bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Consumers’ Intention to Adopt Fashion Robot Advisors: Psychological Network Analysis
Authors: Song So Young , Kim Youn-Kyung
Published: July 2020

Drawing upon the theory of human–robot interaction (HRI), this study examined the relations among perceived characteristics of fashion robot advisors (FRAs), consumers’ negative preconceptions toward robots, and positive dispositions toward technology to identify network differences in adoption and nonadoption groups. For interviews, pretests, and main data collection, we presented video clips of FRAs as stimuli. Based on the data ( n = 464) collected via an online survey, we conducted psychological network analysis to explore defining factors that differentiate adoption and nonadoption groups. The results indicate that perceived characteristics of social intelligence, humanlikeness, and knowledgeableness combined with a positive disposition of technological self-efficacy lead to adoption of FRAs. This study contributes to the literature on the theory of HRI and technology acceptance models, particularly in fashion retail sectors. Furthermore, this study provides a new graphical approach to networks that conceptualizes shoppers’ adoption of technology as a complex interplay of psychological attributes.
Assessing the Impact of a Clinical Pharmacist in a Postsurgical Inpatient Population
Authors: Tavakoli Farrah C. , Adams-Sommer Victoria L. , Frendak Lynn S. , Kiehle Nicole D. , Dalpoas Stacy E.
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To quantify the number and type of clinical pharmacist interventions with an impact on patient care in a postsurgical nonintensive care patient population.

Background:

Studies have shown that pharmacists are able to improve the quality of patient care; however, the pharmacist role in postsurgical nonintensive care areas is not well defined.

Methods:

A clinical pharmacist provided care for 2 postsurgical floors for 2 weeks and collected information about the number and type of interventions made and adverse events avoided. In addition, the study team conducted an anonymous survey amongst the multidisciplinary team who collaborated with the pharmacist at the end of the trial period to understand the perception of having access to a clinical pharmacist who was designated to their floor.

Results:

In a 2-week time period, the clinical pharmacist was able to make 218 interventions, including 38 recommendations for optimization of antimicrobials, 26 recommendations for anticoagulation optimization, and providing education for 20 patients planned for discharge on high-risk medications. Interventions made by the clinical pharmacist helped decrease adverse events, improve patient safety and knowledge, and potentially avoid readmissions and reduce hospital length of stay. The survey results revealed that 100% strongly agreed that a clinical pharmacist should be a member of the multidisciplinary team for the postsurgical floors.

Conclusion:

This data signifies that having a clinical pharmacist dedicated to the postsurgical patient population allows for optimization of antimicrobial and anticoagulant use, improves outcomes for patients through medication education, and enhances provider satisfaction.
Investigation of leading-edge slat on aerodynamic performance of wind turbine blade
Authors: Chen Tao , Jiang Xiao , Wang Haipeng , Li Qian , Li Mingzhou , Wu Zhou
Published: July 2020

In this paper, the numerical simulation was used to investigate the effects of the leading-edge slat installation angles ( β for airfoils from 0° to 40° and β1 for blades from −20° to 40°) on the aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoil and the wind turbine blade. The chord length of the leading-edge slat is 0.1c (the chord length of the clean airfoil). The horizontal and vertical distances from its center to the leading edge of the clean airfoil are 0.005c and 0.009c, respectively. The results indicated that the lift coefficient could be significantly improved by the leading-edge slat (except β = 40°) when the attack angle exceeded 10.2°. For β = 0°, the lift coefficient increased the most. The trailing vortex of the leading-edge slat played an important role at the process of flow control. It could transfer kinetic energy from the bounder layer to its out-flow region. Furthermore, the vorticities of trailing vortex generated by the leading-edge slat with different installation angles were different, promoting several effects on the airfoil at the different cases. The torque of the blade with leading-edge slat (except β1 = −20°) was improved significantly as the leading-edge slat trailing-vortices became stronger with the higher wind-speeds.
A dynamic dimensional accumulation with propagations of part mating gaps for series-parallel assembly operations
Authors: Ni Jun , Liu Rui , Sun Yu
Published: July 2020

The changing spring-back effects of part mating gaps restrict the control of the overall dimensional error for the parts assembled by many sequential and parallel processes. So far, it has been merely adjusted by component positions or compensated by some joining processes, which is still limited and lack of a theory and tool for the general dynamic process. To obtain the dimensional response of current assembly when the part contacts with the other, this paper proposes algebraic modelling for dimensional error accumulations that organize the propagation through every part. A new contact graph firstly expresses the part liaisons. Then, a variable array encodes the displacements and the time when each contact finishes, which yields algebraic theorems for the conversion of contact graph to algebraic expression, and for estimating dimensional distortions. If propagations take finite element methods, the algebraic expression outputs the coupled spring-back effects for the current assembled parts that support both variation and tolerance analyses. The dynamic accumulation with propagations is validated by case studies, and the comparison indicates that the assembly with the largest number of parallel modes has the highest nonlinear variations caused by locating errors.
An effective topology optimization method for crashworthiness of thin-walled structures using the equivalent linear static loads
Authors: Ren Chun , Min Haitao , Ma Tianfei , Wang Fangquan
Published: July 2020

The equivalent static loads method for nonlinear dynamic response structural optimization may be failed in large deformation crash conditions, due to topology optimization with the equivalent static loads mostly beyond the linear range and causing numerical defects such as high compliance of elements. To overcome the above disadvantage, an advanced structural topology optimization method for crashworthiness considering crash-reduced large deformation and plastic buckling is proposed using newly defined equivalent linear static loads. The equivalent linear static loads can adaptively scale to guarantee that the topology optimization is performed within linear range. At each cycle, the crash simulation is performed and the nonlinear nodal displacement vector at the time step with the maximum strain energy is scaled by an adaptive displacement-scaling factor. The equivalent linear static loads that are generated by multiplying the linear stiffness matrix and the scaled nodal displacement vector will be incorporated into topology optimization, which can guarantee the topology optimization to remain in linear range and further solve the numerical instability problems. The process is repeated until the convergence criteria are satisfied. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated by solving a crashworthiness topology optimization of a crash box considering crash-induced plastic buckling to determine the location and profile of crash triggers. The results show that the proposed method can effectively solve the large deformation crashworthiness topology optimization of thin-walled structures and provides a feasible strategy for crash triggers design in crash box.
Hierarchical coordinated control distribution and experimental verification for six-wheeled unmanned ground vehicles
Authors: Prasad Rajan , Ma Yue , Wang Yu , Zhang Huimin
Published: July 2020

In recent years, the all-wheel independent drive has been the most promising form of drive configuration in unmanned ground vehicles. Considering the difficulties in the control allocation for this kind of vehicle, this paper presents a hierarchical control coordination strategy with three layers to distribute control in real time effectively and accurately. In the upper layer, a hybrid instruction parsing method is proposed, which converts commands of the control panel into driving force requirement and target steering yaw rate, respectively, to prioritize steering command to maintain the trajectory based on the motor properties. Subsequently, a sliding mode controller is employed to convert the target yaw rate into the required yaw moment. The state estimation layer receives data from the sensors and estimates different properties/parameters required in other layers. The lower-level control layer receives commands from the upper layer and allocates respective control to wheels. The control allocation problem has been formulated as an optimization problem and later has been converted into a quadratic programming problem, in which a novel modified barrier method with the combination of reduced equation dimension has been adopted to minimize the computational effort and complexity for implementation on the embedded platform. Computer simulation and field experiment have been conducted, which verify the performance of the proposed strategy.
Diagnosis of hydrous ethanol combustion in a spark-ignition engine
Authors: Rufino Caio H , Gallo Waldyr LR , Ferreira Janito V
Published: July 2020

By evaluating combustion duration and flame development, it is possible to evaluate the effects of utilizing a new type of fuel. This allows for optimization of the operational parameters such as the ignition timing, air–fuel ratio, and throttle opening with respect to efficiency, knock, emissions, and performance. In this work, the combustion of a Brazilian hydrous ethanol fuel was evaluated in a commercial flexfuel engine. Investigations were conducted by performing a heat release analysis of the experimental data and providing combustion characteristics. The experimental design comprised of variations in engine speed, load, ignition timing, and air–fuel ratio under lean condition. The results indicated the relationship between the engine parameters and combustion characteristics under a wide range of operational conditions, and identified the relationship between the physical characteristics of the fuels and their combustion in the commercial engine. For high engine speed, lean combustion presented a similar duration to the stoichiometric combustion duration. When comparing the combustion characteristics obtained for the hydrous ethanol with gasoline combustion, the main differences noted were reduced sensitivity to detonation and a shorter duration of combustion, although the temperature at the start of combustion was lower for ethanol. In addition to shorter combustion duration, ethanol presented a lower value for the Wiebe exponent. The results obtained from the combustion duration values and Wiebe function parameters enable the composition of a set of data required for a simplified combustion simulation.
Adaptive robust control for tank stability: A constraint-following approach
Authors: Ma Yuze , Yang Guolai , Sun Qinqin , Wang Xiuye , Sun Quanzhao
Published: July 2020

This article addresses a control problem for tank stability based on constraint following. The objective is to design a control to drive the tank stability control system to follow a pre-specified stability constraint approximately: with the consideration of (possibly) time-varying uncertainty (including system modeling error and road excitation), if the barrel deviates from the target angle, drive it to be arbitrarily close to the target angle; and if the barrel points to the target angle, drive it to stay there. This is formulated as a problem of approximate constraint-following control. First, as the model-based control design object, the dynamic equation of the tank stability control system with the system modeling error and the road excitation is obtained. Second, as the control objective, the stability constraint is formulated. Third, as the control strategy, an adaptive robust control is proposed for approximate constraint following. Fourth, as the control object, a virtual prototype model of tank driving on bumpy road is established with multi-body dynamics software RecurDyn. Finally, real-time servo control and target observation of the tank stability system are performed by co-simulation. It shows that the constraint-following error converges quickly to [Formula: see text] in 1.5 s. By this, the tank stability control system can be always stable even if the tank is driving and disturbed with frequent road excitation.
Characteristic investigation of a magnetostrictive fast switching valve for digital hydraulic converter
Authors: Chen Xiaoming , Zhu Yuchuan , Luo Zhang , Li Renqiang , Tai Minghao , Wu Changwen
Published: July 2020

In order to adapt the frequency requirements of fast switching valve applied to the digital hydraulic converter, a 2/2 way fast switching valve driven by giant magnetostrictive material was performed in this article. The finite element simulation of the fast switching valve’s electromagnetic field and flow field was carried out. In addition, the integrated analytical model of giant magnetostrictive material–fast switching valve coupling with enhanced transmission line method was built in MATLAB/Simulink. The displacement and pressure-flowrate characteristics of giant magnetostrictive material–fast switching valve were discussed and validated in the experiments. The results indicated that the nonlinearity magnetization presents a positive relationship with the driving current before it reaches the saturated state, and the hydraulic force at the expected opening is far less than output force caused by magnetostrictive strain. The experimental valve displacements are in good agreement with obtained results from analytical model, which reveals that the analytical model is accurate enough to predict the main performances of the fast switching valve. The maximum valve displacement without supply pressure is up to 68 µm, which attenuates moderately with the growth of supply pressure. The experimental responses of the displacement and the pressure of giant magnetostrictive material–fast switching valve are less than 1 ms. The amplitude of output flowrate is 8.1 L/min at the frequency of 100 Hz when the pressure drop across giant magnetostrictive material–fast switching valve is 6 MPa theoretically. Similarly, the maximum transient flowrate derived from experiments reaches 8.2 L/min at pressure drop across giant magnetostrictive material–fast switching valve of 5.9 MPa, which is basically consistent with that predicted by analytical model. These reveal that the giant magnetostrictive material–fast switching valve can be utilized in the digital hydraulic converter to improve the system’s efficiency.
A theory of temporal telepresence: Reconsidering the digital time collapse
Authors: Öhman Carl
Published: July 2020

This article focuses on the concept of ‘time collapse’ commonly used within scholarship on digital memory. Despite its intuitive appeal, I claim that the notion of a collapsed time leaves considerable room for conceptual ambiguity, which in turn hampers a deeper ethical analysis of the topic. In view of this ambiguity, the present article sets out to provide analytical rigor to, and thus unpack the ethical dimensions of, the notion of time collapse. Pursuing this goal, I introduce the concept of temporal friction, denoting informational resistance that makes moments of time perceivable as separate for an embodied epistemic agent. I argue that the concept of temporal friction offers a more flexible and precise interpretation of collapsed time, and draw on two examples – search warrants and the so-called digital remains – to illustrate its ethical significance.
Estimation of critical nitrogen contents in peach orchards using visible-near infrared spectral mixture analysis
Authors: Dedeoglu Mert
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study was to predict the critical nitrogen (N) content in peach trees using spectrometric measurements. A nutrient-controlled hydroponics experiment was designed for this purpose. Peach saplings were grown under three N conditions: deficient, sufficient, and excessive. The reflectance values of a plant leaves were measured using a handheld field spectroradiometer fitted with a plant probe. The N contents of leaves were determined in the laboratory and Gaussian mixture discriminant analysis (GMDA) was used to estimate N levels in the leaves from reflectance values. The N levels were categorized for each of the three different N conditions. The wavelengths at 425 nm, 574 nm, 696 nm, and 700 nm were found to be diagnostic of the different N levels. The model developed here classified the experimental plants with high accuracy for NDeficient, 89.28%; NSufficient, 96.30%; and NExcess, 71.42% with 85.71% coefficients. The reliability of the model was also tested under field conditions using 96 peach trees representing the three different N status. Leaves were analyzed by reflectance at 425 nm, 574 nm, 696 nm, and 700 nm, which functioned in real N, percentage classes determined based on the laboratory analyses of the orchard samples, and the data were categorized as NDeficient, NSufficient, and NExcess with a similarity ratio of 77.78%, 80%, and 67.74%, respectively with the general correct classification rate of 75%. The study findings showed that the model developed using hyperspectral reflectance data can discriminate different N nutritional status in plants with an accuracy of ≥70% and can be applied under field conditions. The results of this research provide a new perspective for future studies by showing that GMDA with hyperspectral remote sensing may be useful for the classification of different plant nutrient contents.
Mindfulness for musicians: A mixed methods study investigating the effects of 8-week mindfulness courses on music students at a leading conservatoire
Authors: Czajkowski Anne-Marie L. , Greasley Alinka E. , Allis Michael
Published: July 2020

Mindfulness courses are beneficial in clinical domains for anxiety and depression and are becoming more prevalent as interventions in education. However, little is known about what effects mindfulness might have on musicians. In an exploratory study, 25 music students, who completed one of four 8-week MBSR/MBCT mindfulness courses adapted for musicians at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, completed the validated Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire and a bespoke Mindfulness for Musicians questionnaire pre- and post-intervention. Twenty-one music students also took part in a post-intervention one-to-one semi-structured interview. Post-intervention mindfulness scores for both questionnaires increased significantly in comparison to pre-intervention scores. In interviews, participants were reportedly more aware and focused in instrumental lessons, were less self-critical, and developed increased body awareness, which improved their learning of instrumental technique. Participants also described enhanced teacher/pupil communication. In instrumental practice sessions, participants reported more efficient, effective and creative practice, and said that mindfulness exercises helped them deal with problems experienced while practising. Participants also described enhanced listening skills and improved socio-collaboration in ensemble rehearsals. They reported that mindfulness strategies had positive effects on music performance anxiety and described changes in time perception, enhanced expressivity, and positive post-performance effects. Future researchers could adopt a more robust methodology, such as a randomised controlled trial, and incorporate further design elements, such as longitudinal follow-up. Providing more systematic evidence of the beneficial role of mindfulness for conservatoire music students as learners and performers may encourage greater provision of such opportunities in musical settings in the future.
A novel bi-directional shear mode magneto-rheological elastomer vibration isolator
Authors: Jalali Amir , Dianati Hashem , Norouzi Mahmood , Vatandoost Hossein , Ghatee Mojtaba
Published: July 2020

In this article, a novel bi-directional shear mode magneto-rheological elastomer–based vibration isolator has been designed, fabricated, and characterized to improve the dynamic response and identification of this class of “intellectual” mechanical devices. A heuristic embodiment has been realized in order to design such an isolator wherein both the vertical and horizontal directions can be operated only in the shear mode not only individually but also simultaneously. Two fixtures have been designed for performing the characterization of the magneto-mechanical behavior of the proposed magneto-rheological elastomer isolator in the vertical and horizontal shear modes under wide ranges of strain amplitude (4%–32%), excitation frequency (1–8 Hz), and magnetic flux density (0–220 mT). Experimental results revealed maximum relative magneto-rheological effects of 35% and 27 % in the vertical and horizontal shear modes, respectively. Furthermore, basic mathematical models of single-degree-of-freedom systems, employing the magneto-rheological elastomer–based isolator in the vertical and horizontal shear modes, have been established. The proposed magneto-rheological elastomer isolator in the vertical mode exhibited natural frequency shift of 6.1% by a small increment in the magnetic flux density which approves the potential of the proposed bi-directional shear mode magneto-rheological elastomer–based vibration isolator for vibration control applications, such as seat suspension systems.
In situ fabrication of carbon fibre–reinforced polymer composites with embedded piezoelectrics for inspection and energy harvesting applications
Authors: Yan Xue , Courtney Charles RP , Bowen Chris R , Gathercole Nicholas , Wen Tao , Jia Yu , Shi Yu
Published: July 2020

Current in situ damage detection of fibre-reinforced composites typically uses sensors which are attached to the structure. This may make periodic inspection difficult for complex part geometries or in locations which are difficult to reach. To overcome these limitations, we examine the use of piezoelectric materials in the form of macro-fibre composites that are embedded into carbon fibre–reinforced polymer composites. Such a multi-material system can provide an in situ ability for damage detection, sensing or energy harvesting. In this work, the piezoelectric devices are embedded between the carbon fibre prepreg, and heat treated at elevated temperatures, enabling complete integration of the piezoelectric element into the structure. The impact of processing temperature on the properties of the macro-fibre composites are assessed, in particular with respect to the Curie temperature of the embedded ferroelectric. The mechanical properties of the carbon fibre–reinforced polymer composites are evaluated to assess the impact of the piezoelectric on tensile strength. The performance of the embedded piezoelectric devices to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals is evaluated, along with the potential to harvest power from mechanical strain for self-powered systems. Such an approach provides a route to create multi-functional materials.
A recurrent neural network–based model for predicting bending behavior of ionic polymer–metal composite actuators
Authors: Zamyad Hojat , Naghavi Nadia , Godaz Reza , Monsefi Reza
Published: July 2020

The high application potential of ionic polymer–metal composites has made the behavior identification of this group of smart materials an attractive area. So far, several models have been proposed to predict the bending of an ionic polymer–metal composite actuator, but these models have some weaknesses, the most important of them are the use of output data (in autoregressive models), high complexity to achieve a proper precision (in non-autoregressive models), and lack of compatibility with the behavioral nature of the material. In this article, we present a hybrid model of parallel non-autoregressive recurrent networks with internal memory cells to overcome existing weaknesses. The validation results on experimental data show that the proposed model has acceptable accuracy and flexibility. Moreover, simplicity and compatibility with the behavioral nature of the material promote using the proposed model in practical applications.
Development of a flame spraying coating–based fiber composite structure: A thermo-mechanical finite element study
Authors: Yi Duo
Published: July 2020

The optical fiber smart composite structures have been widely applied for the structural health monitoring, and the packaging technique of integrating optical fiber sensor with host structure is one of the key issues. The flame spraying coating provides strong adhesive strength with good heat resistance, which is particularly suitable for the packaging applications in harsh environments. However, the elaboration process of flame spraying coating–based fiber composite structure faces great challenges due to the flame spraying mechanisms. This study evaluates numerically an overall effect of flame spraying coating formation process on the structural and the optical properties of the embedded fiber optic based on a three-dimensional finite element model. First, the lumped capacitance method is used; both the average heat flux density in the whole spraying process and the specific heat flux density of each torch sweep are estimated to initialize the thermo-mechanical modeling. Then, the stress distributions in both radial and axial directions of the embedded fiber are discussed separately. Next, the variation of refractive index of the embedded fiber optic due to the residual strain is also investigated. Finally, the elaboration parameters including torch displacement and velocity are evaluated and optimized. The simulation results show that the embedded fiber optic maintains good structural and optical properties with the presented elaboration conditions, and therefore its transmission and sensing performance can be ensured.
Design, modeling, and performance of a bidirectional stick-slip piezoelectric actuator with coupled asymmetrical flexure hinge mechanisms
Authors: Lu Xiaohui , Gao Qiang , Gao Qi , Yu Yang , Zhang Xiaosong , Qiao Guangda , Zhao Hongwei , Cheng Tinghai
Published: July 2020

A stick-slip piezoelectric actuator with bidirectional motion is proposed and measured, which uses coupled asymmetrical flexure hinge mechanisms and symmetrical indenter to generate controllable tangential displacement. The operating principle of the proposed stick-slip actuator is illustrated, and the normal force variation between the stator and slider is analyzed. A dynamic model based on the method of dimensionality reduction is established to simulate the displacement and load capacity. In order to obtain improved actuator properties, the design rules of the coupled flexure hinge mechanisms are discussed, and the tangential and normal displacements of the indenter are investigated by the finite element method. A prototype is fabricated, and the experiment investigation of the actuator characteristics is presented. Testing results indicate that the actuator achieves the maximum output velocity of 10.14 mm/s and its maximum load reaches 1.5 N under a voltage of 100 Vp–p and a frequency of 850 Hz in the positive x-direction. The maximum efficiency of the actuator is 0.57% with a load of 90 g, a locking force of 5 N, and the actuated velocity of 5.48 mm/s. In addition, experimental results confirm the feasibility of the presented model by comparing numerical simulation results.
“Palliative Pandemic Plan,” Triage and Symptoms Algorithm as a Strategy to Decrease Providers’ Exposure, While Trying to Increase Teams Availability and Guidance for Goals of Care (GOC) and Symptoms Control
Authors: Lopez Santiago , Decastro Gene , Van Ogtrop Katlynn M. , Weiss-Domis Sindee , Anandan Samuel R. , Magalee Christopher J. , Roofeh Regina , Liberman Tara A.
Published: July 2020

As the spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues worldwide, health care systems are facing increased demand with concurrent health care provider shortages. This increase in patient demand and potential for provider shortages is particularly apparent for palliative medicine, where there are already shortages in the provision of this care. In response to the developing pandemic, our Geriatrics and Palliative (GAP) Medicine team formulated a 2-team approach which includes triage algorithms for palliative consults as well as acute symptomatic management for both patients diagnosed with or under investigation (PUI) for COVID-19. These algorithms provided a delineated set of guidelines to triage patients in need of palliative services and included provisions for acute symptoms management and the protection of both the patient care team and the families of patients with COVID-19. These guidelines helped with streamlining care in times of crisis, providing care to those in need, supporting frontline staff with primary-level palliative care, and minimizing the GAP team’s risk of infection and burnout during the rapidly changing pandemic response.
Attachment Style, Marital Satisfaction, and Mutual Support Attachment Style in Qatar
Authors: Bedair Khaled , Hamza Eid Abo , Gladding Samuel T.
Published: July 2020

This study assessed, for the first time, the relationship between security attachment and marital satisfaction in an Arab country, Qatar. Accordingly, we used the marital satisfaction assessment, the Experiences in Close Relationships Revised attachment style questionnaire, and the Goldsmith Support Measure. Using a path analysis model, the results showed that secured attachment style positively influenced marital satisfaction but did not positively influence mutual support in a relationship. Unsecure attachment styles negatively influenced the level of mutual support and marital satisfaction. Importantly, the findings revealed a gender effect, with females receiving less mutual support from their male partners, than vice versa. We discuss the importance of these results in the context of Arab culture and gender differences.
Patterns and Implications of Early Syndesmotic Screw Failure in Rotational Ankle Fractures
Authors: Behery Omar A. , Mandel Jessica , Solasz Sara J. , Konda Sanjit R. , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: July 2020

Background:

The purpose of this study was to identify characteristic patterns of syndesmotic screw (SS) failure, and any effects on clinical outcome.

Methods:

A retrospective study was performed using a consecutive series of patients treated with open reduction and internal fixation with trans-syndesmotic screws for unstable ankle fractures with syndesmotic injury between 2015 and 2017. Patient demographics, fracture characteristics and classification, rates and patterns of trans-syndesmotic screw breakage, and backout were analyzed. Functional outcome was assessed using passive range of motion (ROM) and Maryland Foot Score (MFS).

Results:

A total of 113 patients (67%) had intact screws and 56 patients (33%) demonstrated either screw breakage or backout. Patients with SS failure were younger ( P = .002) and predominantly male ( P = .045). Fracture classification and energy level of injury were not associated with screw failure. Nine screws (11%) demonstrated backout (2 also broke) and 56 other screws broke. There was no association between the number of screws or cortices of purchase and screw failure. There was a trend toward a higher proportion of screw removal (20%) in this failed SS group compared with the intact SS group (12%) ( P = .25), but with similar ankle ROM and MFS ( P > .07).

Conclusion:

Syndesmotic screw breakage was common in younger, male patients. Despite similarities in ankle range of motion and clinical outcome scores to patients with intact screws, there was a trend towards more frequent screw removal. This information can be used to counsel patients pre- and postoperatively regarding the potential for screw failure and subsequent implant removal.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case-control study.
The JUUL E-Cigarette Elevates the Risk of Thrombosis and Potentiates Platelet Activation
Authors: Ramirez Jean E. Montes , Karim Zubair A. , Alarabi Ahmed B. , Hernandez Keziah R. , Taleb Ziyad Ben , Rivera José O. , Khasawneh Fadi T. , Alshbool Fatima Z.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Smoking is the main preventable cause of death in the United States and worldwide and is associated with serious cardiovascular health consequences, including thrombotic diseases. Recently, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and, in particular JUUL, have attained wide popularity among smokers, nonsmokers, pregnant females, and even the youth, which is alarming. Interestingly, there is/are no information/studies regarding the effect of JUUL on cardiovascular diseases, specifically in the context of modulation of platelet activation. Thus, it is important to discern the cardiovascular disease health risks associated with JUUL.

Methods and Results:

We used a passive e-vape vapor inhalation system where C57BL/6J mice (10-12 weeks old) were exposed to JUUL e-cigarette vape. Menthol flavored JUUL pods containing 5% nicotine by weight were used as the e-liquid. Mice were exposed to a total of 70 puffs daily for 2 weeks; 3-second puff duration, and 25-second puff interval. The effects of JUUL relative to clean air were analyzed, on mouse platelet function in vitro (eg, aggregation) and in vivo (eg, FeCl3-induced carotid artery injury thrombosis model). Our results indicate that short-term exposure to JUUL e-cigarette causes hyperactivation of platelets and shortens the thrombus occlusion as well as hemostasis/bleeding times, relative to clean air (medians of 14 vs. 200 seconds, P < .01 and 35 vs. 295 seconds, P < .001, respectively).

Conclusion:

Our findings document—for the first time—that short-term exposure to the JUUL e-cigarette increases the risk of thrombotic events, in part by modulating platelet function, such as aggregation and secretion, in mice.
Critically Literate Citizenship: Moments and Movements in Second Grade
Authors: Yoon Haeny S.
Published: July 2020

With renewed emphasis on civic education in K–12 schools, educators and politicians call for young people to engage in civic action. Worth considering are the kinds of ideas taken up, the performances deemed critical enough, and actions recognized in schools as civic engagement. Drawing from a case study of second graders in New York City (NYC), I move away from hypervisible expressions of civic participation to show how children take up critical literacy and civic action through everyday, ordinary moments. Beyond public displays of social action, how do we build up critically literate citizens who question, disrupt, and engage civically in their daily lives? Highlighted throughout this article are children’s questions, inquiries, and tensions around diverse identities and practices (e.g., religion, race, gender, politics). In centering children’s political agendas, I argue that the production of civic engagement is lived out in the curricular, conversational, and playful moments leading up to social movements.
Impact of locking solutions on conditioning biofilm formation in tunnelled haemodialysis catheters and inflammatory response activation
Authors: Jiménez Hernández Mario , Soriano Alex , Filella Xavier , Calvo María , Coll Elisenda , Rebled Josep M , Poch Esteban , Graterol Fredzia , Compte María Teresa , Maduell Francisco , Fontsere Néstor
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

The surface of tunnelled cuffed catheters provides an optimal environment for the development of biofilms, which have recently been described as conditioning films because of the presence of adherent biological materials. These biofilms are associated with infection and thrombosis and potentially increase patients’ inflammatory response. These complications could be reduced by the use of locking solutions.

Objective:

To analyse biofilm formation, using confocal and electron microscopy, in tunnelled cuffed catheters locked with three different solutions and to determine the relationship between these solutions and inflammatory response.

Study design:

This prospective study included 35 haemodialysis patients with tunnelled cuffed catheter removal for non–infection-related reasons. The participants were divided into three groups according to the lock solution used: (1) heparin 1: 5000 IU; (2) citrate 4%; and (3) taurolidine 1.35%, citrate 4% and heparin 500 IU (taurolock); in the latter group, 25,000 IU taurolidine–urokinase was used in the last weekly session. All tunnelled cuffed catheters were cultured, and the inner surface was evaluated with confocal and electron microscopy. The inflammatory profile of included patients was determined at tunnelled cuffed catheter removal.

Results:

There were no differences in clinical or demographic variables between the three subgroups. Biofilm thickness was lower in the taurolidine group than in the citrate 4% and heparin groups (28.85 ± 6.86 vs 49.99 ± 16.56 vs 56.2 ± 15.67 µm, respectively; p < 0.001), as was biofilm volume (1.01 ±1.18 vs 3.7 ± 2.15 vs 5.55 ±2.44, µm3, respectively; p < 0.001). The mean interleukin-6 value was 39%, which was 50% lower than in the citrate and heparin groups, but without significance differences.

Conclusion:

Our results show that biofilms were found in all tunnelled cuffed catheters, but the thickness and volume were significantly lower in tunnelled cuffed catheters locked with taurolidine solution. Therefore, the type of locking solution used in tunnelled cuffed catheters should maintain tunnelled cuffed catheter sterility and prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections. No significant difference was observed in the inflammatory profile according to the type of locking solution.
“We Cannot Have any Negativity”: A secondary analysis of expectancies for the experience of emotion among women with gynecologic cancer
Authors: Bontempo Allyson C , Greene Kathryn , Venetis Maria K , Catona Danielle , Checton Maria G , Buckley de Meritens Alexandre , Devine Katie A
Published: July 2020

This study aimed to elucidate whether gynecologic cancer patients and their support persons have certain expectancies for emotion and whether these expectancies, if they exist, affect cancer-related communication. Semi-structured interviews ( N = 34) were conducted separately with 18 patients and one of their support persons ( n = 16). Thematic analysis revealed a subset of patients and support persons expected patients to not have any negative emotions, which patients also reported they perceived from support persons, and that these expectancies could affect cancer-related communication. These results have implications and can facilitate appropriate recommendations for how cancer patients and support persons co-manage patients’ emotions.
Facial emotion recognition in autistic adult females correlates with alexithymia, not autism
Authors: Ola Louise , Gullon-Scott Fiona
Published: July 2020

Research on predominantly male autistic samples has indicated that impairments in facial emotion recognition typically associated with autism spectrum conditions are instead due to co-occurring alexithymia. However, whether this could be demonstrated using more realistic facial emotion recognition stimuli and applied to autistic females was unclear. In all, 83 females diagnosed with autism spectrum condition completed online self-report measures of autism spectrum condition severity and alexithymia, and afacial emotion recognition deficit that assessed their ability to identify multimodal displays of complex emotions. Higher levels of alexithymia, but not autism spectrum condition severity, were associated with less accurate facial emotion recognition. Difficulty identifying one’s own feelings and externally oriented thinking were the components of alexithymia that were specifically related to facial emotion recognition accuracy. However, alexithymia (and autism spectrum condition severity) was not associated with speed of emotion processing. The findings are primarily discussed with the theoretical view that perceiving and experiencing emotions share the same neural networks, thus being able to recognise one’s own emotions may facilitate the ability to recognise others’. This study is in line with previous similar research on autistic males and suggests impairments in facial emotion recognition in autistic females should be attributed to co-occurring alexithymia.

Lay abstract

Research with autistic males has indicated that difficulties in recognising facial expressions of emotion, commonly associated with autism spectrum conditions, may instead be due to co-occurring alexithymia (a condition involving lack of emotional awareness, difficulty describing feelings and difficulty distinguishing feelings from physical bodily sensations) and not to do with autism. We wanted to explore if this would be true for autistic females, as well as to use more realistic stimuli for emotional expression. In all, 83 females diagnosed with autism spectrum condition completed self-report measures of autism spectrum condition traits and alexithymia and completed a visual test that assessed their ability to identify multimodal displays of complex emotions. Higher levels of alexithymia, but not autism spectrum condition features, were associated with less accuracy in identifying emotions. Difficulty identifying one’s own feelings and externally oriented thinking were the components of alexithymia that were specifically related to facial emotion recognition accuracy. However, alexithymia (and levels of autism spectrum condition traits) was not associated with speed of emotion processing. We discuss the findings in terms of possible underlying mechanisms and the implications for our understanding of emotion processing and recognition in autism.
On the influence of resin pocket area on the failure of tapered sandwich composites
Authors: Soleymani Milad , Tahani Masoud , Zamani Pedram
Published: July 2020

Structural defects such as resin pocket area are inevitably created between surface and core of composite structures during the production of wind turbine blades using vacuum infusion process. In this article, four-point bending tests were performed on tapered sandwich composites to investigate the effect of resin pocket area on the mechanical strength, crack growth path, and failure mode. Specimens were in similar shape to wind turbine blade profiles, and a shear-dominant load was applied to the resin pocket area during the experiments. The extended finite-element method was applied in order to predict crack growth path and failure mode. The average static strength of the specimens including the small size of resin pocket area had almost no change in compare with the specimen with no resin pocket area. Moreover, the medium size of resin pocket area decreased the strength for 3.5% while the large size one enhanced it for 1.75%. Thus, it can be deduced that the defect area does not have a significant effect on the flexural strength of the sandwich composite tapered specimens, but it can arrest the crack. Therefore, the crack propagates in the opposite direction at the interface of the face and core. Although the resin pocket area arrests the crack, it was observed that the size of resin pocket area directly affects the crack growth and its path. The smaller resin pocket area leads to slower crack growth, and early collapse occurs for the larger size of defect area. So, the size of resin pocket area has considerable importance during manufacturing of such structures. Finally, numerical results have shown good agreement with experimental ones.
Perceptions of mis- or disinformation exposure predict political cynicism: Evidence from a two-wave survey during the 2018 US midterm elections
Authors: Jones-Jang S Mo , Kim Dam Hee , Kenski Kate
Published: July 2020

Despite a fast-growing body of literature on fake news and mis-/disinformation, there remains surprisingly little empirical work on the social/political consequences of exposure to false information. Addressing this issue, this study provides initial evidence that perceptions of false information exposure catalyze political cynicism. The findings from a two-wave panel survey during the 2018 US midterm elections reveal that perceptions of false information exposure 2 weeks before the election significantly predict the changes in political cynicism immediately after the election day. We also find that social media news use in Wave 1 significantly relates to political cynicism in Wave 2 indirectly through perceptions of mis-/disinformation exposure. The autoregressive regression model indicates that our findings are robust after controlling for prior levels of cynicism.
‘Do digital technologies matter? How hyperlocal media is re-configuring the media landscape of a Russian province’
Authors: Dovbysh Olga
Published: July 2020

The increase of internet penetration across Russia has reduced entry barriers for individuals and companies who want to report locally. New digital technologies have given rise to many semi-professional local media projects, so-called ‘hyperlocal media’ (Metzgar et al., 2011; Tenor, 2018), created on various online platforms and social networking sites. Websites, blogs, and social media groups (the so-called ‘pabliki’ in Russian) on the popular social networking site VKontakte have opened up new access routes to local news, both for ordinary citizens and the authorities, but have also become a challenge for traditional local media. This article investigates how the media landscape changes in response to digital technologies in a provincial town of nearly 40,000 in the European part of Russia. More specifically, the article investigates how professional journalists from traditional media and practitioners from hyperlocal media sites understand the influence of digital technologies on the aims and work practices of media in a Russian province. The study is based on in-depth interviews with the editors of traditional local media (e.g. print newspapers) and owners of new hyperlocal media initiatives. The research explores different approaches to the ways in which two groups of media actors understand and make use of the internet and digital technologies. However, within peculiar Russian media model, these differences have led to collaborative rather than competitive relations between the two groups.
The role of wire services in the new millennium: An examination of the foreign-reporting about Latin America in the German press
Authors: Cazzamatta Regina
Published: July 2020

Given the substantial impact of the Internet and social media on the contemporary process of news selection, this article studies the current role of news agencies as agenda-setters in global news reporting. With a focus on the foreign-reporting of Latin America within the prestigious national press in Germany, we analysed the articles’ authorship from four sources: two market-leading German dailies – ‘ Süddeutsche Zeitung’ and ‘ Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung’ – the weekly ‘ Der Spiegel’ and, the alternative newspaper ‘ tageszeitung’ (taz). The corpus comprises 3831 articles published between 2000 and 2014. In addition, eight (semi-structured) interviews with German correspondents in Latin America were conducted to comprehend their relationship with the editorial offices and the indirect use of wire services. We observe that not only is the agency-copy low (8.9%) when compared with other world regions, but direct agency use has also been declining. However, further indicators show that the thematic orientation remains powerful. Moreover, the interviewees confirm the agencies’ impact on their work.