bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redo Surgical Mitral Valve Replacement Versus Transcatheter Mitral Valve in Valve From the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Zia Khan Muhammad , Zahid Salman , Khan Muhammad U. , Kichloo Asim , Jamal Shakeel , Mannan Khan Minhas Abdul , Ullah Waqas , Sattar Yasar , Balla Sudarshan
Published: August 2021

Background

Redo mitral valve surgery is required in up to one‐third of patients and is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Valve‐in‐valve transcatheter mitral valve replacement (ViV TMVR) is less invasive and could be considered in those at prohibitive surgical risk. Studies on comparative outcomes of ViV TMVR and redo surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR) remain limited. Our study aimed to investigate the real‐world outcomes of the above procedures using the National Inpatient Sample database.

Methods and Results

We analyzed National Inpatient Sample data using the
International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification
(
ICD‐10‐CM
) from September 2015 to December 2018. A total of 495 and 2250 patients underwent redo ViV TMVR and SMVR, respectively. The patients who underwent ViV TMVR were older (77 versus 68 years,
P
<0.01). Adjusted mortality was higher in the redo SMVR group compared with the ViV TMVR group (7.6% versus <2.8%,
P
<0.01). Perioperative complications were higher among patients undergoing redo SMVR including blood transfusions (38% versus 7.6%,
P
<0.01) and acute kidney injury (36.7% versus 13.9%,
P
<0.01). Cost of care was higher (USD$57 172 versus USD$52 579,
P
<0.01), length of stay was longer (10 versus 3 days,
P
<0.01), and discharge to home was lower (20.3% versus 64.6%,
P
<0.01) in the SMVR group compared with the ViV TMVR group.

Conclusions

ViV TMVR is associated with lower mortality, periprocedural morbidity, and resource use compared with patients undergoing redo SMVR. ViV TMVR may be a viable option for some patients with mitral prosthesis dysfunction. Studies evaluating long‐term outcomes and durability of ViV TMVR are needed. A patient‐centered approach by the heart team, local institutional expertise, and careful preprocedure planning can help decision‐making about the choice of intervention for the individual patient.
Trends in Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospitalized Young Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in the United States, 2004 to 2018
Authors: Dani Sourbha S. , Minhas Abdul Mannan Khan , Arshad Adeel , Krupica Troy , Goel Sachin S. , Virani Salim S. , Sharma Garima , Blankstein Ron , Blaha Michael J. , Al‐Kindi Sadeer G. , Nasir Khurram , Khan Safi U.
Published: August 2021

Background

Data are limited about young adults' characteristics and outcomes undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Methods and Results

We used the National Inpatient Sample database to identify adults aged 18 to 45 years who underwent CABG between 2004 and 2018. The data were weighted to generate national estimates of the entire US hospitalized population. We identified 110 463 CABG cases, equivalent to 62.2 per 1 000 000 person‐years; 27.1% were women, and 70.2% were White adults. Overall, annual CABG volume per 1 000 000 significantly decreased from 87.3 in 2004 to 45.7 in 2018. The prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, drug abuse, and chronic medical conditions increased over time. Overall, inpatient mortality was 1.76%; ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction, non–ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, renal failure, and valvular surgery were associated with higher inpatient mortality. Women had higher inpatient mortality than men (2.29% versus 1.57%), and Black patients had higher deaths than White patients (2.86% versus 1.58%). Inpatient mortality remained stable overall, according to sex, race, or clinical indication of CABG. However, the mean length of stay (8.4 days in 2004 to 9.5 days in 2018) and inflation‐adjusted cost of care ($40 522.8 in 2004 to $52 434.2 in 2018) significantly increased during the study period.

Conclusions

Despite the increased burden of cardiometabolic risk factors, the inpatient mortality in young adults undergoing CABG remained stable during the last 15 years. However, CABG volumes have decreased, but length of stay and inflation‐adjusted costs have increased over time.
Determinants of Interindividual Variation in Exercise‐Induced Cardiac Troponin I Levels
Authors: Bjørkavoll‐Bergseth Magnus , Erevik Christine Bjørkvik , Kleiven Øyunn , Eijsvogels Thijs M. H. , Skadberg Øyvind , Frøysa Vidar , Wiktorski Tomasz , Auestad Bjørn , Edvardsen Thor , Moberg Aakre Kristin , Ørn Stein
Published: August 2021

Background

Postexercise cardiac troponin levels show considerable interindividual variations. This study aimed to identify the major determinants of this postexercise variation in cardiac troponin I (cTnI) following 3 episodes of prolonged high‐intensity endurance exercise.

Methods and Results

Study subjects were recruited among prior participants in a study of recreational cyclists completing a 91‐km mountain bike race in either 2013 or 2014 (first race). In 2018, study participants completed a cardiopulmonary exercise test 2 to 3 weeks before renewed participation in the same race (second race). Blood was sampled before and at 3 and 24 hours following all exercises. Blood samples were analyzed using the same Abbot high‐sensitivity cTnI STAT assay. Fifty‐nine individuals (aged 50±9 years, 13 women) without cardiovascular disease were included. Troponin values were lowest before, highest at 3 hours, and declining at 24 hours. The largest cTnI difference was at 3 hours following exercise between the most (first race) (cTnI: 200 [87–300] ng/L) and the least strenuous exercise (cardiopulmonary exercise test) (cTnI: 12 [7–23] ng/L;
P
<0.001). The strongest correlation between troponin values at corresponding times was before exercise (
r
=0.92,
P
<0.0001). The strongest correlations at 3 hours were between the 2 races (
r
=0.72,
P
<0.001) and at 24 hours between the cardiopulmonary exercise test and the second race (
r
=0.83,
P
<0.001). Participants with the highest or lowest cTnI levels showed no differences in race performance or baseline echocardiographic parameters.

Conclusions

The variation in exercise‐induced cTnI elevation is largely determined by a unique individual cTnI response that is dependent on the duration of high‐intensity exercise and the timing of cTnI sampling.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier:
NCT02166216
.
Sodium‐Glucose Co‐Transporter Inhibitors and Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Pandey Arjun K. , Okaj Iva , Kaur Hargun , Belley‐Cote Emilie P. , Wang Jia , Oraii Alireza , Benz Alexander P. , Johnson Linda S. B. , Young Jack , Wong Jorge A. , Verma Subodh , Conen David , Gerstein Hertzel , Healey Jeff S. , McIntyre William F.
Published: August 2021

Background

Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter (SGLT) inhibitors reduce cardiovascular outcomes including mortality in several populations; however, their effect on atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) remains unclear. Our objective was to determine whether SGLT inhibitors reduce AF and whether a history of AF modifies the effect of SGLT inhibitors on the composite of heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death.

Methods and Results

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL to March 2021. Pairs of reviewers identified randomized controlled trials that compared an SGLT inhibitor with placebo or no therapy. We pooled data using RevMan 5.4.1, assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane tool, and determined the overall quality of evidence using Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation. Thirty‐one eligible trials reported on AF events (75 279 participants, mean age 62 years, 35.0% women). Moderate quality evidence supported a lower risk of serious AF events with SGLT inhibitors (1.1% versus 1.5%; risk ratio 0.75 [95% CI, 0.66–0.86]; I
2
=0%). A similar reduction in total AF events was also noted with SGLT inhibitors. Three trials reported on heart failure hospitalization/cardiovascular death stratified by a baseline history of AF (18 832 participants, mean age 66 years, 38.1% women); in patients with a history of AF, SGLT inhibitors resulted in a lower risk in the composite of heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death (hazard ratio, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.57–0.85]; I
2
=0%)—similar to the effect estimate for patients without AF,
P
value for interaction: 1.00.

Conclusions

SGLT inhibitors may reduce AF events and likely reduce heart failure hospitalization/cardiovascular death to a similar extent in patients with and without AF.
Controllable A-T Splitting and Spatial Splitting Inside a Cascade Three-Level Atomic System
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Yuanyuan , Hao Minru , Zhang Yunzhe
Published: August 2021

We illustrate the experimental observations of Autler-Townes splitting and the spatial splitting in an electromagnetically induced transparency window in a atomic vapor system of D1 line. As the power of the dressing laser beam changes, we study first-order and secondary Autler-Townes
splitting. The influences of these dressing beams, which lead to the larger spatial splitting of four-wave mixing and the shift of probe transmission signal with by changing frequency detuning. Studies on such controllable Autler-Townes splitting and spatial splitting effect can be very useful
in applications of spatial signal processing and optical communication.
Switching Power Supply Control Strategy Based on Monitoring Configuration
Authors: Luo Le , Yang Ming-Zhong
Published: August 2021

In this paper, a new discrete-time sliding mode predictive control (DSMPC) strategy with a PID sliding function is proposed for synchronous DC-DC Buck converter. The model predictive control, along with digital sliding mode control (DSMC) is able to further reducing the chattering phenomenon,
steady-state error, overshoot, and undershoot of the converter output voltage. The proposed control method implementation only requires output error voltage evaluation. The effectiveness of the proposed DSMPC is proved through simulation results executed by the MATLAB/SIMULINK software. These
results demonstrate its performance is superior to DSMC. The selected synchronous Buck converter in this paper has 380 V input voltage and 48 V output voltage that can be applied in sections of DC distribution systems.
The Simulation Study on Temperature Field Distribution of 220 kV Gas Insulated Switchgear
Authors: Gao Bao-Ming , Li Zheng-Yu , Gao Jin-Wen , Liang Hao , Yan Zhi , Hu Yi-Dan
Published: August 2021

Under working conditions, the conductive rods in the GIS flow through the power frequency alternating current. Due to the coupling effect of the magnetic field and electric field between the metal aluminum shell and the conductive rod, induced eddy currents are generated in the metal
shell of the GIS. The heat generated by the current heating effect of the GIS conductive rod and the eddy current loss of the metal casing will cause the temperature rise of GIS equipment. Due to the limited volume, the heat dissipation capacity of GIS is poor. Excessive temperature rise will
accelerate the insulation aging of GIS equipment, and even damage its insulation, which will affect safe operation. In order to obtain the temperature change law of GIS, related influencing factors such as eddy current loss, skin effect, proximity effect, convective heat transfer of SF6
gas, and gravity of SF6 gas are comprehensively considered. The finite element analysis is used to research and discuss GIS magnetic field distribution, eddy current, temperature distribution and SF6 gas velocity. The initial value of the temperature of each part is set
to 293.15 K (20 °C), and the temperature in the GIS is calculated to gradually decrease from the inside to the outside under the rated AC current of 3150 A. The temperature at the conductive rod position is the highest at 335.32 K, and the temperature at the housing position is the lowest
at 294.65 K.
Modeling and Optimization Design of Signal Interconnect Channel Considering Signal Integrity in Three Dimensional Integrated Circuits
Authors: Li Bing-Jie , Li Zhen-Song , Zhao Yan-Ping , Li Zheng-Wang , Miao Min
Published: August 2021

The signal integrity (SI) analysis of a high-speed signal interconnect channel composed of through silicon vias (TSVs) and horizontal re-distribution layers (RDL) is carried out, and the problems of SI, such as transmission loss, crosstalk and coupling effect in the transmission channel,
are analyzed and studied. These signal integrity issues are considered in this paper, a signal interconnect channel model is proposed and the equivalent circuit model is deduced as well. Compared with the traditional one, this interconnect channel model has better performance in SI. Further
sweep frequency analysis is carried out for different material parameters to achieve signal transmission performance optimization aimed at this model. Test samples of the proposed signal interconnect channel model are designed and fabricated according to the process index, and measured to
verify the actual transmission performance. The design and optimization rule of high-speed signal interconnect channel are summarized which proved that the proposed structure has more advantages in signal transmission performance, and has important guiding significance for practical design.
3D DNA Self-Assembly Algorithmic Model to Solve the Hamiltonian Path Problem
Authors: Ma Jingjing
Published: August 2021

Self-assembly reveals the innate character of DNA computing, DNA self-assembly is regarded as the best way to make DNA computing transform into computer chip. This paper introduces a strategy of DNA 3D self-assembly algorithm to solve the Hamiltonian Path Problem. Firstly, I introduced
a non-deterministic algorithm. Then, according to the algorithm I designed the types of DNA tiles which the computing process needs. Lastly, I demonstrated the self-assembly process and the experimental methods which can get the final result. The computing time is linear, and the number of
the different tile types is constant.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation, Microelectromechanical System Fabrication, and Radio-Frequency Evaluation of the PM2.5 Fine Dust Sensor Based on the Surface Acoustic Wave Resonator
Authors: Park Se-Yong , Kim Min-Ji , Lee Hee-Chul
Published: August 2021

To classify 2.5-µm-scale fine dust and measure its concentration, research was conducted to produce a fine-dust sensor utilizing computational fluid dynamics simulation and microelectromechanical system processes, and the measurement system was manufactured for the sensor. The
virtual impactor was designed to classify particles in the air above and below 2.5 µm, and the cut-off diameter of 2.5 µm at an acceleration nozzle length of 83.2 µm was obtained by verifying this impactor through flow-analysis simulation. The microheater
was then designed to measure the mass of the classified particle by adsorbing it onto the surface acoustic wave resonator placed on the lower part of the flow channel using thermophoretic force. The conditions where the classified particles are completely adsorbed on the surface acoustic wave
resonator through the heater were calculated using numerical modeling and the results were verified through the simulation. The fine dust sensor based on the designed surface acoustic wave resonator is composed of the upper, middle, and lower parts including the heater, virtual impactor, and
surface acoustic wave resonator and SMA connector, respectively, and the micro-fan controlling the total flow. Each part was produced using the microelectromechanical system process, assembled, and finally finished. Moreover, the evaluation system was produced in this study to assess the developed
sensor. The flow of air controlled through the flowmeter was sprayed into a dust bottle filled with hollow silica powder to scatter the powder, which flowed into the system with the air, making the environment similar to one with fine dust present. The change in radio-frequency resonance characteristics,
such as those before and after exposure to the fine dust environment, and insertion loss after the surface cleaning were observed, and a sensitivity of, detection limit of, and restoration rate after surface cleaning exceeding 99.9% were obtained.
A Study on Optimization of Planar Gate Type Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect-Transistors Multi Epitaxial Process in Super-Junction Structure
Authors: Hyeon Jo Chang , Hee Kim Dea , Seong Jo Hyeong , Yong Kwon O , Goo Kang Ey
Published: August 2021

Power metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect-transistors (MOSFET) is a high voltage control device that requires high reliability and efficiency and is used to improve efficiency in areas such as renewable energy generators, electric vehicles, power supply unit, converters and motor
control. Electrical characteristics of the MOSFET include a Threshold voltage which is a voltage for operating the device, an On-resistance which is a device resistance in an on-state, and a breakdown voltage which means a device withstand voltage. A Super-Junction structure is proposed to
design the device with a high breakdown voltage and a low on-resistance. A multi-epitaxial Super-Junction MOSFET forms a Pillar layers by injecting continuously P-type impurity at edge on stacked N-Pillar layer. By forming the Pillar region which is higher doping concentration than
N-drift, the on resistance can be reduced. In the forward blocking mode, the depletion layer of the Pillar region is extended to both vertical and horizontal sides, for a high breakdown voltage can be obtained. By using a T-CAD tool which is a process simulator, electrical characteristics
of 1,200 V class super-junction MOSFET are analyzed along process variables (pillar lateral length, pillar concentration). When the breakdown voltage of the super junction MOSFET and the Planar MOSFET are equal, On-resistance (based on 10 A) has a gain of approximately 20% by a difference
of 0.189 ohm×cm. It is believed that this can contribute to the development of super junction MOSFET with improved reliability and electrical characteristics.
A Study on the Optimization of Deep-Trench Super Junction Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor
Authors: Huh Yoon-Young , Choi Jong-Mun , Kim Jung-Min , Kang Ey-Goo , Chung Hun-Suk
Published: August 2021

Power metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor is a switching device designed to handle large power consumption; it enables fast switching, resulting in low power consumption. Power devices are used as important components that determine the operation and performance of electrically
powered products such as home appliances, smartphones, and automobiles. Power devices must be able to block high voltage so that current does not flow in the off state, have no power consumption in the on state, and have a small resistance so that high current can flow. For high efficiency,
power loss must be minimized and resistance must be reduced during the turn-on state. To increase the breakdown voltage, the thickness and resistivity of the N-drift region must be increased. However, owing to the trade-off relationship, as the breakdown voltage increases, the on-resistance
also increases. The super junction structure was proposed to improve this trade-off relationship. In this study, a process simulation using TCAD tool was carried out. Similar to the multi-epitaxial process, the P-pillar was divided into several layers, and the value of each concentration was
specified. Thus, the charge balance of the pillar regions was achieved. For the maximum breakdown voltage characteristics and minimum on-resistance characteristics of the deep-trench super junction MOSFET, an experiment was conducted to optimize the cell pitch and pillar of the super junction
MOSFET using a five-deep trench.
Influence of Rare Earth and Fe Addition on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al-B Alloy
Authors: Yoo Hyo-Sang , Kim Yong-Ho , Son Hyeon-Taek
Published: August 2021

In this study, changes in the microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity of as-cast and as-extruded Al–B based alloys with the addition of Fe and rare earth (RE) were investigated. The melted aluminum alloy was maintained at 750 °C and then poured into
a mould at 200 °C. Aluminum alloys were hot-extruded into a rod that was 12 mm in thickness with a reduction ratio of 39:1. The addition of Fe and RE resulted in the formation of Al11RE3 and Al3Fe intermetallic compounds and the area fraction of these inter-metallic
compounds increased with increasing Fe and RE contents. As the amount of Fe and RE increased, the average grain size of the extruded Al alloy decreased to 798.6, 196.1, and 21.9 µm, and the high-angle grain boundaries fraction increased to 24.8, 27.9, and 60.7%. In the case of
cast materials, low electrical conductivity was shown by porosity and fine casting defects. As the Fe and RE contents increased, the electrical conductivity of the extruded Al–B alloy decreased to 62.3, 59.6 and 55.0% International Annealed Copper Standard. As the Fe and RE content increased
the ultimate tensile strength improved from 90.8 to 112.9 MPa which was attributed to the grain refinement and formation of Al11RE3 and Al3Fe intermetallic compounds by the addition of Fe and RE.
9-(10-phenylanthracen-9-yl)-7H-Fluoreno[4, 3-b]Benzofuran Derivatives for Blue Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Jang Beomsu , Han Giwoong , Kim Kiju , Lee Hakjun , Kwan Kim Young , Yoon Seung Soo
Published: August 2021

In this study, two blue fluorescent using phenylanthracene-substituted furan derivatives were synthesized for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and subsequently characterized. To study the electroluminescent properties of the materials, OLED devices were fabricated using these two
materials as an emissive layer (EML). The device using 7,7-diphenyl-9-(10-phenylanthracen-9-yl)-7H-fluoreno[4,3-b]benzofuran in the emitting layer showed the highest external quantum efficiency (EQE) value, 3.10%. It also showed the maximum luminance efficiency of 2.41 cd/A and maximum power
efficiency of 1.90 lm/W with CIE coordinates of (0.15, 0.08).
Conductive Hydrogel-Based Electronics for Intelligent Sensing and Smart Controlling
Authors: Dai Ranran , Zhou Hao , Huang Wei , Li Chaoyue , Qin Cheng , Liu Xiaomin , Pan Zhifeng
Published: August 2021

Soft and flexible materials have recently attracted great attention as a sensing layer in the fields of health monitoring, human-machine interface, internet of things and soft robotics. Owing to its unique merits such as excellent flexibility, outstanding biocompatibility and superb sensitivity, conductive hydrogel can meet the need of soft sensing materials in the fields above. However, nonlinear sensitivities under high strains affect the application in practice. Moreover, the free water in conductive hydrogel will freeze or dry under extreme environment, even slowly evaporating at room temperature. Current innovation researches have demonstrated some advanced measures to improve its shortcomings and fit the applications in special environment. This review provides an overview of current flexible electronics based on conductive hydrogel for intelligent sensing and smart controlling. We sort and introduce the fabrication of conductive hydrogel according to different conductive materials. Furthermore, we focus on three classes of applications, including human-machine interfaces (HMIs), health monitoring and motion detection. At the end of the review, the still unresolved challenges are briefly summarized and novel directions for conductive hydrogel-based electronics are provided.
Thermoelectric Transport in a Double-Quantum-Dot Coupled to Majorana Zero Modes
Authors: Wang Jing , Sun Lian-Liang , Chi Feng , Fu Zhen-Guo
Published: August 2021

Thermoelectric transport through a double-quantum-dot (DQD) connected to the left and right leads is theoretically investigated in the framework of non-equilibrium Green’s function technique. We consider that the dots are also coupled to Majorana zero modes (MZMs) prepared at
the two ends of a topological superconductor nanowire. It is found that the sign change of thermopower, which is promising in the detection of MZMs, can be realized by tuning several system’s parameters related to the MZMs, such as the coupling strength between the dots and the MZMs,
the direct coupling between the MZMs, or even the magnetic flux penetrating through the structure. The above parameters also lead to significant enhancement of the thermopower and thermoelectric figure of merit (FOM), which indicates the conversion efficiency between heat and electrical energies.
We also find that in this DQD system, both the thermopower and FOM are simultaneously enhanced by the MZMs around the electron-hole symmetric point, an ideal phenomenon in applications of thermoelectric effect. In addition, the thermoelectric effect is remarkably enhanced by the direct hybridization
between the MZMs, which is very different from the case in single-dot structure.
Acute Kidney Injury Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute Coronary Syndrome: Incidence, Aetiology, Risk Factors and Outcomes
Authors: Carande Elliott J , Brown Karen , Jackson David , Maskell Nicholas , Kouzaris Loukas , Greene Giles , Mikhail Ashraf , Obaid Daniel R
Published: August 2021

We investigated the predictors, aetiology and long-term outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) following urgent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Acute kidney injury occurred in 198 (7.2%) of 2917 patients: 14.1% of AKI cases were attributed to cardiogenic shock and 5.1% were classified as atheroembolic renal disease (AERD). Significant risk factors for AKI included age (odds ratio [OR] 1.05, 95% confidence limits [CI] 1.03-1.06), diabetes (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.20-2.47), hypertension (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.03-2.00), heart failure (OR 3.01, 95% CI 1.58-5.57), femoral access (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.03-2.15), cardiogenic shock (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.19-3.37) and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) (OR 3.89, 95% CI 2.80-5.47). One-year mortality after AERD was 44.4% and renal replacement therapy (RRT) requirement 22.2% (compared with mortality 33.3% and RRT requirement 7.4%, respectively, in all other AKI patients). Mortality at 1 year was associated with AKI (OR 4.33, 95% CI 2.89-6.43), age (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.06-1.09), heart failure (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.05-3.44), femoral access (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.41-2.95) and cardiogenic shock (OR 3.63, 95% CI 2.26-5.77). Acute kidney injury after urgent PCI is strongly associated with worse outcomes. Atheroembolic renal disease has a poor outcome and a high likelihood of long-term RRT requirement.
The evidence is in: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is an effective, safe and well-tolerated treatment for patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Fitzgerald Paul B , George Mark S , Pridmore Saxby
Published: August 2021

Despite more than 25 years of research establishing the antidepressant efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, there remains uncertainty about the depth and breadth of this evidence base, resulting in confusion as to where repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation fits in the therapeutic armamentarium in the management of patients with mood disorders. The purpose of this article is to provide a concise description of the evidence base supporting the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the context of the stages of research that typically accompanies the development of evidence for a new therapy. The antidepressant efficacy for the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of depression has been established through a relatively traditional pathway beginning with small case series, progressing to single-site clinical trials and then to larger multisite randomised double-blind controlled trials. Antidepressant effects have been confirmed in numerous meta-analyses followed more recently by large network meta-analysis and umbrella reviews, with evidence that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may have greater efficacy than alternatives for patients with treatment-resistant depression. Finally, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation has been shown to produce meaningful response and remission rates in real-world samples of greater than 5000 patients. The evidence for the antidepressant efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy is overwhelming, and it should be considered a routine part of clinical care wherever available.
Doing transgender ‘right’: Bodies, eroticism and spirituality in khwajasira work
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Junaid , Pianezzi Daniela , Awan Muhammad Aqeel
Published: August 2021

The regulative and oppressive effects of gender norms on bodies of transgender workers have been mostly explored in standard binary gender work settings. We explore the regulative effects of specialized transgender work regimes by posing the following two questions: how do specialized transgendered work regimes regulate transgender work and bodies? and how do transgender workers cope with these regimes? Through a case study of khwajasiras, a community of male-to-female transgender people in Pakistan, we explain how competing and conflicting body ideals of hyper-eroticism, spirituality, and hybridity set by these regimes, allow khwajasiras to transgress the binary gender norms. Ironically, however, these specialized work regimes have their own regulative and oppressive effects on khwajasiras’ bodies and work. We then demonstrate how khwajasiras cope with these regulative effects in three different ways: embracing the body ideals, strategically shifting work and body across the regimes, and relegating body norms as unimportant for being a transgender. We finally argue that these differences in enacting different form of transgenderness is an outcome of a tight coupling or contradiction between audiences, khwajasira community and individual workers’ own sense of transgender authenticity.
Storytelling and Success: How Storytelling Can be Used to Promote Diversity, Cross-Cultural Understanding, and Confidence in the Classroom
Authors: Dunn Taylor Morgan , Cherup Susan
Published: August 2021

Storytelling plays an important role in preserving historical and cultural traditions. Research proves it is beneficial to utilize in the classroom setting as well. One college seeks to cultivate an interest in storytelling for teacher education candidates by having storytelling incorporated into their future classrooms. In two of the education courses, Education (EDUC) 488—Cross Cultural Education; Native American Studies, and Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) 200—Encounter with Cultures, prospective teachers gain an appreciation of different cultures and traditions through storytelling. This article will address the personal and teaching benefits that arise from implementing storytelling into classroom curriculum.
A Case for Caution: Twenty-One Years of Bologna and Ramifications for the U.S. Higher Education
Authors: Mngo Zachary
Published: August 2021

The spread and influence of older European higher education models and the current Bologna Process (BP) is strongly linked to its colonial and neocolonial hegemony. However, the 1999 convergence of European models under the umbrella of the BP reform has had implications beyond the colonial and neocolonial spheres, with its effects impacting even the well-established and reputable education systems of North America. Unlike the countries of Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia Pacific, and the United States did not have any reasons to embrace the BP models. However, they are indirectly affected by it. The international nature of academe, characterized by cooperation and exchanges, has made it impossible for United States tertiary education systems to avoid the effects of the European BP reform entirely. Student and faculty mobility, transferability of degrees, and joint and dual degree offerings have increased significantly as a result of the “external dimension” objectives of the Bologna reform. The highly globalized higher education market is characterized by partnerships and exchanges, including competition between European and the United States colleges and universities over international students. The BP ultimately has and will likely continue to influence the calculations of higher education stakeholders in the United States.
The Nexus of Autonomy and Instructional Leadership in Selected School Clusters in Zimbabwe
Authors: Makaye Jeriphanos , Jita Loyiso C. , Mapetere Kudakwashe
Published: August 2021

This article examines the nexus of autonomy and instructional leadership in school clusters in Zimbabwe. Using the Better Schools Programme of Zimbabwe cluster, teachers and school heads were interviewed on their perspectives on how autonomy influences instructional leadership practices. Results established that clusters provide schools with the freedom to determine the activities deemed necessary to improve student learning. However, although autonomy is prescribed in the policy, inadequate resources provided to schools render them less autonomous and ineffective in this endeavor. The article argues for a more deliberate and deeper discourse about the challenges of balancing autonomy and control.
Building a Culture of Intellectual Risk-Taking: Isolating the Pedagogical Elements of the Harkness Method
Authors: Soutter Madora , Clark Shelby
Published: August 2021

Intellectual risk-taking, the act of engaging in learning by contributing an idea, question, or creative thought regardless of potential errors or judgments, is associated with many positive student outcomes; however, there is limited guidance on how to create an environment in which students feel empowered to be courageous in this way. In the present qualitative study, we examine the Harkness Method with the goal of identifying the specific elements of this complex, discussion-based, pedagogical approach that contribute to intellectual risk-taking. We ultimately present an empirically grounded theoretical framework to serve as a guide for building a culture of intellectual risk-taking.
Blame the Bot: Anthropomorphism and Anger in Customer–Chatbot Interactions
Authors: Crolic Cammy , Thomaz Felipe , Hadi Rhonda , Stephen Andrew T.
Published: August 2021

Chatbots have become common in digital customer service contexts across many industries. While many companies choose to humanize their customer service chatbots (e.g., giving them names and avatars), little is known about how anthropomorphism influences customer responses to chatbots in service settings. Across five studies, including an analysis of a large real-world data set from an international telecommunications company and four experiments, the authors find that when customers enter a chatbot-led service interaction in an angry emotional state, chatbot anthropomorphism has a negative effect on customer satisfaction, overall firm evaluation, and subsequent purchase intentions. However, this is not the case for customers in nonangry emotional states. The authors uncover the underlying mechanism driving this negative effect (expectancy violations caused by inflated pre-encounter expectations of chatbot efficacy) and offer practical implications for managers. These findings suggest that it is important to both carefully design chatbots and consider the emotional context in which they are used, particularly in customer service interactions that involve resolving problems or handling complaints.
Robot Death and Human Grief in Films: Qualitative Study
Authors: Kang Youngjin
Published: August 2021

Extant grief studies examine the way humans mourn the loss of a nonhuman, be it an animal, object, or abstract concept. Yet little is known about grief when it comes to robots. As humans are increasingly brought into contact with more human-like machines, it is relevant to consider the nature of our relationship to these technologies. Centered on a qualitative analysis of 35 films, this study seeks to determine whether humans experience grief when a robot is destroyed, and if so, under what conditions. Our observations of the relevant film scenes suggest that eight variables play a role in determining whether and to what extent a human experiences grief in response to a robot's destruction. As a result, we have devised a psychological mechanism by which different types of grief can be classified as a function of these eight variables.
Between containment and crackdown in Geylang, Singapore: Urban crime control as the statecrafting of migrant exclusion
Authors: Greener Joe , Naegler Laura
Published: August 2021

Based on a case study conducted in Geylang, Singapore, this article explores the role of urban policing, surveillance and crime control as mechanisms of social ordering that contribute to the marginalisation of excluded groups, including low-income migrant workers and sex workers. Adopting a statecraft approach that emphasises the significance of ‘governing through crime’ for the upholding of urban political-economic projects, we examine the entanglement of political discourses and crime and social control practices as co-constructive of class- and race-based inequality in Singapore. Drawing from qualitative interviews with NGO workers and sex workers, augmented by extensive non-participant observations, we identify three processes through which state power is vectored in Geylang: the stigmatisation of the neighbourhood through association with marginalised groups, legitimising intense spatialised intervention; the enacting of performative zero-tolerance policing; and the containment and surveillance of illicit activities within the neighbourhood. Contributing to discussions that advance the statecraft approach to researching urban crime control, the article shows that seemingly contradictory practices of tolerance and intervention constitute strategies of governance. The article argues that spatially specific crime control practices in Geylang generated an exclusionary ‘spectacle’ which symbolically connects low-income migrant workers with deviance, in turn supporting citizenship exclusion, racialised marginality and a wider politics of capital accumulation resting on disempowered labour. As we argue, crime control policies are an important form of statecraft legitimising an urban political economy that is heavily reliant on low-cost labour provided by migrant workers.
Evaluating Fairness of Algorithmic Risk Assessment Instruments: The Problem With Forcing Dichotomies
Authors: Zottola Samantha A. , Desmarais Sarah L. , Lowder Evan M. , Duhart Clarke Sarah E.
Published: August 2021

Researchers and stakeholders have developed many definitions to evaluate whether algorithmic pretrial risk assessment instruments are fair in terms of their error and accuracy. Error and accuracy are often operationalized using three sets of indicators: false-positive and false-negative percentages, false-positive and false-negative rates, and positive and negative predictive value. To calculate these indicators, a threshold must be set, and continuous risk scores must be dichotomized. We provide a data-driven examination of these three sets of indicators using data from three studies on the most widely used algorithmic pretrial risk assessment instruments: the Public Safety Assessment, the Virginia Pretrial Risk Assessment Instrument, and the Federal Pretrial Risk Assessment. Overall, our findings highlight how conclusions regarding fairness are affected by the limitations of these indicators. Future work should move toward examining whether there are biases in how the risk assessment scores are used to inform decision-making.
The Empirical Case for Pretrial Risk Assessment Instruments
Authors: Desmarais Sarah L. , Monahan John , Austin James
Published: August 2021

Pretrial risk assessment instruments are used in many jurisdictions to inform decisions regarding pretrial release and conditions. Many are concerned that the use of pretrial risk assessment instruments may be contributing to worsened, not improved, pretrial outcomes, including increased rates of pretrial detention and exacerbated racial disparities in pretrial decisions. These concerns have led prominent organizations to reverse their position on the role of pretrial risk assessment instruments in pretrial system change. Reforms that centered on their use have been rolled back or have failed to be implemented in the first place. However, the scientific evidence behind these concerns is lacking. Instead, the findings of rigorous research show that the results of pretrial risk assessment instruments demonstrate good accuracy in predicting new criminal activity, including violent crime, during the pretrial period, even when there are differences between groups defined by race and ethnicity. Furthermore, the scientific evidence suggests they can be an effective strategy to help achieve pretrial system change, including reducing pretrial detention for people of color and white people, alike, when their results are actually used to inform decision-making. In this article, we review the scientific evidence in relation to three primary critiques of pretrial risk assessment instruments, namely, that their results have poor accuracy and are racially biased and that their use increases pretrial detention rates. We also provide recommendations for addressing these critiques to ensure that their use supports, rather than detracts from, the goals of pretrial reform and articulates an agenda for future research.
Stabilizer design for an under-actuated autonomous underwater vehicle in a descriptor model under unknown time delay and uncertainty
Authors: Hedayati Khodayari Mohammad , Pariz Naser , Balochian Saeed
Published: August 2021

This paper focuses on autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) stabilization in the nonlinear descriptor model, as well as some AUV limitations such as model uncertainty, singularity, saturation constraint, and time delay. The capability of the descriptor model to show the real model is more reasonable than the standard state-space model. Based on the constructed Lyapunov function method and applying the bilinear matrix inequalities technique, all of the constraints are handled by introducing the new theorem. This theorem aims to design a state feedback with the intent that the closed-loop system be admissible. Here, the results are less conservative than other approaches. This issue has not yet been fully addressed in the literature, especially on AUVs. Theorem achievement is implemented on new AUV descriptor model that is obtained and introduced here. This method covers both neutral and descriptor systems. Also, it can be generalized and applied to conventional AUVs or similar dynamics. Examples and simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Continuous reinforcement learning based ramp jump control for single-track two-wheeled robots
Authors: Zheng Qingyuan , Wang Duo , Chen Zhang , Sun Yiyong , Liang Bin
Published: August 2021

Single-track two-wheeled robots have become an important research topic in recent years, owing to their simple structure, energy savings and ability to run on narrow roads. However, the ramp jump remains a challenging task. In this study, we propose to realize a single-track two-wheeled robot ramp jump. We present a control method that employs continuous action reinforcement learning techniques for single-track two-wheeled robot control. We design a novel reward function for reinforcement learning, optimize the dimensions of the action space, and enable training under the deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm. Finally, we validate the control method through simulation experiments and successfully realize the single-track two-wheeled robot ramp jump task. Simulation results validate that the control method is effective and has several advantages over high-dimension action space control, reinforcement learning control of sparse reward function and discrete action reinforcement learning control.
Resilient adaptive event-triggered H∞ control for networked stochastic control systems under denial-of-service attacks
Authors: Xie Xuhuan , Li Shanbin , Xu Bugong , Li Qinxue
Published: August 2021

This paper addresses the problem of resilient adaptive event-triggered control (AETC) for networked stochastic control systems (NSCSs) in the presence of the external disturbance and the energy-constrained, nonperiodic denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. A novel adaptive event-triggered scheme (AETS) that considers the effect of the energy-constrained, nonperiodic DoS attacks on the communication network is proposed to reduce the usage of system resources and adapt the variation of the plant state, and the model of closed-loop control system is established in the framework of time-delay systems and switched systems. Then, based on the Lyapunov stability theory, the stability criterion and the co-design algorithm are derived, which are used to ensure that the closed-loop control system is stochastically exponentially stable (SES) with an [Formula: see text] disturbance attenuation performance and to implement the co-design of state-feedback controller and proposed AETS, respectively. Unlike the network-based [Formula: see text] control approach for NSCSs in the existing literature, the resilient adaptive event-triggered network-based [Formula: see text] control approach proposed in this paper not only can considerably save the usage of system resources, but also can be resilient towards the energy-constrained, nonperiodic DoS attacks. Finally, a resilient AETC for the F16 aircraft system shows the effectiveness and superiority of proposed strategy.
Control of activated sludge treatment process using pre-compensated multi-variable quantitative feedback theory-based controller
Authors: Chakravarty Sandipan Prasad , Roy Aniket , Roy Prasanta
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with the design of a pre-compensated multi-variable quantitative feedback theory (QFT)-based fully populated matrix controller for an activated sludge treatment process (ASTP) of a waste water treatment plant (WWTP). The regulation of the concentration of biochemical oxygen demand ([Formula: see text]) and ammonium-ion ([Formula: see text]) is the control objective. The plant dynamics are obtained using physical laws available in the literature. The parametric uncertainty is quantified from the measurement data obtained from a real ASTP of an oil refinery. The model is duly cross-validated. A novel technique is proposed to design a pre-compensator that will enhance the diagonal dominance of the plant transfer function matrix. A diagonal controller and a pre-filter, are then designed using a sequential multi-input multi-output (MIMO) QFT-based methodology to meet a set of performance specifications such as relative stability, disturbance rejection, robust tracking and so forth. The simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. A comparative analysis with reported works shows that the proposed control scheme outperforms some of the reported control strategies.
Adaptive finite-time control for stochastic nonlinear systems using multi-dimensional Taylor network
Authors: Zhu Shan-Liang , Wang Ming-Xin , Han Yu-Qun
Published: August 2021

In this paper, the problem of adaptive finite-time multi-dimensional Taylor network (MTN) control for a class of stochastic nonlinear systems is investigated. By combining the MTN-based approximate method and adaptive backstepping technique, a novel adaptive finite-time MTN control scheme is proposed. In this scheme, the MTNs are used to approximate the unknown nonlinear functions of the systems. The finite-time Lyapunov stability theory is utilized to prove the stability of the close-loop system. The proposed scheme can ensure that all signals in the closed-loop system are bounded in probability and the tracking error converges to a small neighborhood of the origin in a finite time. Three simulation examples are presented to show the effectiveness of the control scheme. It should be pointed that the adaptive MTN controller proposed in this paper has the advantages of fast computational speed and good real-time performance thanks to the simple structure of the MTN.