bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refueling Station Location Model to Support Evacuation of Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Authors: Purba Denissa Sari Darmawi , Balisi Simon , Kontou Eleftheria
Published: June 2023

Alternative fuel vehicles may pose challenges to evacuation planning because of their short driving range and the sparse refueling infrastructure existing on transportation networks. Deployment and strategic siting of emergency refueling stations are needed to support the evacuation of alternative fuel vehicles to reach a shelter. This study proposes a location-routing problem with hop constraints that optimize the placement of emergency refueling stations of each alternative fuel type to support evacuation routing. We develop a Benders-inspired decomposition method with a transformed network to solve the location problem and a matheuristic branch-and-price method to design evacuation routes that minimize travel and refueling time and satisfy the hop constraints of each vehicle type. Our numerical experiments, focusing on the South Florida network, uncover the impacts of alternative fuel vehicle specifications and vehicle heterogeneity on the deployment plan.
International Roughness Index Prediction for Jointed Plain Concrete Pavements Using Regression and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Suliman Amany M. , Awed Ahmed M. , Abd El-Hakim Ragaa T. , El-Badawy Sherif M.
Published: June 2023

Rigid pavements are recently gaining vast interest for their durability and large traffic volume endurance. This raises the need for a robust method to predict their long-term performance to support decisions on their future maintenance and rehabilitation requirements. One of the most descriptive parameters of pavement ride quality is the International Roughness Index (IRI). IRI can be used as a performance indicator for the level of serviceability of rigid pavement. This study presents the evaluation of 21 variables covering climate, traffic, and structural parameters in predicting IRI for jointed plain concrete pavement (JPCP) sections using 1,414 data points acquired from the Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) database. It was found that only 10 variables are significant in the IRI prediction for JPCP. Moreover, four modeling techniques were applied, namely, linear regression, multivariate adaptive regression splines, Gaussian process regression, and artificial neural network. It was found that a deep ANN model with a structure of one input layer, three hidden layers, and one output layer [10-36-18-9-1] gives the highest IRI prediction accuracy with root mean square error and coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.117 and 0.92, respectively. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of each input variable on the accuracy of IRI prediction for JPCP sections, and it was found that the most influential variables are initial IRI, pavement age, mean and standard deviation of humidity, standard deviation of evaporation, mean and standard deviation of freezing index, pavement compressive strength, ratio between pavement and base layers thickness, and finally an estimated parameter called site factor which is a function of (age, freezing index and soil percentage passing sieve no. 200).
Active Aging Policies Targeting Health and Care During the of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Thematic Analysis of Italian National and Regional Policies
Authors: Barbabella Francesco , Principi Andrea , Lucantoni Davide , Lamura Giovanni , Socci Marco
Published: June 2023

A primary objective of active aging policies is to promote health and optimize care for individuals. In aging societies, the maintenance of good physical and mental health and the management of risk factors are of utmost importance. Few research studies have analyzed active aging policies related to health and care from a multi-level governance perspective. The aim of this study was to determine what national and regional policies in these domains existed in Italy. We conducted an inductive thematic analysis of health- and care-related policies on active aging, selected through a systematic review in 2019–2021. The analysis uncovered three themes at both the national and regional levels (health promotion and disease prevention, health monitoring, and informal caregivers) and two additional themes at the regional level (access to health and social care services, and mental health and well-being). According to the findings, COVID-19 partially influenced the evolution of active aging policies.
Synergistic effect of nano silicon and piperazine pyrophosphate/melamine polyphosphate on flame retardancy of polypropylene
Authors: Fan Chenran , Wei Lijuan , Zhao Shicheng
Published: June 2023

To improve the flame retardant efficiency of intumescent flame retardants, some nano-scale additives as synergists were always added. In this work, nano silicon and piperazine pyrophosphate/melamine polyphosphate into polypropylene was investigated, which was obviously efficient to improve thermal stability and flame retardancy. The optimal synergistic ratio corresponded to 1 wt% SiO2, 10 wt% piperazine pyrophosphate, and 5 wt% melamine polyphosphate. The system passed the UL-94 V-1 classification and had a limiting oxygen index value of 34.5%. It exhibited a decrease on peak heat release rate and peak smoke production rate by 81% and 80%, respectively. Based on characterizations of scanning electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the synergistic mechanism was investigated. A reactive cross-linking network between SiO2 and piperazine pyrophosphate/melamine polyphosphate during burning was formed to enhance the structure of carbon protective layer. Nano silicon acted as a foaming nucleating agent to promote the formation of porous dense carbon layer in intumescent flame retardants during burning. The synergistic strategy of SiO2 and piperazine pyrophosphate/melamine polyphosphate provided new compounded system for the design of polymeric materials with excellent flame retardancy, great thermal stability, and low release of heat and smoke.
The Effect of Territorial Stigma on Urban Crime: A Neighborhood Analysis in Seoul, Korea
Authors: Jeong Jindo , Gim Tae-Hyoung Tommy
Published: June 2023

While there has been increasing support for the theory that symbolic inequalities can influence urban crime, empirical evidence has been scarce. We examine how territorial stigma, the territorial accumulation of symbolic inequalities such as perceptions and prejudices, affects neighborhood-level urban crime using residents’ awareness and media reports. The analysis confirms that both indices considered subjective and objective evidence for territorial stigma had a significant relationship with urban crime. We suggest that it is necessary to examine symbolic inequality as one of the causes of urban crime, considering the process of forming the territorial stigma of crime.
Planning Students’ Experiences of Interdisciplinary Near-Peer Research Mentoring
Authors: Wagner Claire , du Toit Jacques
Published: June 2023

This article describes planning students’ experiences of an interdisciplinary near-peer research-mentoring program in the context of experiential learning. A group of final-year undergraduate planning students, who were required to conduct research and write a report, were mentored by master’s degree students in research psychology. Data obtained from independent focus group discussions with two cohorts of students yielded three themes. The merits and demerits of near-peer research mentoring are presented, and planning lecturers’ approach to improving students’ research skills by providing similar (especially interdisciplinary) programs is considered.
Real-time virtual supports improving health equity and access in British Columbia
Authors: Novak Lauscher Helen , Stewart Kurtis , Markham Ray , Pawlovich John , Mah John , Hunt Megan , Williams Kim , Christenson Jim , Graham Scott , Bepple Katrina , Pritchard Erika , Rabeneck Jon , Yang Michelle , Ho Kendall
Published: June 2023

In British Columbia (BC) and across the territories of over 200 First Nations and 39 Métis Nation Chartered communities, the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a group of partner organizations to rapidly establish seven virtual care pathways under the Real-Time Virtual Support (RTVS) network. They aimed to address inequitable access and multiple barriers to healthcare faced by rural, remote, and Indigenous communities, and provide pan-provincial services. Mixed-method evaluation assessed implementation, patient and provider experience, quality improvement, cultural safety, and sustainability. Pathways supported 38,905 patient encounters and offered 29,544 hours of peer-to-peer support from April 2020 to March 2021. Mean monthly encounter growth was 178.0% (standard deviation = 252.1%). Ninety percent of patients were satisfied with the care experience; 94% of providers enjoyed delivering virtual care. Consistent growth suggests that the virtual pathways met the needs of providers and patients in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities, and supported virtual access to care in BC.
Synthesis analysis of the morphologies of convex polygonal tubular origami structures based on Yoshimura origami patterns
Authors: Wei Xianhe , Zhao Yanzhi , Fan Zhengwei , Li Erwei , Han Zhen , Liu Zhixin
Published: June 2023

In this paper, the basic elements of Yoshimura origami patterns are extracted, a discrete splicing construction method to control the circumference of a tubular origami structure based on basic elements is created by summarizing morphological laws, and a construction function and a solution process for the Yoshimura origami pattern tubular structure based on a combination of the basic elements are proposed. A concrete form of the convex polygonal origami structure based on the Yoshimura origami pattern with different numbers of edges is designed by synthesizing the construction function and geometric constraints. This theoretical synthesis approach provides new ideas for the innovative design of origami robots, mechanical metamaterials, and energy-absorbing cushioned structures.
Parachute emergency landing simulation and enhanced composite material characterization for General Aviation aircraft
Authors: Di Mauro Gennaro , Gagliardi Giuseppe Maurizio , Guida Michele , Marulo Francesco
Published: June 2023

General Aviation (GA) aircraft crashworthiness of the vehicle when it hits the ground after the parachute deployment is an important issue. The current dynamic emergency landing regulation (CS 23.562) defines the maximum human tolerant accelerations under both vertical and horizontal directions. This article aims to compare two different aircraft configurations: metal low-wing and composite high-wing ones. Both are two-seats and single-engine GA aircraft. The purpose of the analysis is to check whether the seats and restraint systems met human injury tolerance standards and to determine the possible impact on passengers in the cabin space due to shock loads. Finite element analysis of the fuselage sections for both configurations is performed using the commercial LS-Dyna solver. An extensive campaign of experimental tests has been performed on the composite samples for tuning and validating the model and to find the transition from an undamaged up to totally collapsed sample. The material of the composite fuselage has been characterized through experimental tests. The adopted material model has been refined to match with the performed experimental analysis, allowing high-fidelity modeling. A parametric analysis has been performed to determine the optimal impact angle in terms of lumbar injuries and loads transmitted by the seat belt due to aircraft contact with the ground, thereby increasing the level of safety. The investigations carried out may be an important indicator of the design of the parachute system.
Numerical modelling and vibration serviceability assessment of a steel footbridge with a significant 3D dynamic behaviour
Authors: Roda-Casanova Victor , Hernández-Figueirido David , Sancho Bru Joaquín L. , Martínez-Rodrigo María D.
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses on the vibration serviceability assessment and numerical modelling of an existing steel truss footbridge located in the outskirts of Castellón, Spain. The footbridge is rather slender and composed by a main span and two access ramps supported on three 4-arm piers of different heights. Due to the connection between the main span and the ramps at the top of the tall piers, longitudinal and lateral bending/torsion natural coupled modes of vibration coexist at low frequencies, with a relevant contribution of the piers and access ramps deformation. This leads to a significant three-dimensional and rather complex dynamic response under service conditions. With the aim of characterising the structural dynamic properties and assessing the level of vibrations induced by crossing pedestrians, two in-situ experimental test programmes are conducted. On the one hand, the structural response is measured during several hammer tests and the modal properties are identified and used to update a detailed 3D numerical model by means of a Genetic Algorithm. Due to the lack of information regarding the detailing of the piers foundations, two alternative models are analysed. The relevance of the pier-foundation system rotational stiffness is highlighted for the particular configuration. On the other hand, the footbridge main span response is recorded under different pedestrian activities: walking, running and vandal simulated actions. Finally, the vibration serviceability of the structure is assessed based on current codes and regulations.
Study on transmission angle and singularity in 5R planar mechanism
Authors: Jawale HP , Choudhari RG , Thorat HT
Published: June 2023

Transmission angle is one of the important design criteria to be considered for the effective force and motion transmission of a mechanism. Poor transmission angles are detrimental to the performance of a mechanism as they exaggerate the effect of friction and clearances. In addition, the torque required to overcome external load tends to increase and the required torque capacity of the drive increases unnecessarily. The singularity positions in a workspace are closely related to the transmission angle of the manipulator configuration. For achieving a large singularity-free area, the configuration dimension needs to be increased. Even though the objective is to design a compact five-bar planar mechanism, the link dimensions are likely to increase to some extent while achieving the desired transmission angles. This paper deals with estimating the singularity-free area of a five-bar mechanism by considering variations in transmission angles for different link lengths. The generalized methodology presented in this work demonstrates the estimation of singularity-free largest reachable area and link proportions at which intra-link transmission angles are confined. A dimensionless singularity-free workspace index is proposed to quantify performance at various transmission angles.
Investigation of the effects of MQL and material hardness on energy consumption, vibration, and surface roughness in hard turning of AISI 52100 steel for a sustainable manufacturing
Authors: Şahinoğlu Abidin
Published: June 2023

Turning hardened steels is more advantageous than cylindrical grinding. However, the machinability of hardened steel is difficult. Therefore, in this experimental study, two different AISI52100 steels with 45 and 50 HRC were machined with varying cutting parameters (feed rate: 0.15, 0.25, 0.35 mm/rev; cutting speed: 140, 155, 170 m/minute; depth of cut: 0.08, 0.12, 0.16 mm) under three different cooling conditions (dry, coolant, and MQL). According to the experimental result the lowest surface roughness, vibration, and energy consumption were obtained in cutting with MQL. With increasing feed rate and depth of cut, vibration, power consumption, and surface roughness increased, while energy consumption decreased because the machining time was shortened. With increasing cutting speed, surface roughness, tool vibration, and energy consumption decreased, while instantaneous power consumption and chuck vibration increased. For the lowest energy consumption, surface roughness, vibration, and highest machine tool performance for the ideal cutting condition, high hardness (50 HRC) using MQL, high cutting speed (145 m/minute), low feed rate (0.1 mm/rev), and high depth of cut (0.3 mm) should be preferred. Thus, 3.88% energy consumption, 58.25% surface roughness value, 10.06% chuck vibration value, and 28.80% tool vibration have decreased according to the average cutting conditions.
Energy- and time-optimal reconfiguration of spacecraft clusters with collision avoidance
Authors: Huang Yong , Sun Silang , Chu Jing
Published: June 2023

Spacecraft cluster reconfiguration is one of the enabling technologies to ensure non-traditional attributes of distributed space systems. This work treats energy- and time-optimal reconfiguration problems for both circular and eccentric reference orbits. Furthermore, typical local and coupling constraints have been taken into account. Particularly, focus is given to two coupling constraints: final configuration constraints and collision avoidance constraints. For final configuration constraints, a parameterization method is applied to ensure that the reconfiguration problem can be solved as only one optimization problem, rather than a large number of optimization problems resulting from the traditional discretization method. A generalized formulation is proposed for non-convex collision avoidance constraints, which are then convexified via linearization and convex restriction technology. This method provides the affine approximation as a special case. After incorporating above constraints, the reconfiguration problem is formulated as an open-loop optimal control problem, which is solved via the Gauss pseudospectral method (GPM). By virtue of elegant features of GPM, those solutions can serve as a counterpart and stepping stone for a distributed implementation of reconfiguration algorithms. Various simulations demonstrate that minimum-energy/time cluster reconfiguration problems with collision avoidance for circular and eccentric reference orbits can be solved effectively and efficiently using GPM.
Embodied standpoints in gender difference graphs and tables: When, where, and why are men still prioritized?
Authors: Hegarty Peter , Parr Amy
Published: June 2023

Gender difference graphs and tables typically present data representing males first, ahead of data representing females. The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association in 2010 advised authors against this “bias” when reporting gender differences. An experiment examined how this preference is related to embodied cognition, and two content analytic studies examined its persistence despite the American Psychological Association's (APA) advice against it. In Study 1, 256 students drew bar graphs of gender differences and power differences. Participants spontaneously arrayed men first and higher power groups first most often, even when graph axes were placed to cue the opposite order. These results suggest that males-first order preferences follow from embodied biases to position agentic groups left and higher up in graphs and tables. Two content analyses systematically sampled psychology articles in four journals over a decade (Study 2) or 70 journals in a recent year (Study 3) to examine the impact of the APA manual’s advice on authors. The males-first preference remains prevalent in psychology publications, has reversed in Psychology of Women Quarterly (Study 2), and became polarized by author gender in social psychology (Study 3). These findings suggest that embodied cognition affects the visual representation of gender differences in psychology and is variably moderated by recent injunctions.
Two-stage multivariate Mendelian randomization on multiple outcomes with mixed distributions
Authors: Deng Yangqing , Tu Dongsheng , O'Callaghan Chris J , Liu Geoffrey , Xu Wei
Published: June 2023

In clinical research, it is important to study whether certain clinical factors or exposures have causal effects on clinical and patient-reported outcomes such as toxicities, quality of life, and self-reported symptoms, which can help improve patient care. Usually, such outcomes are recorded as multiple variables with different distributions. Mendelian randomization (MR) is a commonly used technique for causal inference with the help of genetic instrumental variables to deal with observed and unobserved confounders. Nevertheless, the current methodology of MR for multiple outcomes only focuses on one outcome at a time, meaning that it does not consider the correlation structure of multiple outcomes, which may lead to a loss of statistical power. In situations with multiple outcomes of interest, especially when there are mixed correlated outcomes with different distributions, it is much more desirable to jointly analyze them with a multivariate approach. Some multivariate methods have been proposed to model mixed outcomes; however, they do not incorporate instrumental variables and cannot handle unmeasured confounders. To overcome the above challenges, we propose a two-stage multivariate Mendelian randomization method (MRMO) that can perform multivariate analysis of mixed outcomes using genetic instrumental variables. We demonstrate that our proposed MRMO algorithm can gain power over the existing univariate MR method through simulation studies and a clinical application on a randomized Phase III clinical trial study on colorectal cancer patients.
Negative controls: Concepts and caveats
Authors: Penning de Vries Bas BL , Groenwold Rolf HH
Published: June 2023

Unmeasured confounding is a well-known obstacle in causal inference. In recent years, negative controls have received increasing attention as a important tool to address concerns about the problem. The literature on the topic has expanded rapidly and several authors have advocated the more routine use of negative controls in epidemiological practice. In this article, we review concepts and methodologies based on negative controls for detection and correction of unmeasured confounding bias. We argue that negative controls may lack both specificity and sensitivity to detect unmeasured confounding and that proving the null hypothesis of a null negative control association is impossible. We focus our discussion on the control outcome calibration approach, the difference-in-difference approach, and the double-negative control approach as methods for confounding correction. For each of these methods, we highlight their assumptions and illustrate the potential impact of violations thereof. Given the potentially large impact of assumption violations, it may sometimes be desirable to replace strong conditions for exact identification with weaker, easily verifiable conditions, even when these imply at most partial identification of unmeasured confounding. Future research in this area may broaden the applicability of negative controls and in turn make them better suited for routine use in epidemiological practice. At present, however, the applicability of negative controls should be carefully judged on a case-by-case basis.
Electroacupuncture improves cardiac function after myocardial infarction by regulating the mobilization and migration of endogenous stem cells
Authors: Xuan Shou-Song , Zhao Yue , Zheng Yan , Zhu Jing , Li Han , Lu Ping-Ping , Shao Shui-Jin , Guo Hai-Dong , Mou Fang-Fang
Published: June 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study was to explore the role and mechanisms of electroacupuncture (EA) in the regulation of chemokines in endogenous stem cell mobilization and myocardial regeneration after myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods:

An MI model was constructed in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. After 4 weeks of treatment, echocardiography was used to detect changes in cardiac function, and Masson’s trichrome staining was used to detect collagen deposition. In addition, immunofluorescence staining was applied to examine von Willebrand factor (vWF)-positive vessels, the expression of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and proliferation marker Ki67, and the number of c-kit-positive, C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4)-positive, and Sca-1-positive endogenous stem cells in the infarcted area. In addition, the expression of stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1 and stem cell factor (SCF) was detected.

Results:

EA increased the ejection fraction after MI, reduced collagen deposition and cellular apoptosis, and increased the number of blood vessels compared with an untreated model group. EA significantly promoted cellular proliferation, except for myocardial cells, and significantly increased the number of c-kit-, CXCR4- and Sca-1-positive stem cells. Moreover, the expression of SDF-1 and SCF in myocardial tissue in the EA group was significantly higher than that in the (untreated) MI group.

Conclusions:

EA appears to promote angiogenesis and reduce collagen deposition, thus improving the cardiac function of rats with MI. The underlying mechanism of action may involve endogenous stem cell mobilization mediated by SDF-1/CXCR4 and SCF/c-kit.
Tuning to Place: Using Photos to Better Understand Problems in Technical Communication Classes
Authors: Brock Carlson Erin , Overmyer Trinity
Published: June 2023

This article highlights the role of place in understanding problems, specifically within community-engaged projects in upper-level technical and professional communication courses. Drawing on a year-long participant-generated imagery study with students, instructors, and community partners, the authors argue that photographic research is effective in helping participants and researchers tune to place. Taking photos offers opportunities for documentation, individual interpretation, and collaborative reflection, resulting in a deeper, more nuanced sense of place. Ultimately, this article demonstrates how a greater awareness of place, cultivated through reflecting on visual evidence, enhances engagement projects and helps technical communicators address complex problems.
Anticipating Identity Management Decision-Making Process: The Case of Hijab Disclosure to Managers Through the Study of Time and Space
Authors: Chenigle Sarra , Grima François , Prud’homme Lionel
Published: June 2023

This article explores how time and space influence the decision-making process (DMP) that hijabis (Muslim women who wear a headscarf or hijab) undergo when deciding whether to disclose their hijab to their manager. Drawing on 40 interviews with hijabis, whose identity is a source of significant stigmatization and discrimination in France, we show that, rather than being constrained by time and space, hijabis take advantage of these elements to foster their own agency. Three contributions to the literature emerge from our findings. First, the decision-making process can be broken down into three phases: conceptualization, planning, and actualization. Over the course of these three phases, specific steps are taken depending on whether or not hijabis wish to include their manager in their DMP. This is how hijabis take control of their disclosure decision, which must take the manager’s reaction into account. Second, we demonstrate that hijabis focus on the temporal dimension when selecting the most appropriate point at which to share their decision. For the spatial dimension, we introduce the concept of transition space to convey the way hijabis construct a secure environment in which to make their decision. This space has four key characteristics: It is secluded and offers protection, it is flexible, it is essential, and it is a space of psychological distress. Finally, we show that identity management (IM) decisions incur material costs.
Users’ Willingness to Ride an Intercity Passenger Rail: A Case Study From Louisiana
Authors: Tian Guang , Tolford Tara
Published: June 2023

Intercity passenger rail services must be designed in a way that users will be willing and able to ride. This study examines potential users’ current travel behaviors and willingness to ride a proposed passenger rail between New Orleans and Baton Rouge in Louisiana, US. By analyzing a user preference survey with discrete choice experiment (DCE), the results show a strong support of the proposed rail service, but distinct deficiencies in the current multimodal transportation environment connecting to and from proposed stations. In addition, previous analyses include potentially faulty assumptions about trip purposes, which have critical implications for service design. The findings of this study reflect the priorities of likely rail passengers and advance efforts to plan for successful passenger rail service operation in Southeast Louisiana. The potential user-based and data-driven approach of this case study can also be used for planning other passenger rail services in the US.
Vascular access hands-on training for young nephrologists: The fellows’ experience of the N-PATH project REVAC module
Authors: Barba Teba Raquel , López Arsuaga Lide , Firket Louis , Ferreira Filipa , Moest Wouter , Stoneman Sinead , Georgopoulou Georgia Andriana , Bratsiakou Adamantia , Gallieni Maurizio
Published: June 2023

Chronic kidney disease is a major public health problem, as population studies record a prevalence of 7.2% in individuals over 30 years and is expected to increase in the future. Many of them will end up undergoing hemodialysis treatment, and vascular access is not only an essential requirement for the technique, but also a determining factor in their prognosis; for all these reasons, every nephrologist should have both theoretical and practical knowledge of vascular access; however, the practical training is generally uneven and dependent on the hospital in which you train. It is within this context that the N-PATH (Nephrology Partnership for Advancing Technology in Healthcare) program was born with the objective of training 40 young European nephrologists in theoretical and practical aspects of Interventional Nephrology. To fulfill its mission, the 2-year program is composed of four modules of 6 months each including theoretical courses and hands-on training: Renal Expert in Molecular Pathology (REMAP), Renal Expert in Vascular Access (REVAC), Renal Expert in Medical Ultrasound (REMUS), and Renal Expert in Peritoneal Dialysis (REPED). By bringing together young nephrologists from all over Europe, the goal is also to create a strong network and promote Nephrology career at the European level. This publication highlights the experience of fellows who attended the REVAC hands-on training in Milan, focused on simulation and virtual reality for vascular access, and its impact on their nephrology training.
Treatment of arteriovenous access pseudoaneurysms using ultrasound guided balloon assisted thrombin injection: Two cases and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Tsouknidas Ioannis , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Tassiopoulos Apostolos , Koullias George
Published: June 2023

Background:

Arteriovenous fistula pseudoaneurysm (AVF-PSA) is a common complication, usually caused during dialysis cannulation, which traditionally has been treated with open and less frequently endovascular techniques. Thrombin injection, although established in the treatment of arterial pseudoaneurysms, has barely been used in the treatment of AVF-PSA, due to concerns for AVF thrombosis or proximal embolization.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed and Cochrane Central databases were reviewed and all clinical reports on AVF-PSA balloon assisted percutaneous thrombin injection through July 2022 were included. The electronic search yielded five case reports. Due to between-study differences and small sample size, the findings were summarized from each report, but the results were not pooled. Additionally, we present our own experience on two patients with AVF-PSA that were treated with balloon assisted percutaneous thrombin injection

Results:

A total of five case reports (no of patients: 7, including ours) were included for review. Most of the patients were male ( n = 6) and the mean age was 65.9 years. The average size of the PSA was 1.6 cm. In all cases a balloon was inflated to prevent thrombin and thrombotic material intrusion into the fistula lumen, prior to thrombin injection. In one patient n-butyl cyanoacrylate and Lipiodol were used, due to thrombin non availability. Recurrence was reported in only one patient, and average follow-up is 16 months.

Conclusions:

Thrombin injection with concomitant balloon inflation seems to be a safe and effective treatment for arteriovenous fistula pseudoaneurysms. Future studies should be aimed at evaluating the long-term outcomes of such minimally invasive techniques.
Cannabis Unveiled: An Exploration of Marijuana’s History, Active Compounds, Effects, Benefits, and Risks on Human Health
Authors: Hasan Khaled M
Published: June 2023

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive drug that comes from the Cannabis plant. Marijuana can be smoked, vaporized, or consumed through edibles in a variety of ways. Perception changes, changes in mood, and problems with coordination are all possible side effects. Marijuana is used for both recreational and medical purposes to treat a variety of health conditions. The literature review on the effects of marijuana on the human body has increased in recent years as more states legalize its use. It is important to investigate the benefits and harmful effects of marijuana on individuals due to the widespread use of cannabis-derived substances like marijuana for medical, recreational, and combined purposes. The paper will review different aspects of marijuana in 4 main domains. A thorough discussion of marijuana’s definition, history, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and effects on human cells will be given in the first domain. The second domain will concentrate on marijuana’s negative effects, while the third domain will look at marijuana’s possible positive impacts, such as its usage in controlling multiple sclerosis, treating obesity, lowering social anxiety, and managing pain. The fourth domain will concentrate on marijuana’s effects on anxiety, educational attainment, and social consequences. Additionally, this paper also will provide a highlight of the history of marijuana use and governmental legislation, both of which play a significant role in determining how the public views marijuana. In conclusion, this paper provides a comprehensive review of marijuana’s effects, which may be of interest to a large readership. This review adds to the continuing discussion about the use of marijuana by analyzing the data that is currently available about the possible advantages and disadvantages of marijuana usage.
The Association of Sanitation and Hygiene Practices With Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Under-14 Children in Rural Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia: A Community Based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gebru Heroda , Deyissia Negussie , Medhin Girmay , Kloos Helmut
Published: June 2023

Background:

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are neglected tropical diseases. Sanitation and hygiene are vital components for achieving sustainable control of intestinal parasitic infections. Children are the most vulnerable to intestinal parasitic infections because of their immature immune systems and frequent exposure to unsanitary environments. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of IPIs and associated risk factors, including sanitation and hygiene practices, among under-14-year-old children in rural Dire Dawa, eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

This community-based cross-sectional ’study included 778 subjects aged 1 to 14 years. Data were collected using questionnaires and stool examinations. The direct wet-mount method and formol-ether concentration techniques were performed to identify IPIs. Data Analysis: A descriptive statistic was used to show the prevalence of IPIs. Bi-variable and multivariable analysis using the logistic regression model was carried out.

Results:

The outputs are presented using an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The prevalence of 5 intestinal parasites was 33.7% (95% CI = 30.4%-37%). Giardia intestinalis (15.2%) and Hymenolepis nana (11.6%) had the highest prevalence. The odds of IPIs among children of illiterate mothers were 13.1 times higher when compared with children of mothers with secondary education (aOR = 13.1, P = .02), and the odds of IPIs among children from households that have unclean latrines were 1.8 times higher when compared with children from households that have clean latrines. (aOR = 1.8, P = .03). Children from households that discard solid waste in open fields had 1.7 times higher odds of having a positive result than children from households that burn their waste (aOR = 1.7, P = .03). However, children without a swimming habit (aOR = 0.4, P = .000) and asymptomatic children (aOR = 0.3, P = .000) were protective against IPIs.

Conclusions:

IPIs continue to be a public health problem in rural parts of Dire Dawa. The prevalence of Giardia intestinalis and H. nana could be of public health importance in this setting. Solid waste management, latrine cleanliness, mothers’ level of education, and child swimming habits in unclean accumulated water were significantly associated with IPIs. Therefore, efforts should be made to ensure intervention, considering such risks.
Almost South–South solidarity: The frustration of K-pop fans (but not true fans) in South Africa
Authors: Kim Suweon
Published: June 2023

This article illuminates the contours of digitalization in a less studied light of emotion. Based primarily on interviews of South African audiences consuming Korean digital creative contents, the research illustrates their affective responses, such as empathy and collective pride but also frustration. A particular focus goes to highly educated audiences characterized by the #RhodesMustFall movement in South Africa. Grounded in a theoretical framework which combines notions of distinction in cultural sociology and South–South solidarity in international relations, this study explains how K-pop fans in South Africa become holders of highbrow empathy trapped in the loop between digital connection and physical marginalization. In the hollow loop, South African audiences are distinctively invited to become fans yet prevented from advancing their own modes of cultural appropriation. While the international visibility of Korean creative contents may bring collective pride to fans in South Africa, they struggle to find their place in return.
Characteristics of orthognathic multidisciplinary team clinics in England. Part 1: A questionnaire survey
Authors: Brannen Sasha , Rolland Sarah , Cala Anna , Vernazza Christopher R , Paul Ninu
Published: June 2023

Background:

Orthognathic clinics across England are currently run in a multidisciplinary team (MDT) format. It is, however, likely that there is a large variation in the style of these clinics and care pathways for orthognathic patients across the country. This was a cross-sectional, online questionnaire with a primary aim to obtain information on the way orthognathic care is currently delivered throughout England. The secondary objectives were to determine the compliance to the minimum dataset for record collection. The questionnaire, disseminated to orthodontic consultants, detailed 27 items split into waiting lists for new patients, mechanics of the clinic, support for patients and record collection.

Results:

A total of 36 participants responded (one was excluded) to give a total of 35 questionnaire responses. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Of the participants, 34% followed up their patients as per the commissioning guidelines at 1, 2 and 5 years after treatment. Of the participants, 20% said patients’ mental health would be screened before adding them to a waiting list, with 26% of participants stating screening was not undertaken for all patients. Of the participants, 11% had available access to psychological support during the MDT meeting and 20% recorded the minimum dataset at the follow-up intervals.

Conclusion:

There are inconsistencies in the orthognathic MDT design across England. Acceptance criteria, support services available and records collected for patients showed substantial variation, highlighting the limited guidance offered by the commissioning guidelines and the potential need to revise the minimum dataset.
Social protection systems and gender: A review of the evidence
Authors: Cookson Tara Patricia , Ebner Nina , Amron Yardain , Kukreja Kritika
Published: June 2023

The negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have motivated an unprecedented level of global advocacy for gender-responsive and gender-transformative social protection systems that buffer individuals from shocks and vulnerabilities. This turn to a systems approach reflects growing recognition that the presence of one or two social protection programmes targeting women does not guarantee that they are protected throughout the course of their lives and over a wide range of contingencies. Relative to the high levels of interest, however, very little empirical evidence exists about what a gender-responsive or transformative social protection system entails in practice. This article departs from existing literature that focuses on the design and impact of discreet social protection instruments, to present a ‘state of the evidence’ on gender and social protection systems. Drawing on the results of a phased scoping review of academic and policy literature spanning various fields, the article charts the defining features of the existing evidence base, summarizes what is known and identifies pathways for future research. In addition to scholarly analysis, the article offers a comprehensive view of the evidence for policymakers, practitioners, movement leaders and funders working on policy problems from a gender perspective.
Enabling off-highway diesel engine downsizing and performance improvement using electrically assisted turbocharging
Authors: Mazanec Jacob M , Vang Nicholas S , Kokjohn Sage L
Published: June 2023

Internal combustion engine (ICE) downsizing through various turbocharging configurations is generally known by the powertrain design community as an effective means to reduce frictional losses, increase waste heat recovery, and improve fuel efficiency while increasing engine power density. However, often is the case that turbocharging strategies, including variable geometry turbochargers, and regulated two-stage turbochargers, incur the performance tradeoff between transient response and fuel economy (pumping losses) at high engine speeds. For off-highway vehicles having particularly transient and high-powered duty cycles, efforts to improve this tradeoff and increase operational flexibility have turned to evaluating various electrified air system architectures. In this study, a 4.5 L diesel-ICE configured with an electrically driven compressor (eBooster®) is placed in series with a conventional turbocharger and integrated into a 48 V mild-hybrid powertrain architecture. The objective of this powertrain configuration is to enable engine downsizing by 34%, replacing the current 6.8 L ICE platform with the hybridized 4.5 L ICE concept. The commercial 1-D simulation software GT-SUITE is used for powertrain system development and system optimization. Development and validation of the GT-SUITE model and air system controls is concurrently supported through experimental data collection. The simulation model development includes using machine learning methods for optimizing exhaust gas dilution, injection timing, and eBooster® power to improve steady-state and transient brake-specific fuel consumption while minimizing criteria pollutant emissions. It was found that total specific fluid consumption over the standardized non-road transient engine duty cycle could be reduced by 18% over the current 6.8 L engine by using an optimized eBoosted 4.5 L engine. The hybridized 4.5 L engine concept concurrently showed sufficient transient response capability and nearly an order of magnitude reduction in duty cycle total soot production.
The effect of intake port shape on in-cylinder flow field and turbulence distribution in a high-tumble production engine with endoscope accesses
Authors: Kim Dongchan , Rao Lingzhe , Kook Sanghoon , Lee Seung Woo , Baek Hong-kil
Published: June 2023

Three cylinder heads with varied intake port shapes are experimentally investigated to evaluate intake flow structures and their influence on near top dead centre (TDC) flow fields and turbulence distributions in a motored high-tumble engine. The endoscopic high-speed particle image velocimetry (eHS-PIV) is implemented in multi-cylinder engines with two laser endoscopes and a camera endoscope installed in the cylinder head. For a range of engine load and speed conditions, particle seeded and laser illuminated high-speed movies are recorded for 100 cycles with which ensemble-averaged flow fields and spatial-filtered high-frequency flow magnitude distributions are analysed. The results show that a straighter intake port producing a more lateral flow direction results in a larger swinging arc, which is related to enhanced flow later in the compression stroke. The tumble vortex shows an asymmetric structure; the flow field during the compression stroke exhibits higher magnitude vectors at the leading head. This surging flow head becomes stronger with a straighter intake port, which leads to enhanced tumble vortex formation near TDC. As it becomes very strong, the flow vectors originally directed towards the exhaust valves bounce back towards the intake valves, causing a very complex flow structure involving multiple flow components. The result is enhanced turbulence throughout the late compression stroke including the spark timing. However, the impact of the straighter intake port shape on TDC turbulence becomes less significant at lower engine load and speed conditions as the lower intake air momentum limits the enhancement.
Endovascular Solutions for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Fenestrated, Branched and Custom-Made Devices
Authors: Cox Kofi , Yip Ho Cheung Anthony , Geragotellis Alexander , Al-Tawil Mohammed , Jubouri Matti , Williams Ian M. , Bashir Mohamad
Published: June 2023

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) has a prevalence of 4.8%. AAA rupture is associated with significant mortality, thus surgical intervention is generally required once the aneurysm diameter exceeds 5.5 cm. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is the predominant repair modality for AAA. However, in patients with complex aortic anatomy, fenestrated or branched EVAR is a superior repair option vs standard EVAR. Fenestrated and branched endoprostheses can be off-the-shelf or custom-made, which offers a more individualised approach.

Aim

To summarise and evaluate the clinical outcomes achieved by fenestrated EVAR (FEVAR) and branched EVAR (BEVAR), and to explore the role of custom-made endoprostheses in contemporary AAA management.

Methods

A literature search using Ovid Medline and Google Scholar was conducted to identify literature pertaining to the use and outcomes of fenestrated, branched, fenestrated-branched and custom-made endoprostheses for AAA repair.

Results

FEVAR is an effective repair modality for patients with AAA that offers similar early survival, improved early morbidity but higher rates of reintervention in comparison to open surgical repair (OSR). Compared with standard EVAR, FEVAR is associated with similar in-hospital mortality yet higher rates of morbidity, especially regarding renal outcomes. BEVAR outcomes are rarely reported exclusively in the context of AAA repair. When reported, BEVAR is an acceptable alternative to EVAR in the treatment of complex aortic aneurysms and has similar reported complication issues to FEVAR. Custom-made grafts are a good alternative treatment option for complex aneurysms where hostile aneurysm anatomy precludes the use of conventional EVAR and sufficient time is available for the manufacturing of such devices.

Conclusion

FEVAR offers a very effective treatment for patients with complex aortic anatomy and has been well-characterised over the past decade. RCTs and longer-term studies are desirable for unbiased comparison of non-standard EVAR modalities.