite element analysis. This offers an effective and readily implementable solution in an industrial context as a tool for sizing the clamping force exerted by a clamping device.
A hybrid vibration suppression strategy for redundant cable-driven parallel mechanisms
Authors: Yu Jinshan , Tao Jianguo , Wang Guoxing , Li Xiao , Wang Haowei
Published: March 2024

Suppressing the vibration of cable-driven parallel mechanisms (CDPMs) is of great significance for improving their performance such as positioning accuracy. In this paper, a hybrid vibration suppression strategy based on stiffness enhancement and input shaping is proposed to reduce the vibration of a CDPM in the process of moving. Firstly, the stiffness model and vibration model of the CDPM are established. Then, based on the stiffness model and the vector set [Formula: see text] that meets the requirements of the cable tensions, a stiffness enhancement algorithm is proposed to improve the stiffness of the mechanism by adjusting cable tensions. In order to reduce the vibration of the mechanism to the maximum extent, a hybrid vibration suppression strategy is proposed by combining the stiffness enhancement algorithm with the multi-modal input shaping technique. Finally, the effect of stiffness enhancement algorithm and hybrid vibration suppression strategy on reducing mechanism vibration is verified by experiments. The hybrid vibration suppression strategy proposed in this paper does not require additional components and therefore does not increase the cost of vibration suppression, and it has good performance.
Synthesis of biodiesel from the composite oil and process parameters optimization using artificial neural network
Authors: Kalos Pritam S , Kharat Reena , Vivekanandan Nallu , Kannan Rajeswari , Balamurugan Samraj
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the effect of catalyst utilization (wt%), methanol to composite oil molar ratio (mole) and reaction thermal state (°C) on the biodiesel yield percentage of transesterification of novel composite oil (equal volume % of Castor oil, Mahua oil and dairy waste scum oil). Artificial neural network (ANN) based on central composite design was implemented to investigate the influence of catalyst utilization (1–3 wt%), methanol to composite oil molar ratio (6–12 molar) and reaction thermal state (55–65 °C) as the independent variables. Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm was used to predict the responses, biodiesel yield %. The fairness of the ANN prediction of biodiesel yield % is tested by means of coefficients of determination of training phase, validation set, test set and combined training, validation and test. The results revealed that the optimum catalyst utilization, methanol to composite oil molar ratio and reaction thermal state were determined as 3 wt%, 9 molar, and 65 °C for the maximum biodiesel yield of 94 ± 1% from the composite oil. The ASTM D6751 standard is employed to assess the quality of biodiesel derived from a blend of oils. The findings of this study indicate that the newly developed mixed oil is a viable feedstock for the production of biodiesel.
Coronary hemodynamic simulation study
Authors: Cheng Leilei , Chen Zhenlei , Yang Fengyuan , Zheng Rongyue , He Wenming , Shi Fan , Liu Chang , Wang Fachang , Wang Li , Xie Yanqing , Lu Haoxuan
Published: March 2024

In this paper, a two-way fluid-structure coupling model is developed to simulate and analyze the hemodynamic process based on dynamic coronary angiography, and examine the influence of different hemodynamic parameters on coronary arteries in typical coronary stenosis lesions. Using the measured FFR pressure data of a patient, the pressure-time function curve is fitted to ensure the accuracy of the boundary conditions. The average error of the simulation pressure results compared to the test data is 6.74%. In addition, the results related to blood flow, pressure contour and wall shear stress contour in a typical cardiac cycle are obtained by simulation analysis. These results are found to be in good agreement with the laws of the real cardiac cycle, which verifies the rationality of the simulation. In conclusion, based on the modeling and hemodynamic simulation analysis process of dynamic coronary angiography, this paper proposes a method to assist the analysis and evaluation of coronary hemodynamic and functional parameters, which has certain practical significance.
Technology for managing incontinence: What are the research priorities?
Authors: Fader Mandy , Murphy Cathy L , Bliss Donna Z , Buckley Brian S , Cockerell Rowan , Cottenden Alan M , Kottner Jan , Ostaszkiewicz Joan
Published: March 2024

Incontinence and toileting difficulties can often be successfully addressed by treating their underlying causes. However, (complete) cure is not always possible and continence products to prevent or contain unresolved leakage or to facilitate toileting are in widespread use. Many people use them successfully but identifying the product(s) most likely to meet individual needs can be challenging and the recently published Seventh International Consultation on Incontinence includes a chapter which draws on the literature to provide evidence-based recommendations to help clinicians and product users to select appropriate products. This paper is based on the same evidence, but reviewed from the different perspective of those keen to identify unmet needs and develop improved products. For each of the main continence product categories it (i) outlines the design approach and key features of what is currently available; (ii) provides a generic functional design specification; (iii) reviews how well existing products meet the requirements of their main user groups; and (iv) suggests priorities for the attention of product designers. It also flags some core scientific problems which – if successfully addressed – would likely yield benefits in multiple incontinence product contexts.
Penile median raphe gonococcal infection
Authors: Santos-Latasa Blanca , Bru-Gorraiz Francisco-Javier , Martin-Gorgojo Alejandro
Published: March 2024

The occurrence of cysts and papulopustules along the midline penile raphe, as a complication of gonococcal urethritis, is considered an exceptional presentation. These lesions are related to developmental abnormalities in the fusion of the lower portion of the ventral abdominal wall during embryogenesis, which create small pathways along the raphe of the penis, prone to secondary infection in the presence of gonococcal urethritis. We present the case of a 25-year-old male who experienced these lesions twice, coinciding with two separate episodes of gonococcal urethritis following unprotected sex. Treatment with intramuscular ceftriaxone resolved both the urethritis and cystic lesions.
White by Another Name? Can Anti-Christian Bias Claims Serve as a Racial Dog Whistle?
Authors: Al-Kire Rosemary L. , Miller Chad A. , Pasek Michael H. , Perry Samuel L. , Wilkins Clara L.
Published: March 2024

Four preregistered experiments ( N = 4,307) explored whether anti-Christian bias claims can discreetly signal White allyship among Christian American adults. In Experiments 1 and 2, reading about anti-Christian bias led White, but not Black, Christians to perceive more anti-White bias. Experiments 3 and 4 demonstrate the connection between Christian and White can be leveraged by politicians in the form of a racial dog whistle. In Experiment 3, White Christians perceived a politician concerned about anti-Christian bias as caring more about anti-White bias and more willing to fight for White people (relative to a control). This politician was also perceived as less offensive than a politician concerned about anti-White bias. In Experiment 4, Black Christians perceived a politician concerned about anti-Christian bias as less offensive than one concerned about anti-White bias yet still unlikely to fight for Black people. Results suggest “anti-Christian bias” can provide a relatively palatable way to signal allegiance to White people.
Why isn’t flow flowing? Metatheoretical issues in explanations of flow
Authors: Farrokh David , Stone Joseph A. , Davids Keith , Strafford Ben W. , Rumbold James L.
Published: March 2024

A flow state describes intrinsically rewarding experiences of complete absorption in a task. While descriptive accounts of flow have gained prominence in “popular” psychology, scientific research has reached a crisis point due to perceived limitations of current theoretical explanations for the experience. Here, we evaluate key metatheoretical frameworks underpinning previous explanations of flow and situate the need for reconsidering the ontological status of flow experiences and the causal entailments that might be needed to explain them. We consider the possibility that the subject–object dualism implied, and the organismic asymmetry apparent in prevalent metatheoretical frameworks, may create intractable problems for explanations of flow. Finally, the suitability of the ecological metatheory and eco-physical variables for explaining flow experiences is discussed.
Vegetation diversity in response to monsoonal variability in the Eastern Himalaya, India over the past ~13 000 yrs
Authors: Dubey Jyotsna , Ali S Nawaz , Quamar Mohammad Firoze , Singh Priyanka , Morthekai P , Ghosh Ruby , Sharma Anupam , Srivastava Vaibhava
Published: March 2024

Monsoon precipitation plays a crucial role in shaping the diversity of vegetation in the Himalayas, both in terms of temporal and spatial distribution. While palynology has traditionally been employed to reconstruct the past climate of the Himalaya, there has been limited understanding of how monsoon-related changes affect the structure and distribution of vegetation. To address this, we analysed pollen data from a 3 m deep sedimentary profile in the higher Sikkim Himalaya to reconstruct monsoon driven changes in vegetation diversity. Our results show a highly fluctuating trend of pollen and diversity parameters at late-Pleistocene-Holocene transition for which fluctuating hydroclimatic conditions and differential pollen preservation in coarser sediments is attributed. During the Early Holocene (10,438–7934 cal yrs BP) favourable hydroclimatic conditions led to a rapid expansion of mixed broad-leaved forests, marked by higher values of richness and alpha diversity. Between 7934 and 5481 cal yrs BP, the region experienced moderate hydroclimatic conditions that facilitated expansion and diversification of woody taxa, and correlated with the global Holocene Climate Optimum (HCO). Conversely, from 5481 to3949 cal yrs BP, declining total pollen count (TPC), species richness, and alpha diversity indicates significant shifts in vegetation composition under deteriorating climatic conditions, which corresponds with the 4.2 ka event worldwide. From 3949 to 2049 cal yrs BP, an increasing yet variable trend in TPC and diversity indices, suggests warm-humid conditions prevailed in the region. During the last 1086 cal yrs, an increasing trend is recorded in the palyno assemblage and diversity parameters suggesting ameliorating climate, matches well with the Mediaeval Climate Anomaly (MCA). Our inferences suggest that the palyno assemblage and diversity parameters are quiet sensitive to warm and humid conditions.
Optimal allocation strategies in platform trials with continuous endpoints
Authors: Bofill Roig Marta , Glimm Ekkehard , Mielke Tobias , Posch Martin
Published: March 2024

Platform trials are randomized clinical trials that allow simultaneous comparison of multiple interventions, usually against a common control. Arms to test experimental interventions may enter and leave the platform over time. This implies that the number of experimental intervention arms in the trial may change as the trial progresses. Determining optimal allocation rates to allocate patients to the treatment and control arms in platform trials is challenging because the optimal allocation depends on the number of arms in the platform and the latter typically varies over time. In addition, the optimal allocation depends on the analysis strategy used and the optimality criteria considered. In this article, we derive optimal treatment allocation rates for platform trials with shared controls, assuming that a stratified estimation and a testing procedure based on a regression model are used to adjust for time trends. We consider both, analysis using concurrent controls only as well as analysis methods using concurrent and non-concurrent controls and assume that the total sample size is fixed. The objective function to be minimized is the maximum of the variances of the effect estimators. We show that the optimal solution depends on the entry time of the arms in the trial and, in general, does not correspond to the square root of [Formula: see text] allocation rule used in classical multi-arm trials. We illustrate the optimal allocation and evaluate the power and type 1 error rate compared to trials using one-to-one and square root of [Formula: see text] allocations by means of a case study.
“A little taste of what it would be like to be in the military”: Performing militarism at the Canada army run
Authors: Desjardins Bridgette M
Published: March 2024

While significant attention has been paid to the perpetuation of pro-military ideology via discourse and political practice, less attention has been paid to the role of the body in (re)producing militarism. Drawing on 40 interviews with primarily civilian Canada Army Run participants, I argue that militarism is reproduced in part via civilians’ embodied performances. Performances of militarism allow participants to feel and thus reproduce militarism through the body. Performances of military support allow participants to orient themselves toward the military in a way that reproduces pro-military mythologies and situates the performer socially as national subjects who appropriately exalt the military (and are thus deserving of exaltation in turn), binding participants together and reaffirming social bonds created via shared love of the military. Ultimately, performances of militarism reify the military as exalted, insulating it from critical consideration by the public.
Synchronous Low-Grade Central Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Christensen Daniel , Belair Jeffrey A. , BasuMallick Atrayee , Brown Scot A. , Klein Michael , Jiang Wei
Published: March 2024

A 23-year-old female patient presented with radicular back pain, perineal numbness, and urinary retention. The patient was diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine revealed an enhancing osseous lumbar lesion causing severe central stenosis. A core needle biopsy of the lumbar spine showed microscopic features compatible with a small round blue cell tumor. CD99 and FLI1 were positive in the tumor cells. Next-generation sequencing demonstrated a EWSR1::FLI1 fusion. Given these findings, the spine lesion was diagnosed as Ewing sarcoma. The patient underwent surgical decompression of L2. On further workup, an MRI revealed an ill-defined enhancing mass of the right distal femur. This area was biopsied, demonstrating a fibro-osseous lesion with osteoblast proliferation containing nuclear atypia, low mitotic activity, and SATB2 positivity, diagnosed as low-grade central osteosarcoma (LGCOS). The patient underwent resection, which showed a classic LGCOS by histomorphology. Although fluorescence in-situ hybridization study for MDM2 gene amplification was negative, the overall findings are most consistent with LGCOS. These neoplasms are considered to be synchronous due to the presentation of each entity within 6 months. Considering the aggregate yearly incidence of Ewing sarcoma (approximately 1 case per 750 000 per year) and LGCOS (approximately 1 case per 10 million per year), the aggregate yearly probability of developing both of these genetically unrelated tumors in a single individual is 1 per 7.5 trillion per year, and it is likely such an event has never happened in the past.
Postoperative Outcomes Between Positive and Negative Electrodiagnosis in Patients With Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Rungprai Chamnanni , Suksintharanon Methasit , Hempongphan Tanarat , Pongpinyopap Warongporn , Boonma Pisit , Hathaiareerug Chanasak , Sripanich Yantarat
Published: March 2024

Background:

The sensitivity of diagnosing tarsal tunnel syndrome with an electrodiagnostic study is just over 50%. Given this low reliability, many surgeons prefer to make a diagnosis solely from a physical examination, despite reported electrodiagnostic findings. Thus, to understand the clinical ramifications between these 2 methods of diagnosis, this investigation compared the postoperative outcomes following a tarsal tunnel release between patients with positive and negative preoperative electrodiagnosis (EDx).

Methods:

This study retrospectively reviewed 53 consecutive patients who underwent tarsal tunnel release by a single surgeon between 2015 and 2022. The primary outcome was pain level using visual analog scale (VAS) whereas the secondary outcomes were 36-Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure, recovery times (time to return to activities of daily living, work, and sports), and complications. Pre- and postoperative functional outcomes were compared within each EDx group using a paired sample t test. Postoperative outcomes between groups were compared using a generalized linear model adjusted for potential confounders.

Results:

Both EDx groups (positive studies = 31 patients and negative studies = 22 patients) demonstrated significant improvement of all functional outcomes ( P < .001). We found no significant difference in recovery time or postoperative outcomes between the 2 groups ( P > .05). Multivariable analysis showed diabetes (risk ratio [RR] = 1.79, 95% CI 1.11-2.90) and longer duration of symptoms before surgery (RR = 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04) as prognostic factors for residual pain following tarsal tunnel release.

Conclusion:

In our series, we found that preoperative electrodiagnostic results did not prognosticate postoperative functional outcomes or recovery times after tarsal tunnel release.
“DV Fatigue”: Work Stress and Officers’ Attitudes and Performance at Domestic and Family Violence Incidents
Authors: Maple Emily , Kebbell Mark
Published: March 2024

A self-report instrument was created to measure stress, attitudes, and performance of domestic and family violence (DFV) first responders in an Australian state. DFV-related stress negatively impacted officers’ attitudes and self-assessed performance. Higher DFV stress was predicted by the frequency and severity of DFV incidents, and the absence of lived experience. Negative attitudes were predicted by a shorter length of service and lower severity, and poorer performance by a longer length of service and lower perceived social support. Males reported higher stress and poorer performance than females. The findings reveal systemic issues that inhibit effective police response, emphasizing the need to address negative attitudes and “DV fatigue.”
Percutaneous interventional thrombectomy of an endovascular AV-fistula, a case report
Authors: Brzoska Martin , Pham Son Tung , Dorbath Christian , Veith Roland , Heine Gunnar Henrik
Published: March 2024

Dialysis access thrombosis is a common complication in the process of care. With the introduction of endovascular AV-fistulas [AVF]s the situation gained complexity with new potential thrombosis localizations. Several thrombectomy methods are available for recanalization of thrombosed AVFs ranging from invasive surgical methods to minimal invasive endovascular approaches. Early assessment, diagnosis and treatment is crucial for prolonging the life span of an AVF and preventing the need for placement of central venous catheters. To our best knowledge, we present the first case in which an obstructed antecubital communicating vein (aka perforating vein) of an endovascular created AVF was re-opened via interventional thrombectomy with the Rotarex® System (BD Interventional). The procedure was performed primarily under ultrasound guidance with fluoroscopic support. Our case report shows that this method, if done correctly and successfully, may prevent loss of the dialysis access. Additionally, we point towards the central role of ultrasound in this method.