bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study of an Evaporative Exchanger Based on Fired Clay
Authors: Cisse Salifou , Kabore Boureima , Ouedraogo Germain Wende Pouire , Kam Sié , Bathiebo Dieudonné Joseph
Published: March 2024

Evaporative air coolers are one of the alternatives to conventional air conditioners for cooling the air in the building. These systems consume less energy and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases. This work is a numerical study of an evaporative exchanger based on fired clay plates using COMSOL Multiphysics software. It was interested in hygrothermal transfers for air cooling. This study allowed to highlight the impact of the gap between the fired clay plates, the speed of the area as well as the air temperature at the inlet of the exchanger on the evolution of temperature and relative humidity of the air along the fired porous clay plates. The thermal efficiency of the exchanger was subsequently evaluated. This study allowed to note that there is a drop of 14 K along the porous plates of fired clay. Speed has an influence on outlet temperatures and relative humidity. For a speed of 0.2m/s, the temperature variation is 16 K and for speeds ranging from 2 m/s to 4m/s, the temperature variations are approximately 17 K. For gaps in porous plates of fired clay less than 2cm, the thermal efficiency varies 92% to 98%.
Food-Based Intervention for Boosting Micronutrient Status and Health - A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Nyamete Frida , Majaliwa Nuria , Chove Lucy
Published: March 2024

Food fortification and supplementation represent crucial strategies for combating the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, adolescents, and pregnant women. However, the efficacy of interventions in increasing nutrient bioavailability primarily hinges on incorporating nutrient-rich foods and employing suitable food preparation techniques. Research underscores the significant potential of food-based approaches in augmenting micronutrient intake and fostering optimal growth and development. This comprehensive review assesses findings from 36 articles published within the last decade, focusing on food-based interventions aimed at alleviating micronutrient deficiencies in Africa. Analysis reveals that ten trials yielded positive outcomes across all growth metrics, albeit one study showed no significant changes in height Z scores. While two trials did not observe alterations in serum levels, twelve reported improvements in biochemical markers, and four noted enhanced cognitive and academic performance among school children. Despite these encouraging results, advancing food-based solutions to enhance dietary micronutrient quality and mitigate associated health challenges necessitates further investigation. It is imperative to underscore the importance of consuming a balanced diet comprising a diverse range of foods and adhering to recommended food preparation practices to minimize food loss and waste. By prioritizing these measures, individuals can safeguard against micronutrient deficiencies and promote sustained healthy growth and development. In conclusion, while food fortification and supplementation play pivotal roles in addressing micronutrient deficiencies, integrating nutrient-rich foods and appropriate food preparation methods emerges as crucial components in maximizing the effectiveness of interventions. Continued research efforts are essential to refine food-based solutions and ensure their widespread accessibility, ultimately contributing to improved nutritional outcomes and overall well-being in vulnerable populations across Africa and beyond.
The Status and Challenges of HIV Services in Niger State: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Providers and Clients
Authors: Gbadeyan Olabimpe , Daniel Ebenezer Obi , Gbadeyan Adeola John , Abidoye Oladele , Clark Joseph , Onoja Shadrack , Bello Ahmed Mamuda , Avwerhota Michael , Inegbeboh Christiana Asibi-Ogben , Popoola Israel Olukayode , Tomori Michael Olabode , Ogun Adebanke Adetutu , Olagbegi Oladapo Michael
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The incidence of HIV/AIDS in Nigerian is on the decline, but with the trio of high inflation, high unemployment, and high terrorism in the country; lot of synergies are still needed to end the HIV scourge. Objective: The study was carried out to determine the status of HIV services in Niger state. Method: A cross-sectional survey, using a simple randomization sampling method, and the client’s viewpoint in health facilities across Niger state was undertaken to examine the challenges faced by HIV service providers. Data from 351 HIV providers, 361 clients were collected using questionnaires; IBM and Pearson correlation were used for descriptive and inferential statistics respectively. Results: The mean age of the providers was (M = 30.50, SD = 8.2). Challenges included poor salary (M = 2.44, SD = 1.16), staff shortage (M = 3.01, SD = 1.24), lack of recognition & incentives (M = 2.57, SD = 0.99; M = 2.63, SD = 1.08), others were infrastructural deficit, inadequate funding, training and materials; poor electricity and internet; lack of research and unionism among others. The non-enabling factors challenges were burnt out (M = 3.01, SD = 0.99), insecurity (M = 3.51, SD = 1.09), working extra hours (M = 3.02; SD = 0,98), migration desire (M = 3.87, SD = 1.06). Conclusion: It is highly overdue, that all HIV stakeholders in the country take complete custodian of all HIV service components; come up with a sustainable policy to steer toward HIV eradication program, by increasing the enabling factors, and reducing the non-enabling factors.
UN peacekeeping upon deployment: Peacekeeping activities in theory and practice
Authors: Otto Sabine , Kube Felix , Smidt Hannah
Published: March 2024

United Nations peacekeeping operations (UNPKO) have been deployed in conflict-affected countries for decades. While we thoroughly understand what UNPKOs are mandated to do, there is little research on what activities peacekeepers actually do upon deployment in their host countries and in which sequence, if any. To address this gap, we formulate descriptive hypotheses about the number of implemented peacekeeping activities, the expansion toward new activity categories, and the sequencing of implemented activities. We use the novel Extended Peacekeeping Activity Dataset to evaluate our theoretical expectations for all UNPKOs deployed after the end of the Cold War until 2017. Our findings show that UNPKOs implement more activities over time. Yet, the expansion of UNPKOs’ activities into new activity categories by generation (second, third, and stabilization) is not as clear-cut in practice as expected. Instead, there is a notable expansion of activities within activity categories—especially during third-generation UNPKOs. Finally, we find a security-first sequencing for second- and third-generation UNPKOs, while stabilization UNPKOs implement a high share of security activities long after initial deployment.
Improved windowed phase difference method for frequency estimation of distorted power signals
Authors: Li Chengcheng , Wan Yuan , Pan Pingheng , Hu Bian , Zhang Junhao
Published: March 2024

Frequency is one of the most significant indicators of power system, which needs accurate estimation to provide a reliable basis for monitoring, control, and protection. Owning to the efficiency, DFT is widely used in the frequency measurement of power systems. However, the inherent defects, that is, the spectral leakage and picket fence effect, decrease the accuracy of DFT. One of the variants, named the windowed phase difference method (WPD), addresses the problem using the phase variation of two windowed sequences in the frequency domain and achieves accurate frequency estimation. Suffering from the ignored negative component and contamination of noise, there are still undesired errors in WPD-based frequency estimation. To reduce the influence of the undesired errors, this paper first analyzes the systematic error of WPD introduced by spectrum leakage and proposes an improved WPD (IWPD) through systematic error compensation to achieve more accurate frequency estimations. Then, the windowing effect on IWPD-based frequency estimation of a noisy signal is studied by deducing the theoretical expression of frequency estimation variance. Finally, the proposed IWPD is validated by extensive computer simulations and practical experiments.
Enactors of the State: The Everyday Coproduction of Security in the Prevention of Radicalisation
Authors: Holland Jack , Higham-James Natalie
Published: March 2024

Since 2001, studies of (counter)terrorism and (counter)radicalisation have burgeoned. However, at times, these literatures have reduced the agency of ordinary citizens, imagining them as ‘actors of the state’ and ‘petty sovereigns’. By integrating vernacular security approaches with allied research in Education, we develop a novel ontological conceptualisation of ordinary citizens as ‘enactors of the state’, engaged in the everyday coproduction of security. The article presents the findings of a survey, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and participant observations, conducted in Manchester’s Further Education sector, following the 2017 Arena attack. We capture the security enactments of 95 elites, professionals, teachers, and students. Our data reveal the complex interactions, ensembles, and assemblages at the heart of security’s everyday coproduction. In contrast to existing approaches, we show how this creative dynamic operates through citizens’ variegated imbrications with state policy, complex relationalities, and subtle nuances in everyday enactment.
“It Makes Them Want to Suffer in Silence Rather Than Risk Facing Ridicule”: Youth Perspectives on Mental Health Stigma
Authors: Austin Laura J. , Browne Rebecca K. , Carreiro Megan , Larson Anna G. , Khreizat Ivana , DeJonckheere Melissa , Schwartz Sarah E. O.
Published: March 2024

Despite high rates of mental health concerns among youth, they are unlikely to receive mental health care, with mental health stigma acting as a barrier. The present study explores youth perceptions of the influences of stigma and what should be done to address it, drawing on a large ( n = 705) mixed methods dataset of youth aged 14 to 24 from the National MyVoice Text Message Cohort. Thematic analysis indicated four themes: (1) perceptions of high levels of ignorance about mental health, (2) a continuum from a desire for greater openness to a desire for privacy related to mental health, (3) feeling shamed and dismissed for mental health concerns, and (4) the role of adults in perpetuating of mental health stigma and adults’ responsibility in combating it. Subgroup comparisons revealed variations in endorsement of themes based on gender, age, and race/ethnicity. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Master Narratives and Resistance Narratives: How Women of Color on Community College STEM Education Pathways Push Back
Authors: Choi Yoon Ha
Published: March 2024

Objective/Research Question: Master narratives, as theorized using a critical race perspective, are stories of the majority that function to obscure and normalize the oppressive operation of power in society. Counternarratives are the stories of minoritized individuals which expose and challenge the stories of the majority. This study examined master and counternarratives in STEM to uncover taken-for-granted power dynamics and hierarchies that systemically exclude and minoritize women of color on community college STEM education pathways. Methods: Narrative interviews were conducted with 12 women of color who were current or former community college STEM students. These interviews were analyzed according to the sensibilities of feminist narrative methodology. Results: Analysis of narratives resulted in three resistance narratives, or the different ways participants made sense of and pushed back against master narratives regarding what it means to be a woman of color in STEM. The three resistance narratives identified were: (1) taking action with the support of others, (2) connecting to something greater than oneself, and (3) redefining one’s identity and goals. Conclusions/Contributions: Attending to individual resistance narratives can unveil harmful master narratives in STEM that hinder the participation and success of diverse individuals. This study urges STEM researchers and practitioners to look beyond blaming individuals for “failing” to fit into the status quo of STEM and to devise solutions that will disrupt oppressive norms and practices that become normalized through unexamined master narratives in STEM.
A Rare Case of Anatomical Variation of Inferior Thyroid Artery Originated From the Brachiocephalic Trunk During Retrosternal Goiter Excision
Authors: Yang Lei , Hu Xiao , Luo Jinxian
Published: March 2024

Vascular variations are prevalent among the human population. However, the occurrence of anatomical variations in the inferior thyroid artery originating directly from the brachiocephalic trunk (BCT) is exceptionally rare, as confirmed by numerous research studies. In addition, reliable departmental statistics reveal that the incidence rate of retrosternal goiter is approximately 19%. In this case study, the variation blood vessels in the neck were accidentally found and analyzed. Simultaneously, we conducted an analysis on the clinical significance of a rare anatomical variation. The study focused on a 60-year-old female patient who underwent a surgery for retrosternal goiter, during which it was discovered that the inferior thyroid artery originated from the BCT. Our report presented a unique case involving this particular combination of anatomical variations within the BCT. The anatomical variation reported in our study will effectively reduce the risk of patients and enhance our comprehension of this anatomy’s characteristics, thereby avoiding the occurrence of iatrogenic complications.
The usefulness of staged extra-anatomic bypass for coarctation of the aorta with arch hypoplasia, from premature neonate to adult
Authors: Nagashima Toshiaki , Taira Masaki , Hasegawa Moyu , Kugo Yosuke , Watanabe Takuji , Miyagawa Shigeru
Published: March 2024

Various surgical techniques have been developed for coarctation of the aorta. However, coarctation repair in neonates with arch hypoplasia remains challenging. We herein report a case in which a premature neonate under 1500 g with coarctation of the aorta and arch hypoplasia underwent an extra-anatomical bypass at 18 days old. A second extra-anatomical bypass was performed at 3 years of age, and a third extra-anatomic bypass for recurrent coarctation was performed in adulthood. By increasing the size of the graft as the patient grows, extra-anatomic bypass can be a useful surgical option for premature neonates with coarctation and arch hypoplasia.
An online community of interns: Examining the music student teaching seminar in a virtual setting
Authors: Baumgartner Christopher M , Councill Kimberly H , Payne Phillip D , Gurgel Ruth
Published: March 2024

Communities of Practice are integral as a network for engaging in regular interactions, sharing resources, and offering support. As online collegiate communities continue to expand, exploration of virtual courses—specifically, the music student teaching seminar—seems necessary. The purpose of this instrumental case study was to describe music student teachers’ (MSTs, N = 20) and instructors’ experiences in a virtual music student teaching seminar in the United States. Data collection included (a) observations of weekly seminar meetings; (b) focus group interviews with MSTs and seminar instructors; (c) text chat transcripts from virtual meetings and the class Facebook® group; and (d) course documents. Findings highlight the successes and challenges of developing, instructing, and facilitating the seminar in a virtual space, the perceived impact of online chat platforms/functions as an instructional and reflective tool, the benefits of regular seminar meetings, and participants’ perceived purpose of the music student teaching seminar.
Effect of laser shock peening on wear resistance of M50 steel
Authors: Sun Yufeng , Yu Xingfu , Liu Weijun , Su Yong , Wei Yinghua , Wang Quanzhen
Published: March 2024

The effects of laser shock peening (LSP) on the surface state and wear resistance of M50 steel are studied by microstructure observation, hardness, and residual stress detection. Results show that after LSP, the carbides on the surface of steel are broken and micro-pits appear. After removing the surface carbide damage by electrolytic polishing, the number of sub-surface carbides increases, and the maximum content is 26.1%. After LSP, the wear resistance of the steel is improved because LSP causes a large residual compressive stress on the surface. The wear performance of the sample after removing the surface damage becomes better, which is related to the elimination of many crack sources and the larger residual compressive stress.
Accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation for psychological distress in advanced cancer: A phase 2a feasibility and preliminary efficacy clinical trial
Authors: Downar James , Lapenskie Julie , Anderson Koby , Edwards Jodi , Watt Christine , Dionne Michel , Rice Jill , Kabir Monisha , Lawlor Peter , Downar Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Background:

Psychological and existential suffering affects many people with advanced illness, and current therapeutic options have limited effectiveness. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a safe and effective therapy for refractory depression, but no previous study has used rTMS to treat psychological or existential distress in the palliative setting.

Aim:

To determine whether a 5-day course of “accelerated” rTMS is feasible and can improve psychological and/or existential distress in a palliative care setting.

Design:

Open-label, single arm, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy study of intermittent theta-burst stimulation to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, 600 pulses/session, 8 sessions/day (once per hour) for 5 days. The outcomes were the rates of recruitment, completion of intervention, and follow-up (Feasibility); and the proportion of participants achieving 50% improvement on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) or Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) 2 weeks post-treatment (Preliminary Efficacy).

Setting/participants:

Adults admitted to our academic Palliative Care Unit with advanced illness, life expectancy >1 month and psychological distress.

Results:

Due to COVID-19 pandemic-related interruptions, a total of nine participants were enrolled between August 2021 and April 2023. Two withdrew before starting rTMS, one stopped due to clinical deterioration unrelated to rTMS, and six completed the rTMS treatment. Five of six participants had a >50% improvement in HDRS, HADS-Anxiety, or both between baseline and the 2 week follow up; the sixth died prior to the 2-week follow-up. In this small sample, mean depression scores decreased from baseline to 2 weeks post-treatment (HDRS 18 vs 7, p = 0.03). Side effects of rTMS included transient mild scalp discomfort.

Conclusions:

Accelerated rTMS improved symptoms of depression, anxiety, or both in this small feasibility and preliminary efficacy study. A larger, sham-controlled study is warranted to determine whether rTMS could be an effective, acceptable, and scalable treatment in the palliative setting.

Trial registration:

NCT04257227
Specific adverse outcomes associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors use in COVID-19 patients might be potentiated by remdesivir use
Authors: Papic Ivan , Bistrovic Petra , Krecak Ivan , Ortner Hadziabdic Maja , Lucijanic Marko
Published: March 2024

Background:

Due to non-consistent reports in the literature, there are uncertainties about the potential benefits and harms of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Aim:

To investigate associations of SSRIs with clinical characteristics and unwanted outcomes among real-life severe and critical COVID-19 patients and their relationship with remdesivir (RDV) use.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study evaluated a total of 1558 COVID-19 patients of the white race treated in a tertiary center institution, among them 779 patients treated with RDV and 779 1:1 case-matched patients.

Results:

A total of 78 (5%) patients were exposed to SSRIs during hospitalization, similarly distributed among patients treated with RDV and matched patients (5.1 and 4.9%). No significant associations of SSRI use with age, sex, comorbidity burden, and COVID-19 severity were present in either of the two cohorts ( p > 0.05 for all analyses). In multivariate analyses adjusted for clinically meaningful variables, SSRI use was significantly associated with higher mortality among RDV (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.0, p = 0.049) and matched patients (aOR 2.22, p = 0.044) and with higher risk for mechanical-ventilation (aOR 2.57, p = 0.006), venous-thromboembolism (aOR 3.69, p = 0.007), and bacteremia (aOR 2.22, p = 0.049) among RDV treated patients.

Conclusions:

Adverse outcomes associated with SSRI use in COVID-19 patients might be potentiated by RDV use, and clinically significant interactions between these two drug classes might exist. Although our findings raise important considerations for clinical practice, they are limited by retrospective nature of the study, lack of ethnic diversity, and the potential for unmeasured confounding factors. Future studies exploring underlying biological mechanisms are needed.
Perfusion imaging by arterial spin labeling in migraine: A literature review
Authors: Schramm Severin , Börner Corinna , Reichert Miriam , Hoffmann Gabriel , Kaczmarz Stephan , Griessmair Michael , Jung Kirsten , Berndt Maria T , Zimmer Claus , Baum Thomas , Heinen Florian , Bonfert Michaela V , Sollmann Nico
Published: March 2024

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method for the assessment of cerebral blood flow (CBF). This review summarizes recent ASL-based investigations in adult and pediatric patients with migraine with aura, migraine without aura, and chronic migraine. A systematic search according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted within PubMed and reference sections of articles identified from April 2014 to November 2022. Out of 236 initial articles, 20 remained after filtering, encompassing data from 1155 subjects in total. Cross-sectional studies in adults showed inconsistent results, while longitudinal studies demonstrated that cerebral perfusion changes over the migraine cycle can be tracked using ASL. The most consistent findings were observed in ictal states among pediatric migraine patients, where studies showed hypoperfusion matching aura symptoms during early imaging followed by hyperperfusion. Overall, ASL is a useful but currently underutilized modality for evaluating cerebral perfusion in patients with migraine. The generalizability of results is currently limited by heterogeneities regarding study design and documentation of clinical variables (e.g., relation of attacks to scanning timepoint, migraine subtypes). Future MRI studies should consider augmenting imaging protocols with ASL to further elucidate perfusion dynamics in migraine.
From Talk to Action: How Small Steps Can Make a Big Impact in Marketing Education for Climate Action
Authors: Rodriguez-Tejedo Isabel , Etayo Cristina
Published: March 2024

This study analyzes the effectiveness of two low-cost and easy-to-implement activities (a brief talk and a case discussion) in engendering interest and awareness toward climate action in a typical Principles of Marketing course. Our findings indicate that, consistent with existing research, women are more likely to be concerned about climate change and more willing to contribute to its mitigation. We found that the talk alone had limited effects, only increasing the likelihood of students reporting the importance of climate change education in their business degree and marketing classes. However, the combined approach of talk and case discussion had a more far-reaching impact, as students reported, for example, a higher willingness to donate, volunteer, and change behavior. These results suggest that even a limited and easily applied intervention can have positive effects on the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13.
Repetition blindness in a saccadic persistence of vision display
Authors: Nelson Rolf , Shelto Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

A form of repetition blindness in visually unimpaired individuals was found for objects presented during saccades. Observers were asked to draw their percepts after making saccades across an LED strip that “painted” an image on their retinas by presenting sequential columns of a bitmap at a speed to match a 30-degree saccade. During experimental trials, repetitions of a single letter (either “A,” “X,” “H,” or “V”) were presented across saccades. Although an average of six letters were presented across each saccade, observers typically indicated perceiving only a single instance of the letter in their drawings. This inability to perceive multiple instances of a letter was not due to a limited region of attentional processing, as it only attained for multiple instances along the axis of the saccade—horizontal saccades did not affect perception of multiple letters along the vertical axis. This effect is likely due to selective suppression of visual areas during saccades.
A Qualitative Exploration of How Black Mothers Experiencing Poverty Make Sense of the Strong Black Woman Stereotype
Authors: Malcome Marion L.
Published: March 2024

The strong Black woman (SBW) stereotype is a universal phenomenon understood and experienced by Black women. In this qualitative study, I examined how 16 Black women who are mothers make sense of the SBW stereotype, highlighting how their lived experiences of mothering children in high-burden urban neighborhoods and their experiences at the intersection of race, class, and gender, shape their understanding of the SBW stereotype. Using qualitative phenomenological methods and semi-structured interviews, thematic analysis of interview data revealed three main themes regarding the perception and experience of the SBW stereotype as: (a) ambiguous and contested expectations central to Black motherhood, (b) engenders a sense of loss, and (c) shapes the experience and expression of depression. Study findings support and extend a growing body of work linking the SBW stereotype to depressive symptoms and overall mental health among Black women. This study also highlights the importance of examining how Black women's intersectional identities and contexts, in this case place or where one lives, shape the experience and perception of the SBW stereotype. My hope is that clinicians develop a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the SBW stereotype and its potential mental health effects for all Black mothers. Findings also suggest a need for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to create empowering opportunities for Black mothers, especially those mothering in impoverished contexts, to express their authentic and whole selves in service of healing themselves, their families, and communities.
Hand Castings of Children With Terminal Illnesses From Cancer Can Provide Comfort to Grieving Families
Authors: Lin Yu-Ting , Chiu Chia-Chi , Wen Yu-Chuan , Jaing Tang-Her
Published: March 2024

Registered nurses have voluntarily created hand casts for families, providing comfort during challenging moments. Hand casting moves the patient's family and nurses. As requested by parents, staff apply a quick-drying gel to sick children's hands and feet. After preparing the gel mold, alginate molding powder is poured in and hardened for many days. Parents mourn their children with great sensitivity. Every mold and hospital bedside we go to offers closure to the lost child's dying moments. A compelling benefit of a three-dimensional hand-cast is preserving a passing moment.
A Journey of Uncertainty: Learned Lessons From the Lived Experiences of Nurses in Kuwait Taking Care of COVID-19 Patients in the Early Pandemic
Authors: Alshammari Muna , Aldiabat Khaldoun
Published: March 2024

Purpose of the Study: This study explored the experiences of nurses in Kuwait who worked with COVID-19 patients during the first wave of the disease. Study Design: This was a qualitative descriptive study. Methods Used: In-depth interviews were conducted with seven (7) nurses who worked in intensive care units between September 2020 and March 2021. Findings: The experiences of Kuwait nurses in COVID-19 care showed an evolving journey of dealing with a strange and complex disease. With little known about the disease, the nurses approached COVID-19 care with uncertainty and ambivalence, unsure of where this journey would look like. Four themes emerged from the data and they included (1) from challenges to coping, (2) focusing on good health throughout the pandemic, (3) navigating through scarce resources and power dynamics, and (4) a multi-dimensional burden. Conclusions: Despite the difficulties encountered, supportive systems such as the availability of medical supplies, and support from superiors, colleagues, the community, and families, helped Kuwait nurses to cope with the stresses of an early COVID-19 pandemic while providing care. This approach takes a holistic stance to care for both patients and the nurses working in an epidemic setting.
Designing a time path tracking stabilizing controller for a tractor-trailer robot in the presence of uncertainties
Authors: Li Zhuo , Yin Changjun , Peng Ziting , Zhou Chenhang , Jalanezhad Mostafa
Published: March 2024

In this article, the discussion of track tracking in tractor-trailer systems with the condition of non-slip and non-holonomic multi-controllers is presented. One of the significant issues in the control of this system is the limitation and saturation of operators, which in real conditions causes serious challenges in the discussion of control and instability of the system. Therefore, the control of these systems, taking into account the considerations of the operator, is of great importance. The aim of this research is to design a stabilizing controller for the tractor-trailer robot in the presence of uncertainties and considering the limitations of operator saturation. In order to track the time path, the controller is presented in two kinematic and dynamic stages. The focus of this research is on the application of operator restrictions in dynamic controllers, and two control approaches are presented for that. Dynamic modeling of the robot is done using Lagrange’s equations. At first, in order to use the anti-jackknife control of the nonlinear tractor-trailer system, it is estimated by identifying the system with a linear and uncertain system. This article investigates the use of neural networks to solve kinematic problems in an omnidirectional mobile robot. The neural network is trained to learn the speed of desired angles of the robot tires, corresponding to different routes. The results show that the neural network can control the robot’s movement without dynamic and kinematic knowledge. In the next section, a neural network is used as compensation for the malfunction of the operators in a feedback linear controller in order to prevent the saturation of the operators. The weights of the neural network are updated in such a way that the stability of the system is guaranteed using the Lyapunov candidate. This article investigates the use of neural networks to solve kinematic problems in an omnidirectional mobile robot. The neural network is trained to learn the speed of desired angles of the robot tires, corresponding to different routes. The results show that the neural network can control the robot’s movement without dynamic and kinematic knowledge. Also, a comparison has been made to validate the method used in Adams and MATLAB software and the simulation conditions of the proposed method with a reference article. The simulation results show the efficiency of the designed controllers. According to the investigations carried out, it can be seen from the angular and planar error of the robot that the neural network method has a better performance than the comparative methods with an approximation between 10% and 15% and the anti-jackknife method also because of the reference method and also The anti-jack knife shows between 13% and 16% due to the complexity of the angular movement of the steering wheel and the rotation and connections of the trailer to the tractor.
Numerical study of the process parameters affecting the feature size of a microfiber fabricated by microfluidic-based bioprinting
Authors: Hemasian Etefagh Ardeshir , Razfar Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2024

Microfiber is a significant tubular structure due to its desirable properties, such as a large surface area and near-vessel shape. However, the fabrication of solid and hollow microfibers may face challenges with additive manufacturing (AM). 3D bioprinting is an AM technique with significant challenges, such as difficulty in high-precision printing of precise microfibers. Additionally, due to the unique advantages of microfluidic systems, such as flow control, laminar regime, and biocompatibility, these devices have great potential to integrate with 3D bioprinting. Therefore, enhancing AM methods with microfluidic technology is a prominent approach to fabricating heterogeneous microfibers. Several process parameters affect the geometry of microfibers produced by microfluidic-based printing platforms. Therefore, this study has focused on the numerical analysis of channel geometry, bioink properties, and process parameters on the microfibers’ feature size. In this regard, the results of the developed numerical model have been verified with experimental data. There is 85% agreement between the numerical model results and experimental data. These errors are attributed to the sheath fluid and sample fluid effects. Besides, a mathematical model was developed to predict the solid and hollow microfiber feature size. Altering the sample and sheath inlet velocity resulted in a range of solid microfiber diameters between 45 and 108 µm. The OD values have an error margin of up to 15%, while the ID error values have an error margin of up to 14%. The results of this study can be employed to optimize the channel geometry, bioink properties, and process parameters to achieve the desired functionally graded microfibers.
Overloading effect on the osmo-viscoelastic and recovery behavior of the intervertebral disc
Authors: Feki Faten , Taktak Rym , Haddar Nader , Moulart Melissa , Zaïri Fahmi , Zaïri Fahed
Published: March 2024

In vitro studies investigating the effect of high physiological compressive loads on the intervertebral disc mechanics as well as on its recovery are rare. Moreover, the osmolarity effect on the disc viscoelastic behavior following an overloading is far from being studied. This study aims to determine whether a compressive loading-unloading cycle exceeding physiological limits could be detrimental to the cervical disc, and to examine the chemo-mechanical dependence of this overloading effect. Cervical functional spine units were subjected to a compressive loading-unloading cycle at a high physiological level (displacement of 2.5 mm). The overloading effect on the disc viscoelastic behavior was evaluated through two relaxation tests conducted before and after cyclic loading. Afterward, the disc was unloaded in a saline bath during a rest period, and its recovery response was assessed by a third relaxation test. The chemo-mechanical coupling in the disc response was further examined by repeating this protocol with three different saline concentrations in the external fluid bath. It was found that overloading significantly alters the disc viscoelastic response, with changes statistically dependent on osmolarity conditions. The applied hyper-physiological compressive cycle does not cause damage since the disc recovers its original viscoelastic behavior following a rest period. Osmotic loading only influences the loading-unloading response; specifically, increasing fluid osmolarity leads to a decrease in disc relaxation after the applied cycle. However, the disc recovery is not impacted by the osmolarity of the external fluid.
Can Invalid Information Be Ignored When It Is Detected?
Authors: Ramsey Adam T. , Liu Yanjun , Trueblood Jennifer S.
Published: March 2024

With the rapid spread of information via social media, individuals are prone to misinformation exposure that they may utilize when forming beliefs. Over five experiments (total N = 815 adults, recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk in the United States), we investigated whether people could ignore quantitative information when they judged for themselves that it was misreported. Participants recruited online viewed sets of values sampled from Gaussian distributions to estimate the underlying means. They attempted to ignore invalid information, which were outlier values inserted into the value sequences. Results indicated participants were able to detect outliers. Nevertheless, participants’ estimates were still biased in the direction of the outlier, even when they were most certain that they detected invalid information. The addition of visual warning cues and different task scenarios did not fully eliminate systematic over- and underestimation. These findings suggest that individuals may incorporate invalid information they meant to ignore when forming beliefs.
SARS CoV-2 Antibodies in Cord Blood of Neonates Delivered to Pregnant Mothers Vaccinated for COVID-19
Authors: Tank Priyanka , Chawla Suraj , Tank Rakesh , Dhingra Arti , Sangwan Jyoti
Published: March 2024

Background

The recent novel coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2]) pandemic has been responsible for millions of deaths globally. Several vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus have been developed.

Objective

To estimate the proportion of newborns who acquire IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from mothers vaccinated against COVID-19.

Methods

Eligible study subjects seeking care in the Obstetrics & Gynecology department for delivery were recruited in this cross-sectional analytic study. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the study subjects were noted and around 3–5 mL venous blood was collected from each study participant duo (mother and newborn) to detect IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV2 “S” protein.

Results

Over the entire study period, 125 pregnant ladies who were vaccinated with two doses of any COVID-19 vaccine were included in the study. A sizeable proportion (44.0%) of vaccinated pregnant women were seropositive for IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV2 “S” protein. A significantly high number of seropositive newborns (82.8%) were delivered to seropositive mothers as compared to seronegative mothers (OR 41.1; 95% confidence interval 14.6–116.1, p < .0001).

Conclusions

The present study reveals that a substantial proportion of newborns acquired SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from their vaccinated seropositive mothers through transplacental transfer.
Experience of Transitional Care Among Thai-Isan Older Stroke Survivors and Their Family Caregivers
Authors: Thiengtham Supavadee , Chiang-Hanisko Lenny , D'Avolio Deborah , Sritanyarat Wanapa
Published: March 2024

The transitional care model for people who have suffered brain injuries is a relatively recent addition to the Thai healthcare system. The aim of this study was to explore experience of Thai Isan older stroke survivors and their family caregivers across different points of transition from hospital to home. Fifteen dyads of older stroke survivors and their family caregivers were recruited following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected through participant observations and semi-structured interviews. Forty-seven participation observation field notes and twenty-four interview transcriptions were analyzed using the Four Phases of the Data Analysis Enabler and the Leininger–Templin–Thompson Ethnoscript Coding Enabler. Three themes emerged: I feel lost with managing care at home; it has been challenging for our family to maintain continuity of care; and it is a matter of who fits in and is convenient for family care responsibilities. The findings of this study have highlighted the dispersion of care among Thai-Isan people during the patient’s transition to home. Therefore, a transitional care plan should be developed that specifies who is responsible for monitoring and supporting patients and families throughout this period.
The Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory: Psychometric Properties and Symptom Comparisons in Women With and Without Brain Injuries Due to Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Karr Justin E. , White Agnes E. , Leong Sharon E. , Logan T K
Published: March 2024

This study psychometrically evaluated the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI) among women survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and compared symptoms between women with no brain injury history ( n = 93) and women with IPV-related brain injury history ( n = 112). Women completed the NSI and questionnaires on traumatic brain injury (TBI), hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HI-BI), and lifetime IPV history. A four-factor NSI model, including affective, somatosensory, cognitive, and vestibular factors, had the best fit (comparative fit index = 0.970, root mean square error of approximation = 0.064), with strong reliability for the total score ( ω = .93) and subscale scores ( ω range = .72–.89). In group comparisons, women with IPV-related brain injuries reported greater total, affective, and cognitive symptom severity after adjusting for age and education; however, no group differences were observed after adjusting for IPV severity. When examining lifetime number of brain injuries, HI-BI count was independently predictive of total, cognitive, and vestibular symptom severity after adjusting for age, education, and IPV severity; whereas TBI count did not independently predict any NSI scores after adjusting for these covariates. The NSI had acceptable psychometric properties for measuring neurobehavioral symptoms among women survivors of IPV. The association between HI-BI count and cognitive and vestibular symptoms may indicate the importance of studying repetitive nonfatal strangulation as an injury mechanism in this population.
Effective Identification Through Multiple Criteria
Authors: Makel Matthew C. , Peters Scott J. , Lee Lindsay Ellis , Stambaugh Tamra , McBee Matthew T. , McCoach D. Betsy , Johnson Kiana R.
Published: March 2024

Finding all the “gifted” students who would benefit from a gifted and talented service is a perpetual concern. In this article, we focus on how to effectively implement multiple criteria in identification. First, we provide some broad background before introducing three different ways to combine multiple data points (AND, OR, and MEAN) when identifying students for gifted services. Next, we discuss how effective use of combining multiple criteria—including using two-phase identification systems—contributes to schools saving time and money while also better identifying students. To do this, we use newly introduced criteria for evaluating gifted and talented identification systems. Finally, we provide several keys for success that can help schools accomplish their identification goals effectively.
An investigation into vibration transmission patterns within metro turnout areas utilizing the structural sound intensity method
Authors: Wang Liuchong , Su Hongbo , Zou Dong , Tang Minghui , Zhou Hanxiao , Zhao Caiyou , Wang Ping
Published: March 2024

Urban rail transit turnout areas are notorious for inducing elevated environmental vibrations due to the complex interactions between wheels, rails, and supporting infrastructure. This paper establishes a comprehensive vehicle-track-tunnel-soil coupled dynamic model of a train traversing a turnout region. The intricate vibration transmission mechanisms within the turnout are explored through numerical simulation and visualization of vibration energy flow pathways. The structural sound intensity method facilitates the directional characterization of both transverse and longitudinal elastic waves emanating from the wheel-rail contact zone. Results reveal distinct propagation patterns between the switch panel and crossing panel, with more pronounced low-frequency energy backflow occurring in the switch panel. The transverse wave is found to dominate the elevated lateral vibrations observed along the tunnel walls. Frequency domain analysis maps the variation in energy flow directionality across one-third octave bands. The findings align closely with field measurement outcomes, validating the capacity of the approach to identify vibration "hot spots." Overall, this research enhances the theoretical comprehension of the complex interplay between diverse factors influencing turnout vibration transmission dynamics. The visualization technique proves instrumental in elucidating the critical mechanisms underlying the exacerbated environmental impact within these structurally intricate domains. Practical insights are distilled regarding turnout design strategies, vibration monitoring, and control methodologies to facilitate the mitigation of detrimental vibration effects.
Reclaiming Logic Modeling for Evaluation: A Theory of Action Framework
Authors: Woodland Rebecca H. , Mazur Rebecca
Published: March 2024

Logic modeling, the process that explicates how programs are constructed and theorized to bring about change, is considered to be standard evaluation practice. However, logic modeling is often experienced as a transactional, jargon-laden, discrete task undertaken to produce a document to comply with the expectations of an external entity, the consequences of which have minimal or even negative influence on the quality of program evaluation. This article presents the Logic Modeling Theory of Action Framework (LMTAF) which elucidates needs, resources, and central activities of logic modeling, and describes its potential evaluation-related benefits. The LMTAF situates evaluators as the primary intended users of logic modeling, and logic modeling as a fundamental element of each stage of a program evaluation life cycle. We aim to reassert the value of logic modeling for evaluation and provide evaluation practitioners a useful touchstone for reflective practice and future action.
Usefulness of Schirmer's tear strips and borosilicate glass tubes in chemical analysis of human tear fluid: A practical check in VEGF detection
Authors: Pieczyński Janusz , Kiewisz Jolanta
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Human tears contain a number of agents which may play an important role in diagnosing local eye disorders as well as systemic diseases. The small amount of fluid obtained during the collection and the consequent difficulty in analysing it are the main problems encountered in the diagnostic process.

Aim

We decided to investigate the practical usefulness of two simple methods of collecting tear fluid for chemical analysis, i.e., glass tubes and Schirmer's strips. The substance analyzed was vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a compound commonly recognized in ophthalmology.

Methods

We used standard Schirmer's tear test and calibrated glass tubes for tear fluid collection in healthy volunteers. The standard ELISA assay was used to check the effectiveness of the tear sampling by estimating the VEGF level.

Results

The results of the study show that Schirmer's tear strip test is a more effective tool of the two. Moreover, using Schirmer's strips to obtain tear fluid was found to be more patient friendly and amounts of the tear fluid collected with that test were enough and better for the VEGF detection.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that the widely used Schirmer tear test may be the best method of tear collection for chemical analysis. However, further studies on test calibration are needed.