bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of top-hat shear connectors on the strength of cold-formed steel-concrete composite beams
Authors: Abbas Zaid Mohammed , Abbas Najla’a Hameed
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed brief analysis of recent developments in various aspects of the structure of cold-formed steel. The connectors were executed from sections of a non-weld able top-hat profile (70×80×3)mm made of steel plate. The connectors were fastened to the beam with two bolts with diameter of 10mm. Totally twelve simply supported composite beam specimens are tested under two loading points to determine the flexural strength. The twelve composite beams with different thickness (2,3, and 4) mm and connection between channel(L/3, L/6) are tested. With a constant depth and a variable length of 2 and 1.5 m, the cross-section shape of the beams was maintained. The cold formed steel channel section with top hat connector at compression side is used. To avoid slip and to transfer horizontal shear between cold formed steel and concrete, the shear connectors are provided. The top hat connectors were used as shear connector between concrete and steel section. The load-deflection behavior, ultimate flexural load and failure pattern of beam had been studied. The experimental results indicate that, the load carrying capacity of the composite beams with thickness of 4mm and connection between channel with L/6 is more than the other specimen with different thicknesses and connections. The mid-span deflection at ultimate load for the composite beams was reduced in case of beam has connection L/6 and thickness 4mm. It was observed that, the steel-concrete composite beams failed due to flexural.
Behavior of Eccentrically Loaded Slender Concrete Columns Reinforced with GFRP Bars
Authors: Al-Thairy Haitham , Al-Hamzawi Marwa Azeez
Published: August 2021

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the behaviour of concrete columns reinforced with glass fibre reinforced polymers GFRP bars under concentric and eccentric loads. Six RC column specimens have been considered in the experimental tests with a cross section dimension of (135 mm × 135mm) at the middle portion of columns and (250 mm × 135 mm) (width ×depth) at the corbel with a total length of 1150 mm with the length between corbels (middle part) was 710 mm. Three specimens have been represented the reference specimens which are reinforced with steel bars and the other three were reinforced with GFRP bars. Tow variables have been considered in the experimental tests: the type of reinforcement (GFRP and steel) and the eccentricity ratio (e/h). All columns have been subjected to different values of eccentricity ratio (e/h): 0, 0.5, and 1. It has been concluded that the ultimate load capacity of columns reinforced with GFRP bars decreases by about 27.13% and 94.67% compared to columns reinforced with steel bars under eccentricity ratios (e/h=0) and (e/h =0.5), respectively. Whereas, ultimate load increases by about (4.79%) for the columns reinforced with GFRP bars compared to columns reinforced with steel bars at eccentricity ratios (e/h=1). The result have also shown that all specimens that have been subjected to eccentricity ratio (e/h > 0) failed by compression failure.
Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Brackets Strengthened with Steel Fiber
Authors: Abdul-Alhassan Safa Mohammed , Kadhim Muhammad Jawad
Published: August 2021

An experimental investigation into the structural behavior of brackets with plain and fibrous concrete and in the presence of steel bars is addressed in this research. Both brackets have the same shape and dimensions. Testing of nine steel fibrous reinforcement concrete specimens and one reinforced concrete with compressive strength (28.6) MPa under vertical repeated load. The test results in terms of load versus deflection curves, stiffness, ductility and crack patterns show the effectiveness of using steel fibrous concrete to ensure a superior strength and deformation capacity in reinforced concrete bracket. Test results showed that, addition of steel fibers (1.5) % by volume of concrete and horizontal stirrups improve both shear strength and ductility of the tested brackets, and results in a more ductile failure mode.
Flexural Strength of Fibrous Light-Weight Self-Compacted Concrete beams
Authors: Alkhattat Saga S. , Al-Ramahee Munaf A.
Published: August 2021

In this research, the effect of using steel fiber and polypropylene on the behavior of the lightweight self-compacting concrete (LWSCC) beams have been studied. Seven beams have been cast with different parameters and compared. Two ratios of coarse aggregate replacement with light-weight aggregate expanded clay (LECA) have been considered partially and full replacement (50% and 100%) in this study based on previous study. Also, a 1% volumetric ratio fiber reinforcement has been added to investigate its effect on the flexural performance of LWSCC. A reduction in the ultimate load capacity and stiffness have been observed for LWSCC beams compared with the control beam by about 19% and 24.8% for partial and full LECA replacement, respectively. The steel fiber enhanced the performance of LWSCC beams in terms of cracking formation, crack width, ultimate capacity and allow the beams to have more ductile behavior. The ultimate load for fibrous LWSCC has been increased by about 11% and 12% for partial and full LECA replacement compared to beams without fibers. Beams with polypropylene and steel fibers exhibit similar behavior to the beams with steel fiber only in term of load-vertical displacement curves. However, the difference in the ultimate load capacity were 4% and 5% for the partial and full LECA replacement, respectively.
Numerical analysis of ultimate load and crack propagation in a concrete beam with longitudinal small hole
Authors: Abdulridha Shereen Qasim , Abeer S Z , Nasr Mohammad S. , Waleed Adil Abdulameer
Published: August 2021

This analytical study aims to investigate the flexural behavior of simply supported RC beams having longitudinal hole with circle cross section under monotonic two point loads. The commercial FE program ABAQUS was used for simulating and implementing the specimens behavior that tested experimentally in previous researches. The overall specimens investigated were thirteen RC rectangular beam specimen, the first one was solid while the others with longitudinal circular hole. The specimens with holes divided into three groups, each one has a specified hole diameter 25 mm, 40 mm, and 50 mm. The distance from center of hole to the top section face was variable where the hole would be completely in the stress block, below it, or partially within it. The validity of the simulated model were verified by comparing the available load deflection data with the implemented one, where good agreement were noticed. The simulated models could introduce the ultimate load, first cracking load and its propagation in addition to the maximum attended deflection. It is concluded that the existence of a longitudinal hole with a percentage of diameter to beam depth ratio below 20% with different positions from top surface of the cross-section to the center of the hole values caused decreasing in ultimate load not exceeding 5% compared with the solid beam.
Composite reinforced concrete beam of embedded double skin steel plates
Authors: Jabbar Fatima Sattar , Resan Sa’ad Fahad
Published: August 2021

The study intends to develop double skin composite beams using smart utilizing of proper properties of concrete and steel by incorporating steel frame likewise ribbed I-Steel section within concrete. The adopted built-up steel frame consists of upper and lower mild steel flanges connected by ribs using deformed steel bars and equivalent to customary shear reinforcement in quantity and provided as ribs within target frame besides shear resistance. The study considered an experimental program to investigate the effectiveness of introduces mode upon ultimate strength and related issues such as flexural ductility, flexural stiffness, plastic hinge formation, and failure mechanism in addition to comparative analysis with traditional reinforced concrete beam in the scope of assigned structural characteristics. The experimental results exhibit that the incorporated double skin steel within concrete without flexural reinforcement exhibited 78% of RC model ultimate strength where the ratio of volume fraction in steel-concrete-steel to reinforcement ratio in reinforced concrete beam is (1.5064). The powerful observed enhancement of the proposed ribbed I-steel section could be related to fully skin friction provided by fully connected upper and lower steel plates that affect the concrete confinement positively.
Traffic Performance Evaluation for Selected Streets within the Southern Part of Al-Najaf City Network
Authors: Al Ghanim Ali M. K. , Asad Firas H. A. , Al-Jameel Hamid A. E.
Published: August 2021

Urban streets are essential parts in cities and their development can enhance various aspects of economic life and social activities. Al-Najaf city is one of the Iraqi developing cities that has been suffering from traffic congestion at various sections of its street network. The reasons, locations and intensities of these congestions are important to be regularly diagnosed for two key reasons: first, in order to choose the right traffic engineering solutions and second to adequately prioritize the funding required for planning and implementing the traffic management programs for these congested sections. This paper attempts to evaluate the performance of the main urban streets located within the southern part of Al-Najaf city street network during evening peak hours. The methodology includes collecting field data and conducting traffic surveys such as traffic volume, travel time and free flow speed surveys. The evaluating approaches illustrated in the U.S Highway Capacity Manual are adopted as a tool for assessing the operational performance for the selected urban streets. The results reveal that there are several segments that operate at their capacity (LOS E) or even under congested flow condition (LOS F). The analysis also shows that whereas some segments are with good LOS using volume-capacity ratio (v/c) criterion, they are actually with low LOS based on field observations or when using travel time as a performance measure. This indicates the inadequacy of using v/c ratio alone in evaluating urban streets because part of the congestion at such streets is due to side friction operational delays rather than over traffic demand.
Effect of different parameters on coefficient of friction between rigid pavement and subbase layer
Authors: Aboaljus Thulfiqar A , Banyhussan Qais S , Mohammed Mohammed H , Al-Fahdawi Jasim Z
Published: August 2021

The coefficient of friction is a quantity indicates the ratio of frictional force between objects. As pavement experiences thermal changes, it may slide against supporting subbase resistance. This resistance must be determined in order for pavement to perform as anticipated. Cracking of concrete does not occur if the pavement is jointed. In the joint plain concrete pavements, A separator layer is installed between the subbase and the plate to smooth the interface. A smooth surface shows less resistance to the concrete’s displacement caused by temperature difference. Two stages of the push-off test were conducted for subbase conditions (smooth and rough). Friction properties among the concrete and subbase were investigated based on the friction test results. The results show the parameters impacting the maximum coefficient of friction and displacement (interface condition, movement rate, thickness) respectively for friction and (movement rate, interface condition, thickness) for displacement. In conclusion, the frictional force rises significantly until the applied force reaches the stable condition. This force is affected by interface condition, which has the most significant impact, followed by movement rate and thickness. Changing conditions from smoother to rougher interface leads to raising maximum coefficient of friction regardless of changing slab thickness or movement rate.
Studying the Early Cracking Behavior of Asphalt Concrete Base Course
Authors: Al-Reweshdy Alaa Imad , Al-Jumaili Mohammed Abbas
Published: August 2021

In Iraq, there are some asphalt concrete mixtures suffer from appearing of cracking and deformation immediately after finishing the construction of a base course. In the flexible pavement, the pavement is considered to be degraded after opening to traffic by repeated traffic loading, climatic conditions, aging of asphalt mixture, etc. Crack plays a critical mode in pavement degradation. Several experimental studies have been carried out to gain a deeper understanding of the environment and weak construction monitor the action of pavement fractures. However, one downside of these previous studies was that the majority of them were carried out in a laboratory environment. A trial road section was studied after finishing base course construction by monitoring the early cracking. The major causes of appearing the early cracking have been investigated and debated. In this survey, three trial road sections with defined asphalt layers were considered. These trial sections were constructed with local materials brought from Nasrya refinery and Najaf quarry. On the basis of the findings obtained, two sections have deteriorated, while the third one was made as control for comparison purposes The observed early cracking could be attributed to the asphalt cement type and poor construction procedure occurring in an asphalt base layer as a result of low underlying sub-base course type and specifications.
Coupling Visual Simulation Model (VISSIM) with Surrogate Safety Assessment Model (SSAM) to Evaluate Safety at Signalized Intersections.
Authors: Abed Hussein Mahdi , Ewadh Hussein Ali
Published: August 2021

Traffic safety is the main support of transportation engineering. Otherwise, there is no benefit to a facility that lacks safety. Despite that, most road engineers in developing countries ignore traffic safety in their designs or adopt traditional methods that suffer from data weakness. So there is an urgent need for surrogate measures more accurate from traditional methods. This paper offers an assessment of safety at signalized intersections in Hilla city’s urban areas using a micro-simulation model (VISSM) coupled with the Surrogate Safety Assessment Model (SSAM). Three signalized intersections are modeled using the micro-simulation VISSM (version 10) model by calculating the traffic flows and speeds extracted from field data. Also, geometric characteristics and timing of the signal are simulated to reach the real-world. Then the vehicle trajectory files are exported to SSAM (version 3). Several indicators for traffic conflicts are computed by SSAM, involving the max speeding (Max S), the rate of deceleration (DR), the time of post encroachment (PET), and time to collision (TTC). The number, type, and severity of conflicts are calculated. The conflicts are categorized into three types according to the conflict’s angle, rear-end, lane change, and crossing conflicts. The results showed that the optimal values for the two safety indicators at intersections differ from one location to another, where TTC values ranged between (1.5-1.8) s and PET (4.7-5.3) s. Rear-end conflicts prevailed in all sites until their reached 55% of all conflicts. The severity of the conflicts at approaches varied from 0.74 as a high-risk collision to 1.8 as a low-risk collision, while the (TTCI) values for 40 St and Bab Al Hussein intersections were 0.86 and 0.82.respectively. Therefore, they are both classified as high-risk intersections. As for the Bab Al-Mashed intersection (TTCI=1.23), it is classified as moderate risk.
Evaluation of Al-Najaf road networks connectivity and Spatial Pattern
Authors: Hussein Gofran Ali , Al-Jameel Hamid Athab , Yahya Ahmed
Published: August 2021

Road network development is a key factor in developing any region in these days. The correct connectivity and the right orientation are needed in an urgent way in order to make a development to road network. However, the attention that is given to the development of the road network especially in the urban areas is insufficient. Thus, the analysis of the road network in the city of Al-Najaf is the main focus of this paper. Beta, Gama, Eta indices and other measures such as spreading index, correlation index were adopted in this study in order to assess the road network for the city. The main findings of this study are that there is an urgent need to improve the road network, and one way to do this is constructing new roads. Lastly, a better prediction to the network can be given by measuring the density of the city road network.
Simulation of Thermal Pollution at Tigris River due to Al- Dora Power Plant
Authors: Mahmood Noor Shakir , Mohammad Thamer Ahmad
Published: August 2021

Thermal water pollution is a cost saving in cooling process for the electrical industry but it has negative effect on environment. When thermal water is released from power plants into water bodies, it is harmful to marine life. High temperature reduces aerobic decomposition. As organic matter degrades, the amount of nutrients in water bodies is diminished. The study propose a solution to reduce the thermal effect of plant water using the CFD comsol software. The results shows that a change in the width of the channel of the plant hot water to 10 m reduce the thermal effect of the hot water plant, which leads to less environmental effect.
Design of Transformerless Single Stage Double Switch Step Down PLL Derived Inverter using Single Phase Grid Connected PV Module with MPP Tracking
Authors: Vijayaprabhu A , Bhaskar K B , Rajavelu M , jehan N
Published: August 2021

Here we propose a single stage double switch (SSDS) converter for single phase grid connected photo voltaic inverter step-down module, the structure is designed and modelled to a highly reliable step-down buck DC-DC converter and robust from the input derived from the PV module. The proposed PV module uses perturb and observe algorithm reference voltage to gain the maximum power in different changing climatic conditions. The grid is designed for 110 V/50 Hz, since it’s a low frequency, the utilization of heavy and expensive transformer is avoided, In a grid connected systems usually transformer is employed in the power conversion stage to provide sudden isolation between the PV system and the grid, and also ensures that no continuous current is injected into the grid by avoiding leakage currents between the PV module and the ground. As a choice to the grid connected module with line transformer, a transformer less inverter topology is discussed, to avoid the leakage currents possibly occurring due to the capacitance between the PV array and ground, an inverter topology with PLL is proposed to avoid common mode voltage and the increase in electromagnetic emissions. This paper provides a highly efficient transformer less photovoltaic grid topology with reduced switches and has been validated by simulation.
Machine Learning Methods for Marine Systems
Authors: Thangalakshmi Dr S , Sivasami Dr K
Published: August 2021

Automation plays a key role in shipping industry and aims towards minimal operating staff. However, the effective automation relies on effective controlling at various levels starting from shipbuilding to navigation. The industry is currently focussing on autonomous shipping which actually requires precise controlling. Although many conventional methods are available for control and automation with regard to automation, Artificial Intelligence Schemes (AIS) are widely attracting the maritime sector because of their benefits. The AIS along with fuzzy logic systems are offering promising results. The emerging use of AIS in a variety of maritime applications can act as a reference wpoint for new researchers. This paper aims to conduct a valid AIS study and to examine the various machine learning approaches used in various maritime applications. It is possible to achieve complete automation in the shipping industry by implementing a related technique.
Review and Comparison of Various Types of Generation Using WECS Topologies
Authors: Vijayaprabhu A , Bhaskar K B , Jasmine susila D , Dinesh M
Published: August 2021

Increasing in the power demand for day to day life, apart from fossil fuels wind energy conversion system (WECS) contributes largely, small wind turbines (SWT) and off shore installations become popular and with the continual research newly designed efficient generators and power converter design new wind turbine models are expected to launch in the recent years. At present WECS operates at fixed speed and variable speed drives using induction generator principle, such that Squirrel cage induction generators (SCIG) and Doubly fed induction generators have a geared operation, Permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) goes gearless. In elaborate the comparisons, advantages and drawbacks of various WECS is discussed in this work.
Fenton-like catalytic oxidation of o-cresol wastewater by H2O2 over Fe2O3/AC catalysts
Authors: Liu Junyi , Xie Hao , Hu Xuetao
Published: August 2021

A series of high specific surface Fe2O3/AC catalysts for the Fenton-like catalytic oxidation of o-cresol wastewater was designed. The catalytic performance due to the characteristics of high specific surface area, large pore volume, high chemical stability and dispersive activity center. Under the suitable reaction conditions, the Fe2O3/AC with 3 wt.% Fe2O3 loading catalyst can run efficiently and continuously for 500 h without being deactivated, meanwhile the removal efficiency of COD can still be maintained above 59%, even the activity of the catalyst can remain above 79%. As a result, this kind of high specific surface Fe2O3/AC catalysts used in the heterogeneous Fenton-like catalytic oxidation of o-cresol wastewater has a great potential for industrial application.
Nano-CaCO3 synthesis by tangential jet from carbide slag
Authors: Mao Shuaidong , Yan Liu , Ting-An Zhang
Published: August 2021

The nano calcium carbonate with a smaller particle size is prepared by carbide slag in the improved tangential jet-reactor, and is characterized by means of SEM, XRD, and the specifics surface area. The results show that the particle agglomeration is mainly positively related to the calcium hydroxide saturation and liquid flow rate. And the particle size is correlated with liquid flow rate and carbon dioxide flow rate and concentration. And the sample obtained in the improved tangential jet-reactor has a smaller particle size than the bottom jet-reactor under the same conditions. Moreover, the specific area of calcium carbonate prepared under the optimal condition has increased from 8.3065 m2 g−1 to 11.3829 m2 g−1, and the particle size reduces from 266 nm to 199 nm by 27%.
Superfluidity created in 2D gas
Authors: Cartlidge Edwin
Published: August 2021

Researchers have shown superfluidity in a confined 2D gas of lithium atoms – a result that could help our understanding of high-temperature superconductors, as Edwin Cartlidge reports
Infrared device could make objects invisible to thermal cameras
Authors: Jarman Sam
Published: August 2021

A thermal-cloaking technique that can hide warm objects from infra-red cameras has been proposed by researchers in France, the US and the UK
UNESCO report highlights science spending disparity
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: August 2021

Worldwide spending on science increased by 19% from 2014 to 2018 while the number of scientists grew by 13.7% during that time.
Well versed
Authors: Bevan John
Published: August 2021

In response to articles in the June issue by Anna Starkey (pp34–38), Philip Ball (pp48–49) and Joanne O’Meara (p56), in which they discuss the power of art to visualize physics, the reformulation of physics as laws about what is and is not possible, and the value of humour in teaching.
Practical projectiles
Authors: White Colin
Published: August 2021

In response to Chanda Prescod-Weinstein’s Forum article “Imposter Intuition” (June p21), in which she discusses the causes of imposter syndrome and the value of the outsider’s perspective.
Degrees of change
Authors: Scaife Adam
Published: August 2021

In response to Peter Dryburgh’s request for an explanation in Physics World of the modelling basis for the prediction of climate change (May p26)
A-3 Cingulo-Opercular and Frontoparietal Control Network Connectivity and Executive Functioning in Older Adults
Authors: Hausman Hanna K , Hardcastle Cheshire , Albizu Alejandro , Kraft Jessica N , Evangelista Nicole D , Boutzoukas Emanuel M , Langer Kailey G , O'Shea Andrew , Van Etten Emily , Bharadwaj Pradyumna K , Song Hyun , Smith Samantha G , Porges Eric S , DeKosky Steven , Hishaw Georg A , Wu Samuel , Marsiske Michael , Cohen Ronald A , Alexander Gene E , Woods Adam J
Published: August 2021

Objective

Executive functioning is a cognitive domain that typically declines with normal aging. Age-related disrupted connectivity in cingulo-opercular (CON) and frontoparietal control (FPCN) resting-state networks is associated with worse performance across various executive functioning tasks. This study examines the relationships between CON and FPCN connectivity and executive functioning performance in older adults across three subdomains: working memory, inhibition, and set-shifting.

Methods

274 healthy older adults (age M = 71.7, SD = 5.1; 87% Caucasian) from a clinical trial at the University of Florida and University of Arizona completed tasks of working memory (Digit Span Backwards [DSB]; Letter Number Sequencing [LNS]), inhibition (Stroop), and set-shifting (Trail Making Test Part B [TMT-B]). Participants underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. CONN Toolbox (18b) was used for extracting average within-network connectivity of CON and FPCN. Multiple linear regressions were conducted with average network connectivity predicting performance, controlling for age, sex, education, and scanner.

Results

Greater average CON connectivity was associated with better performance on DSB (β = 0.26, p < 0.001), LNS (β = 0.23, p < 0.001), Stroop (β = 0.24, p < 0.001), and TMT-B (β = −0.26, p < 0.001). Greater average FPCN connectivity was associated with better performance on DSB (β = 0.22, p < 0.001) and LNS (β = 0.18, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

CON connectivity was significantly associated with working memory, inhibition, and set-shifting. FPCN connectivity was significantly associated with working memory. Future research should conduct regional connectivity analyses within these networks to identify intervention targets to improve executive functioning in older adults.
A-7 Improving Brain-Behavior Health in Pediatric Survivors of ECMO
Authors: Holder Christen , Shappley Rebekah , Karmarkar Swati , Poplos Constance , Sandhu Hitesh , Shah Samir
Published: August 2021

Objective

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a lifesaving measure associated with developmental delays and disabilities among survivors. While guidelines recommend follow-up care for ECMO survivors, children miss care due to the lack of standardized follow-up programs and formalized medical homes. We identified deficiencies in follow-up and developed a novel, structured program at a tertiary care children’s hospital called Standardizing Therapies after ECMO program (STEp) for ECMO survivors.

Methods

An IRB approved program, STEp was implemented in 2017. If consented, a STEp physician formally evaluated the patient’s post ECMO needs, ordered necessary consults, provided parental education and a letter to pediatrician describing patient’s likely long term medical needs and entered patient in a structured post-discharge follow-up program. We conducted a retrospective chart review to collect data prior to and after implementation of the program in 2017.

Results

There were 33 survivors in the pre-STEp period (2011–16) and 46 survivors in the STEp period (2017–2020). Consent was provided for STEp in 40 patients (87%). The referral rate improved in all necessary specialties (audiology, PT/OT, Neurology). Neuropsychology evaluation referrals improved from 42% to 58% and the timely evaluation improved from 50% to 100%. 35% of the patients evaluated by neuropsychology in the STEp period were diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental/neurocognitive disorder and thus received appropriate therapies.

Conclusions

Implementation of a standardized follow-up program for ECMO is feasible and can be implemented successfully. STEp demonstrates that with a structured post-ECMO follow-up program, ECMO survivors can receive appropriate neuropsychological evaluations consistently, thereby identifying potential problems and treatment options.
A-83 Neuropsychological Outcomes in Two COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Ostroy Elena , Campbell Irma
Published: August 2021

Objective

The cases describe neuropsychological functioning in a 55-year-old male and 37-year-old female with a history of COVID-19 illness. While COVID-19-related cognitive and psychological impairments are documented, long-term outcomes are not well understood as few case studies exist. The present case studies add to the growing body of literature describing the neuropsychological profile and outcomes in patients with a history of COVID-19 illness at 3 to 12 months post-illness.

Method

Both patients had confirmed COVID-19 illness with symptoms including fever, headache, ageusia, anosmia, and fatigue. An MRI/DTI/MRS of the brain showed significant changes for both patients. Self-reported cognitive symptoms at the initial evaluation (3 to 6 months post-illness) included problems with memory and attention for both patients. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and irritability were reported.

Results

On the initial assessment, both patients showed decline in learning and memory. One patient showed additional decline in attention, executive functions, and processing speed. Symptoms of depression and anxiety were elevated in both patients. Following the initial evaluation, one patient participated in formal cognitive remediation. At the five to ten month follow-up, both patients reported improvements in cognition and psychological functioning. Neurocognitive testing showed improvements across most cognitive domains though residual deficits were noted for one patient in memory and executive functions. Emotionally, symptoms of anxiety and depression remained elevated.

Conclusions

Results add to the growing body of literature on the course of cognitive decline following COVID-19 illness. While significant cognitive recovery occurs within several months, residual cognitive and emotional problems can remain measurable up to a year post-illness.
A-85 Differences in Cerebral Blood Perfusion with Individuals Diagnosed with Cluster B Personality Disorders
Authors: Sydow D'anna , Amen Daniel , Willeumier Kristen , Arias Brittny , Golden Charles J , McDonald Bailey , Peart Zachary , Spagna Samantha
Published: August 2021

Objective

To identify regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) differences between individuals with DSM-IV diagnosis of Cluster B Personality Disorders (PDB) and healthy controls.

Method

Healthy controls (n = 81, Mage = 41.9, 53.0% female, 42.0% Caucasian) and persons diagnosed by psychiatric examination with PDB (n=, Mage = 34.12, 71.5% female, 69.8% Caucasian) were selected from a deidentified adult clinical outpatient database. Those with comorbid diagnoses were included. Significant differences (alpha = 0.005) were found for age [t(195) = −3.62], gender [χ2(2) = 7.1], and race [χ2(12) = 23.82] between groups. Mean age [t(523) = 2.09, p = 0.037) and gender [t(532) = −2.653, p = 0.008] different significantly between groups. No significant mean difference was found for education [t(523) = 0.832, p = 0.406].

Results

Significant rCBF differences were noted in the cerebellum [left:F(1,192) = 10.5; right:F(1,192) = 4.6], limbic system [left:F(1,192) = 7.8; right:F(1,192) = 5.0], and basal ganglia [left:F(1,192) = 12.3; right:F(1,192) = 6.7]. Group means comparisons indicated higher perfusion in the cerebellum for the PDB group. Lower perfusion was found in the limbic system and basal ganglia in the PDB group.

Conclusion

Results observed in this study are concurrent with previous literature. PDB demonstrates higher activity in the cerebellum which contains inhibitory neurotransmitters, like Purkinje cells. The increased blood flow to cerebellar circuits may be related to the explicit self-recognition of negative emotion reported in PDB. Hypoperfusion found in the limbic system could be linked to impaired emotional responses. Apathy experienced in PDB may be accounted for by the low perfusion in the highly dopaminergic pathway in the basal ganglia. Further research should assess how different comorbidities with PDB affect perfusion.
A-90 Personality Tests in Neuropsychological Assessment: Determining the Presence of Psychotic and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders in 3 Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Torsney Kathleen
Published: August 2021

Objective

The assessment of personality and psychopathology in an individual who has symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be a challenging task due to the overlap of characteristic behaviors associated with ASD and markers of psychopathology. Through the examination of key factors in 3 case studies of neuropsychological assessments, this poster outlines steps to facilitate the correct diagnosis of psychiatric disorders in persons with autism spectrum disorder.

Method

This poster explores 3 case studies in which an individual exhibited signs of a psychiatric disorder as well as ASD. The author describes how the personality tests such as the MMPI-2 and MMPI-RF were administered and interpreted and how case history and test taking behavior affected the understanding of the results.

Results

The poster highlights critical factors in differentiating psychiatric disorders and symptoms that are part of the ASD. For example, in all 3 case studies, the individuals had significant difficulty with the computerized version of the test and needed to take it with paper and pencil. The author also outlines examples where the symptoms are manifestations of the ASD, such as perseveration and rigid thinking and when they are attributable to an obsessive–compulsive disorder. Further, the author differentiates signs of psychosis in a person with ASD from the typical tangential and circumstantial speech associated with ASD.

Conclusion

The author offers suggestions for administering personality tests to persons with ASD, for interpreting the results of the tests, and for conducting future research to facilitate the differentiation between symptoms consistent with ASD and with psychopathology.
A-98 Public Misconceptions about Concussion Are Not Improved by Standard Post-Injury Advice
Authors: Sullivan Karen , Kinmond Sally , Jaganathan Kannan Singaravelu
Published: August 2021

Objective

Insufficient public knowledge of concussion is thought to contribute to poor injury recognition and management, particularly in community sports. It is not clear whether such knowledge can be improved by standard post-injury discharge advice. This study determined if a widely used concussion leaflet would improve concussion knowledge in a community sample of adults.

Method

Prospective, controlled study, with random allocation to advice conditions. One hundred and ninety-nine Australian adults received either concussion (CA, n = 101) or non-concussion advice (NCA, n = 98). All volunteers completed the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey (RoCKAS) on three occasions (baseline, immediately post-advice, and after a one-week delay). Standard scores were derived, including for the 25-item Concussion Knowledge Index.

Results

A 2 (condition) X 3 (occasion) mixed ANOVA did not find a statistically significant interaction or any main effects on concussion knowledge (p < 0.05). On all three occasions, both groups obtained a RoCKAS total score of ~80% correct; but they also held some key misconceptions about concussion.

Conclusions

Compared to giving non-concussion information, public knowledge of concussion was not significantly improved by the concussion advice. The leaflet may not have conveyed the information needed to improve test scores, or the baseline performance of the groups could have suppressed the effect. Since correct injury recognition and management relies on community knowledge, alternate means of improving public knowledge of concussion should be explored. Concussion advisories should also be reviewed to ensure they can correct public misconceptions about concussion.
A-104 Examining Methods of Executive Ability from Trail Making Test Part B in Retired Football Players
Authors: Lopez-Hernandez Daniel W , Nordberg Bethany A , Bueno Alexis , Litvin Pavel Y , Bichlmeier Amy , Smith Kristina E , Olmos Winter , Sidhu Jasman , Saravia Sarah , Mangassarian Selina , Fatoorechi Sarah , Hardy David , Woo Ellen , Schmitter-Edgecombe Maureen , Cantu Robert C , Guskiewicz Kevin M , Kelly Daniel F , Swerdloff Ronald , Wright Matthew J
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Repeated sports-related concussions have been associated with cognitive deficits, similar to other forms of traumatic brain injury. We investigated three different measures of executive ability derived from the Trail Making Test part B (TMT-B) in healthy comparison (HC) adults and retired football players.

Methods

The sample consisted of 32 HC, 15 retired football speed players (FSP; e.g., quarterbacks), and 53 retired football non-speed players (FNP) participants. Participants were administered both TMT part A (TMT-A) and TMT-B, and total time for completion was recorded. A series of ANCOVAs, controlling for age and education were conducted to evaluate group differences in executive abilities. Executive measures included the TMT-B raw score (i.e., seconds to complete TMT-B), the raw score difference (in seconds) between TMT-A and TMT-B (TMT-BA), and the difference between a predicted TMT-B score (TMT-BP) and the obtained TMT-B score (TMT-BBP). Correlations between TMT-B, TMT-BA, and TMT-BBP and other executive functioning tests (i.e., letter fluency and animal naming) were evaluated.

Results

Results revealed that the HC group outperformed both retired football player groups on all measures of executive ability derived from TMT-B, p’s < 0.05, ηps2 = 0.18–0.45. Furthermore, the retired FNP TMT-B and TMT-BA were significantly correlated with both letter fluency and animal naming, r’s = −0.40 to −0.36, p’s < 0.05.

Discussion

We found that the HC group outperformed both retired football player groups on all three TMT variables. In our retired FNP sample, more TMT variables correlated with executive functioning measures which suggests that TMT-B and TMT-BA are likely better measures of executive ability than TMT-BBP.
A-107 Quantifying the Effect of Sleepiness and Mood on Gross Neuropsychological Functioning in a Forensic Population with a History of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Brown Sarka T , Gorgens Kimberly , Lehto Marybeth , Meyer Laura , Signoracci Gina
Published: August 2021

Objective

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health concern. Furthermore, inmates and probationers are at a higher risk for TBI, as well as mental health issues and sleepiness. Both sleep and mood disturbance have been linked to poor cognitive performance. These state-dependent cognitive changes can undermine the evaluation of true cognitive ability and contaminate validity. This study examined the effects of sleep and mood on neurocognitive functioning and its impact on the validity of assessment results.

Methods

This study looked at retrospective Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) core battery data. The sample included inmates and probationers (n = 419) with a history of TBI. A multiple linear regression was used to examine the relationship between self-reported sleepiness, mood state, and cognitive performance.

Results

All regression models were statistically significant, with negative mood being the most significant predictor of ANAM throughput scores (p = 0.000). Higher endorsement of negative mood states was related to lower cognitive performance overall (p = 0.003). Sleepiness predicted worse performance on at the end of the battery (p < 0.05), whereas positive mood predicted better performance at the beginning of the battery (p < 0.01).

Conslusion

The present study confirms that negative mood adversely affects global neurocognitive test performance in a forensic population. Examiners should be aware that sleepiness and mood states have an effect on test performance during even brief cognitive batteries. The current findings suggest that it is imperative to screen and identify sleepiness and negative mood symptoms as they may depress test results and threaten the validity or test interpretations and recommendations.
A-110 Post-Traumatic Growth in Relation to Quality of Life in Individuals with Moderate/Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Fedio Alison A , Dekarchuk Marina , Roper Carrie , Sexton James , Dinklocker Brandy , Campbell Kylie , Khandker Sadiya , Powdrill Karen , Priluck Jacob , Cummings Sharon , Fedio Paul
Published: August 2021

Objective

Post-traumatic growth (PTG) is known to benefit individuals in recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI) as they process and reframe personal losses. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship of PTG with different domains of quality of life (QOL) in individuals following TBI.

Method

Fifteen adults (8 M, 7 F; mean age 31; 4 yrs post moderate/severe TBI) composed a personal statement for 3 minutes. Raters identified references to TBI and PTG in patients’ writing samples. Patients completed the Neurobehavioral Functioning Inventory (NFI) to assess physical, cognitive, and emotional/behavioral functioning, as well as the QOL Inventory to assess importance of, and satisfaction with, various domains of personal functioning. Results of independent samples t-tests (p < 0.05 and/or Cohen’s d > 0.80) are reported.

Results

Patients scored in the average range on the NFI. Seven of the 15 patients opted to address PTG, and the same seven individuals also wrote about their TBI. Those who addressed these topics reported higher educational level and longer loss of consciousness following TBI. Demonstrating large effect sizes, results revealed individuals endorsing PTG had higher QOL in domains involving productivity and agency (work, helping, play, creativity), whereas those not endorsing PTG had higher QOL in social domains (children, neighbors, community). Total QOL and other domains (e.g., health, money, love) did not differ between groups.

Conclusions

Results suggest that benefits of accepting and growing as a result of one’s brain injury include active self-development and contributions to society. Neurorehabilitation should encourage productivity as a means of enhancing PTG.
A-112 Examining the Utility of the New Dot Counting Test Cut-off Score in Latinx and Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Saravia Sarah , Lopez-Hernandez Daniel W , Baez Abril J , Muñoz Isabel , Olmos Winter , Rugh-Fraser Rachel A , Sidhu Jasman , Litvin Pavel Y , Budding Deborah , Hovda David A , Vespa Paul , Fuster Joaquin M , Woo Ellen , Hardy David J , Boone Kyle B , Wright Matthew J
Published: August 2021

Objective

The Dot Counting Test (DCT) is a performance validity test. McCaul et al. (2018) recently revised the DCT cut-off score from ≥17 to 13.80; we evaluated the new cut-off in non-Latinx Caucasian and Caucasian Latinx traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors and healthy comparison (HC) participants.

Method

The sample consisted of 37 acute TBI (ATBI; 11 Caucasian Latinx; 26 non-Latinx Caucasian), 27 chronic TBI (CTBI; 10 Caucasian Latinx; 17 non-Latinx Caucasian), and 55 HC (29 Caucasian Latinx; 26 non-Latinx Caucasian) participants.

Results

An ANCOVA, controlling for age, revealed no DCT E-scores differences between groups. Both the conventional and the new cut-off scores had different failure rates in ATBI (conventional cut-off: 0%; PNC: 16%), CTBI (conventional cut-off: 7%; PNC: 15%), and HC (conventional cut-off: 10%; PNC: 11%) participants. For the Caucasian Latinx group (conventional cut-off: 6%; PNC: 12%) and the non-Latinx Caucasian group (conventional cut-off: 6%; PNC: 14%), demonstrated different failure rates across cut-off scores. Group differences were found with the McCaul et al. (2018) cut-off and the conventional cut-off. Also, chi-squared analysis revealed non-Latinx Caucasian participants with ATBI had greater failure rates than Caucasian Latinx participants with ATBI.

Conclusion

The new DCT cut-off score resulted in greater failure rates in TBI survivors. Also, this effect appears to be most pronounced in non-Latinx Caucasian persons with ATBI. Future work should investigate possible reasons for these differences so that more stringent DCT can be utilized in a way that provides less biased results for brain injury survivors across racial and ethnic groups.
A-13 Stepping into Action: The Role of Neuropsychologists in Social Justice Advocacy
Authors: Diaz-Santos Mirella , Anderson Kendra , Irani Farzin , Miranda Michelle , Wong Christina , Yanez Janet
Published: August 2021

Objective

The current pandemic shed a necessary light on chronic systemic inequities. Despite awareness of the importance of diversity, equity, social justice, and advocacy, actionable change has been slow. The field of neuropsychology and psychology were founded on principles of universal rights for all humans, yet it has largely neglected social justice activities. Social justice and advocacy efforts are not universally embedded in education/training curriculums, nor in licensure requirements. If the field is pledging to move towards equity, systemic change is required. We offer practical considerations on how advocacy can lead neuropsychologists toward equity and social justice.

Data Selection

A review of the literature on racism, social justice, and health/mental health disparities, was conducted in the fields of neuropsychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, medicine, and public health, to form a systems-based approach to advocacy with actionable steps that can be taken by all. Tenents of critical consciousness, transformative learning, transformative justice and socially responsible neuropsychology emerged.

Data Synthesis

We utilize an ecological systems framework (microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, and macrosystem levels) to provide a graded, developmental approach for transitioning to a social change agent. Recommendations are offered to provide guidance on addressing inequities at multiple levels in an effort to uphold human rights and protection of all.

Conclusion

Neuropsychology has the opportunity to blaze a new trail that can effectively protect, include, and nurture all of its constituents equitably rather than equally. Transforming our field is possible through stepping into action by equipping our trainees and professionals with the tools to become agents of social change.