bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of damage control surgery in patients with sacrococcygeal deep decubitus ulcers complicated by sepsis
Authors: Wei Zhiyi , Zhu Jingfa , Lin Tianlai , Cai Hehui , Fang Xiangjian , Zhu Yixin , Yang Xiaolan , Cheng Juntao
Published: October 2021

Objective

To evaluate the clinical application of damage control surgery (DCS) in patients with sacrococcygeal deep decubitus ulcers complicated by sepsis.

Methods

We conducted a 3-year retrospective clinical study of 32 patients with deep sacrococcygeal bedsores and sepsis admitted from January 2018 to January 2021. According to the concept of DCS, the wound was temporarily closed with vacuum sealing drainage after primary debridement, and a local rhomboid flap was designed to repair the wound in the second stage. Finally, the clinical therapeutic effect was observed.

Results

Twenty-nine patients were treated with skin flap translocation and were cured clinically. Specifically, the skin flap survived in 27 of the 29 patients after the first translocation attempt (success rate of 93.1%). One patient developed incisional dehiscence, and one patient developed a hydrocele under the skin flap.

Conclusions

Application of DCS in patients with sacrococcygeal deep decubitus ulcers complicated by sepsis improves the therapeutic success rate and reduces the risks of the operation and complication rate. It has unique advantages and is worthy of clinical promotion.
Comparative efficacy of azithromycin versus clarithromycin in combination with beta-lactams to treat community-acquired pneumonia in hospitalized patients: a systematic review
Authors: Al-Salloum Jumana , Gillani Syed Wasif , Mahmood Rana Kamran , Gulam Shabaz Mohiuddin
Published: October 2021

Objective

The objective was to compare the efficacy of azithromycin and clarithromycin in combination with beta-lactams to treat community-acquired pneumonia among hospitalized adults.

Methods

Five databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Trip, Medline, and Clinical Key) were searched to identify randomized clinical trials with patients exposed to azithromycin or clarithromycin in combination with a beta-lactam. All articles were critically reviewed for inclusion in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

Seven clinical trials were included. The treatment success rate for azithromycin–beta-lactam after 10 to 14 days was 87.55% and that for clarithromycin–beta-lactam after 5 to 7 days of therapy was 75.42%. Streptococcus pneumoniae was commonly found in macrolide groups, with 130 and 80 isolates in the clarithromycin-based and azithromycin-based groups, respectively. The length of hospital stay was an average of 8.45 days for patients receiving a beta-lactam–azithromycin combination and 7.25 days with a beta-lactam–clarithromycin combination.

Conclusion

Macrolide inter-class differences were noted, with a higher clinical success rate for azithromycin-based combinations. However, a shorter length of hospital stay was achieved with a clarithromycin–beta-lactam regimen. Thus, a macrolide combined with a beta-lactam should be chosen using susceptibility data from the treating facility.
Prenatal diagnosis and multidisciplinary management: a case report of congenital granular cell epulis and literature review
Authors: Ye Yujiao , Tang Ruiqi , Liu Beibei , Li Yi , Mo Yunlu , Zhang Yong
Published: October 2021

Congenital granular cell epulis (CGCE) is a rare benign soft tissue lesion that usually originates from the neonatal gingiva and can lead to difficulty in breathing and feeding upon birth. This current case report describes a female newborn with a gingival mass that was identified by prenatal fetal ultrasonography. At birth, the oral mass was observed to protrude from the mouth, which adversely affected feeding. The lips could not be closed. The breathing was unaffected. Through a multidisciplinary team approach involving several healthcare professionals, the mass was successfully removed under general anaesthesia during an uncomplicated surgical procedure. Postoperative histopathological examination confirmed that the mass was a CGCE of the newborn. The infant recovered well after the operation.
Laparoendoscopic single-site compared with conventional laparoscopic surgery for gynaecological acute abdomen in pregnant women
Authors: Jiang Danni , Yang Yang , Zhang Xinxin , He Fang , Wu Yanxia , Niu Jumin , Nie Xiaocui
Published: October 2021

Objective

To estimate the safety and feasibility of laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) in pregnant patients with acute abdomen.

Methods

Baseline characteristics, surgical results, and obstetric and neonatal outcomes were retrospectively compared between single and multiport procedures in patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery during pregnancy between 2017 and 2021.

Results

Fifty-four pregnant patients were included: 26 who underwent LESS (salpingectomy, 11 cases/cystectomy, 15 cases) and 28 who underwent conventional laparoscopic surgeries (salpingectomy, 12 cases/cystectomy, 16 cases) during pregnancy. One patient in the single-port group required additional ports. No patients converted to laparotomy. In patients undergoing salpingectomy, the single-port group showed lower 8- and 24-h postoperative pain scores, shorter hospital stays, and lower Self-rating Anxiety Scale scores prior to discharge versus conventional laparoscopy. One patient experienced postoperative vaginal bleeding and a missed abortion during follow-up. In patients receiving cystectomy, 8- and 24-h pain scores, postoperative hospital stay, and anxiety scores were lower in the single-port versus multiport group. Other outcomes were comparable between the groups.

Conclusion

The feasibility and efficacy of laparoscopic surgery during pregnancy is similar between single- or multiport routes, however, the single-port route may be associated with less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay, and lower anxiety.
“They had already sold”: Uncovering relations among the local state, the market and the public in the case of municipal housing privatization in Rosengård, Sweden
Authors: Gustafsson Jennie
Published: October 2021

This paper uncovers the local state's complex intersections with the market and its multifaceted relations with the public through an in-depth qualitative case study of municipal housing privatization and urban renewal in one of the heartlands of the Swedish welfare state project, Rosengård in Malmö, Sweden. Drawing on the political-economic literature, I argue that housing privatization is entangled with complex interrelations among the (municipal) local state, the market, and the public and that an exploration of these relations reveals contemporary features of the local state. Hence, this investigation highlights the local state's motivation for privatization, the remaking of a market in a place where the market is believed to have failed, and the powers the local state retains. Additionally, the paper elucidates how the function of public assets changes due to privatization and considers tenants’ and residents’ worries, criticism, and concerns about municipal interventions. Subsequently, by grounding these findings in the historical function of municipalities in Sweden, the study contributes new knowledge on the local state in a deepened neoliberalized and financialized urban landscape.
Local Climate Action Planning as a Tool to Harness Greenhouse Gas Emissions Mitigation and the Equity Potential of Autonomous Vehicles and On-Demand Mobility
Authors: Alexander Serena , Weinstein Agrawal Asha , Clark Benjamin
Published: October 2021

This paper focuses on how cities can use climate action plans (CAPs) to ensure that on-demand mobility and autonomous vehicles (AVs) help reduce, rather than increase, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and inequitable impacts from the transportation system. We employed a three-pronged research strategy involving: (1) an analysis of the current literature on on-demand mobility and AVs; (2) a systematic content analysis of 23 CAPs and general plans (GPs) developed by municipalities in California; and (3) a comparison of findings from the literature and content analysis of plans to identify opportunities for GHG emissions reduction and mobility equity. Findings indicate that policy and planning discussions should consider the synergies between AVs and on-demand mobility as two closely related emerging mobility trends, as well as the key factors (e.g., vehicle electrification, fuel efficiency, use and ownership, access, and distribution, etc.) that determine whether the deployment of AVs would help reduce GHG emissions from transportation. Additionally, AVs and on-demand mobility have the potential to contribute to a more equitable transportation system by improving independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities and the elderly, enhancing access to transit, and helping alleviate the geographic gap in public transportation services. Although many municipal CAPs and GPs in California have adopted several strategies and programs relevant to AVs and on-demand mobility, several untapped opportunities exist to harness the GHG emissions reduction and social benefits potential of AVs and on-demand mobility.
Emerging Trends Defining the Future Role of Ports: Application of the Delphi Method
Authors: Garrido Salsas Javier , Saurí Sergi , Raventós Ester , Rúa Carles , Torrent Jordi
Published: October 2021

Trends in logistics and more broadly across technology and energy are resulting in changes to the traditional business models and functions of ports. Because the port ecosystem is going to be considerably different in the following two decades, decision-makers need to have a “port vision” for the year 2040 to prioritize investments and build a strategic plan. This paper seeks to analyze the current trends that have an impact on ports and the subsequent changes in their roles. The impacts are identified by means of Delphi methodology, which is applied to the Port Community of Barcelona. The results of this paper will contribute to the vision of ports of the future by identifying the main trends that will have an impact on ports in the long term (2040). The research has been able to identify the key drivers that will transform ports: green measures to decarbonize maritime transport and supply chains; 3D printing hubs for production or customization on site and available on demand in or next to port areas; new physical and digital infrastructures for automated and connected vehicles and port terminals; and finally, full digitalization to offer new services (track and trace, call optimization, etc.) as well as an optimized supply chain oriented to e-commerce’s exigent and flexible final clients.
Effects of the atrium on intraventricular flow patterns during mechanical circulatory support
Authors: Ghodrati Mojgan , Schlöglhofer Thomas , Maurer Alexander , Khienwad Thananya , Zimpfer Daniel , Beitzke Dietrich , Zonta Francesco , Moscato Francesco , Schima Heinrich , Aigner Philipp
Published: October 2021

Simulations of the ventricular flow patterns during left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support are mainly performed with idealized cylindrical inflow, neglecting the influence of the atrial vortex. In this study, the influence of the left atrium (LA) on the intra-ventricular flow was investigated via Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Ventricular flow was simulated by a combined Eulerian (carrier flow)/Lagrangian (particles) approach taking into account either the LA or a cylindrical inflow section to mimic a fully support condition. The flow deviation at the mitral valve, the blood low-velocity volume as well as the residence time and shear stress history of the particles were calculated. Inclusion of the LA deflects the flow at the mitral valve by 25°, resulting in an asymmetric flow jet entering the left ventricle. This reduced the ventricular low-velocity volume by 40% (from 6.4 to 3.9 cm3), increased (40%) the shear stress experienced by particles and correspondingly increased (27%) their residence time. Under the studied conditions, the atrial geometry plays a major role in the development of intraventricular flow patterns. A reliable prediction of blood flow dynamics and consequently thrombosis risk analysis within the ventricle requires the consideration of the LA in computational simulations.
Measuring Attitudes Toward Pregnant Women who are Incarcerated in a University Sample
Authors: Clark Rachel A. , Lasich Kathryn , Sluiter Emily , Burman Taylor , Jagirdar Simran , Garavaglia Hannah , Gogineni Neha , Sakthivel Harshini , Manzo Miranda , Tapia Ruby
Published: October 2021

Public attitudes toward people who are incarcerated have been studied; however, there is a paucity of information regarding how the public views pregnant women who are incarcerated. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative assessment investigating attitudes toward pregnant women who are incarcerated and prison conditions at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. Participants included 507 students, staff, and faculty who were asked to specifically consider pregnant women who are incarcerated while completing the survey. We found that women, younger people, non-religious or non-Christian individuals, and those with higher levels of formal education perceived pregnant women who are incarcerated more positively and favored less punitive prison conditions. In addition, closer proximity to people who are incarcerated was associated with more positive attitudes toward pregnant women who are incarcerated but was not related to views on prison conditions. Qualitatively, participants reported that considering pregnant women who are incarcerated led them to respond with the same or less negativity than if they had been asked to consider people who are incarcerated as a whole, citing factors such as gender stereotypes and concern for the child. These results can be used as a foundation to understand how students, faculty, and staff at a large Midwestern university perceive pregnant women who are incarcerated and to inform education and policy efforts.
A comparison between constitutive models for the municipal solid waste
Authors: Yousefi Mohammadreza , Shariatmadari Nader , Noorzad Ali , Mohammadi Amirhossein , Mahmoodi MohammadJavad
Published: October 2021

This paper compares the behavioural models of municipal solid waste (MSW) using the corresponding experimental data. To do so, the proposed models are first reviewed and, then, the algorithms and codes of different models are written. After obtaining each model’s algorithm, the same experimental data are considered as input, and the strain–stress curve is plotted for each model. In the first method, the total strain in the waste is obtained based on the summation of the elastic, plastic, biological, and creep strains. Afterward, the equivalent stress is obtained. In this method, using biological changes over time, the age of the waste is calculated as an effective parameter in MSW behaviour. Moreover, the effect of creep on the waste is considered independently. In the second algorithm, MSW is considered as fibre and paste material, and the strain–stress curve is obtained. In this method, the waste is considered as a soil model, and the effect of different parameters are calculated. Due to the complexity of the MSW behaviour and considering various parameters, such as the age of the waste, E changes over time, creep, and biological changes, the Krase model has less error than the other models. Using the soil behaviour model for the waste has a significant error, indicating the difference between the results for the behaviours of the two substances.
Unpacking Violent Behavior in Young Adulthood: The Relative Importance of Hazardous Alcohol Use
Authors: Lawler Siobhan , Stapinski Lexine , Teesson Maree , Prior Katrina , Basto-Pereira Miguel , Newton Nicola , Barrett Emma L.
Published: October 2021

Young adulthood is an important developmental period for investigating the nature of violent behavior. This study examines the unique contribution of alcohol use to violence perpetration among young adults in the Australian community, after accounting for the influence of sociodemographic, early life, trait, and well-being influences. Cross-sectional, self-report data was collected from 507 young adults aged 18-20 years in the Australian general community via an online survey. Sequential logistic regressions examined the relative and independent contribution of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), impulsivity, psychological distress, and hazardous alcohol use to past-year violent behavior. Results show one in eight young adults aged 18-20 (13%) reported at least one act of violent behavior in the past year, primarily assault perpetrated against another person. Sequential logistic regression identified that after controlling for other risk factors, the number of ACEs reported and hazardous alcohol use were independently and positively associated with increased odds of reporting violent behavior in young adulthood. These findings demonstrate that ACEs and hazardous alcohol use are important, independent correlates of violent behavior in young adults. While preventing early adversity is key for reducing violence in the community, this evidence suggests that it is also important to target proximal causes such as hazardous alcohol use. Increasing early and widespread access to evidence-based, trauma-informed violence-prevention programs targeting risk factors across multiple settings is critical for reducing harm and supporting young people into healthy adulthood.
Legally Mandated, Formally Pressured, or Voluntary Anger Treatment: Associations With Treatment Recommendations, Refusal, and Completion
Authors: Seto Michael C. , Healey Lindsay V. , Ahmed Adekunle G.
Published: October 2021

Legally mandated treatment is common in the criminal justice system, for example, for anger management, substance misuse, and intimate partner violence. Past studies have compared voluntary and legally mandated treatment participants but have not distinguished a third, in-between group that is formally pressured to participate in treatment, but not mandated by the criminal justice system. The current study aimed to assess differences on individual characteristics (e.g., sociodemographic and psychiatric) and baseline measures of psychopathology (e.g., anger, aggression, and depression) across three levels of voluntariness and to determine whether voluntariness was associated with treatment recommendation, refusal, and completion at an outpatient anger treatment clinic. Data were retrospectively gathered from the clinical charts of 405 participants. Referrals were classified as voluntary (e.g., self-referred, 61%), formally pressured (e.g., required by work, 14%), or legally mandated (e.g., court order, 25%). Legally mandated participants were younger, more likely to have substance use disorder, less likely to be women, to have a high school education, or to be on psychiatric medications compared to the other two groups. Voluntary participants scored higher on measures of self-reported anger, depression, and stress than the legally mandated participants. Legally mandated participants in particular presented with non-clinical levels of anger and aggression. Level of voluntariness did not affect the decision to recommend individual or group therapy after an intake assessment, but legally mandated participants were significantly more likely ( OR = 2.30) than voluntary participants to refuse recommended treatment. Level of voluntariness did not have a significant association with treatment completion. Findings support our distinction between legally mandated and formally pressured participants, but do not support previous research that suggests legally mandated individuals have lower attrition rates in similar treatment programs. The study has implications for the criminal justice system and for anger treatment programs who admit participants with varying levels of voluntariness.
Empirical Evidence on the Economic Impacts of Hotel Taxes
Authors: Swenson Charles
Published: October 2021

Tourist taxes are an important source of revenue for many governments. In the United States, all states impose them in the form of hotel/motel occupancy taxes, yet there is little ex post evidence as to whether such taxes affect occupancy rates. This study uses a precise establishment-level data source to examine California's varying rates by city, enabling powerful tests. The author finds that such taxes have negligible impacts on hotel sales and employment. On the other hand, hotels/motels operating in higher tax-rate cities tended to have more financial stress in terms of lower Dun and Bradstreet credit ratings.
Amiodarone-Induced Hyponatremia in An Elderly Patient: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Mahadevappa Manjappa , Jodiya Annet , Chalasani Sri Harsha , Syed Jehath M. , Ramesh Madhan , Pereira Prathibha
Published: October 2021

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug belonging to Vaughan-Williams Class III with additional Class IV effects, which is known to cause many adverse drug reactions (ADRs) necessitating close monitoring. In about 20% of patients, their therapy is discontinued due to adverse effects such as hepatic impairment, thyroid dysfunction, and several pulmonary complications. Although dyselectrolytemia is a common adverse reaction reported with many cardiac medications, the incidence of hyponatremia associated with amiodarone intake is not reported widely in the literature. We are reporting a case of a 73-year-old female patient, with hypertension and ischemic heart disease (IHD) receiving oral amiodarone, presenting with severe hyponatremia, requiring recurrent hospitalization. Amiodarone was found to be responsible after evaluating for the possible causes of hyponatremia. As the incidence of amiodarone-associated hyponatremia is unknown, and not many cases are reported, this case report serves to sensitize the clinician to consider amiodarone-induced hyponatremia as one of the differential diagnoses in cases of unexplained hyponatremia.
Development of near homogeneous properties in wire arc additive manufacturing process for near-net shaped structural component of low-carbon steel
Authors: Paul Amrit Raj , Mukherjee Manidipto , Raja Manivannan , Kundu Soumyajit , Chatterjee Avik
Published: October 2021

Low-carbon steel is a common structural material, but additively manufactured structural component of this material is rare due to its inhomogeneous properties. In this article, the wire arc additive manufacturing method was used to achieve near homogeneous properties of a low-carbon steel structural component. The process heat input was optimised for the desired layer geometry, and then the optimal energy was applied with a time delay to deposit individual layers. The time delay was used to achieve cyclic heating and cooling treatment of deposited layers. The best possible robotic tool path movement with multi point arcing was further adopted in the study to achieve proper thermal distribution across the structural component. The microstructure of layers was dominated by quasi-polygonal ferrite morphology and pearlite precipitation, with little variation in quantity across the component. The hardness profile was almost consistent with the average hardness of ∼176.92 HV. The proof stress slightly increases with decrease in grain size and increase in ferrite/pearlite ratio, however, the overall tensile behaviour is homogeneous with average σ0.2, σu and ε% values of 427.78 MPa, 527.89 MPa and 22.31%, respectively. The quasi-ductile fracture was generally occurred due to void coalescence around larger inclusions. The overall analysis showed that more than 90% of homogeneity was achieved in microstructural and mechanical behaviour of the deposited component.
Novel investigation on tribological behavior of microwave synthesized functionally graded claddings
Authors: Kaushal Sarbjeet , Gupta Dheeraj , Bhowmick Hiralal
Published: October 2021

In this study, functional performance of Ni/Cr3C2 functionally graded claddings (FGCs) was investigated under dry sliding wear environment. The Ni/Cr3C2-based FGCs were produced by varying Cr3C2 fraction (Ni-XCr3C2) (X=10%–30% by weight) using microwave irradiation. The FGC layers were composed of cellular-structure with reinforced particles dispersed randomly inside Ni-based matrix. Variation of Cr3C2 particles inside Ni matrix exhibited significant impact on micro-structural and mechanical properties. The microhardness profile of the FGC layers showed an increase in hardness value with an increase in the amount of reinforced Cr3C2 particles. FGC top layers showed the maximum value of micro-hardness of 555 ± 34 HV. Functional performance of microwave processed FGCs was studied through the pin-on-disk tribometer under varying sliding velocity and sliding distances. For comprehension study, wear study was also carried out on microwave processed single layer clads with compositions corresponding to FGC layers. The FGC sample showed better wear resistance than all single clad layers and substrate material. The FGC sample exhibited 1.6 times less wear rate than the Ni-based + 30% Cr3C2 single layer clad. The worn-out surfaces of FGC and single-layer-clads showed presence of multiples cracks and grooves, which resulted in their weight loss during dry sliding contact. Material debonding and the formation of craters and cracks are the main phenomena responsible for the wear loss in the FGC surface.
Parametric investigation on surface roughness and hole quality of Ti metal hybrid fibers cored laminate (MFL) during abrasive water jet drilling
Authors: Rajesh Munusamy , Kaliyamoorthy Rajkumar , Kirubakaran Ramraji
Published: October 2021

High-strength environment-friendly metal-fiber laminates (MFLs) are increasingly used for primary structures for various engineering applications. The surface roughness variation and delamination factor of a titanium (Ti) metal-cored basalt/flax fiber laminate were investigated during abrasive water jet drilling (AWJD). The present AWJD investigation is to establish the correlation of four important process independent variables of WJP—water jet pressure, TS—traverse speed, QMFR—abrasive mass flow rate, and SOD—stand-off distance to the delamination factor (Fd-top) and surface roughness (Ra) of drilled hole. Central composite design (CCD) of L29 orthogonal array was used to perform the experimental observations. The statistical approach (ANOVA) was employed to determine the contribution of individual AWJD parameters to drilling operation. It is identified from experimental results that the water jet pressure is the most predominant process parameter and its contribution on Fd-top and Ra were 74.28% and 72.48%, respectively. Increasing the water pressure from low (160 MPa) to its higher range (320 MPa) showed that the surface roughness and delamination factor were reduced irrespective of other drilling parameters. Increased water pressure provides enough kinetic energy for abrasive particles to facilitate a higher penetration potential during the drilling process. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images show the machining-induced damages like ploughing marks, uncut fibers, ridges, craters, matrix smearing, and delamination on an abrasive water jet drilled surface of prepared MFL.
Characteristic study of modified nano CuO powder-based paraffin composite and its experimental investigation of melting/solidification behavior for mobilized cold thermal storage systems
Authors: Anandan Shanmuga Sundaram , Sundarababu Jagannathan , Ravi Rajesh , Venkatesan Kanchana
Published: October 2021

The low thermal conductivity of Phase Change Materials (PCM) reduces its performance and remains a challenging issue. In the present study, modified nano copper oxide powder (CuO) with various weight percentages is dispersed into paraffin wax to form Nano-PCM composites (NPCM). Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis showed the uniform dispersion of modified CuO and spherical in structure. Diffraction Scanning Calorimeter analysis (DSC) showed a trivial difference in the melting point of PCM and NPCM. The peak melting temperature of PCM was 18.56°C and for NPCM with 1% concentration was 17.14°C. The thermal conductivity of NPCM in solid and liquid states was high when compared to that of pure PCM. The thermal conductivity of NPCM with a 1% concentration is enhanced by 52% in a solid state and 20% in a liquid state. Solidification/Melting experiments conducted at different bath temperatures such as 15°C, 17°C, and 19°C for PCM and NPCM revealed that the solidification period and melting period reduced with an increase in concentrations of modified Nano CuO due to augmented heat transfer rates. The solidification time for NPCM with 1% concentration is reduced by 18.33% for discharging temperature 25°C, and melting time are reduced by 16.6% for charging temperature.
Assessment of computer vision methods for motion tracking of planar mechanisms
Authors: Arellano-González Juan C , Medellín-Castillo Hugo I , Cervantes-Sánchez J. Jesús , García-Murillo Mario A
Published: October 2021

One of the main challenges on the use of planar mechanisms is to verify and monitor that the trajectories described by the mechanism correspond to those originally required. However, very few research studies have focused on tracking and monitoring the motion of target points located on the mechanisms during operation conditions. In this paper, a comparative study to evaluate the performance of several computer vision methods (CVMs) when used in motion tracking of planar mechanisms is presented. The aim is to compare and identify the best CVM, in terms of precision, speed, low cost, and computational performance, to track the movement of planar mechanisms. For this purpose, a case study corresponding to a planar four-bar mechanism is selected and analysed. The results show that the vision methods based on the homogeneous and non-homogeneous solution of the camera calibration matrix are a technological alternative for monitoring motion trajectories of planar mechanisms.
Multi-objective biomimetic optimization design of stiffeners for automotive door based on vein unit of dragonfly wing
Authors: Xu Fengxiang , Wang Junyao , Hua Lin
Published: October 2021

In this paper, a biomimetic optimizing design of the stiffeners layout of the automotive inner door panels is proposed based on vein unit of dragonfly wing. The distributions features of the dragonfly veins and similarity as stiffeners are analyzed, and then the excellent structural features of mechanical properties of the dragonfly veins are extracted to work as a biomimetic design. In order to research the distribution of the reinforced areas in the interior door panels under various operating conditions, the finite element model is established firstly. Secondly, gray relation theory combined with analytic hierarchy analysis are imposed to determine the weight value of each condition in multi-objective topology optimization to fully consider both objective and subjective factors, and topological optimization results indicate that the stiffeners of the inner door panel are biconically designed. Finally, the original finite element results of the inner door panels are compared with that after optimized with biomimetic stiffeners under the same operating conditions, and the result of the comparison verify the effectiveness of the biomimetic topology design. Specifically, for the dent-resistant and sinking condition, the strength of new door increases by 20.2% and 14.3%, respectively. Therefore, doors with biomimetic stiffeners have an increased resistance to deformation and vibration, while the mass is reduced by 2.7%. The results can provide valuable new ideas for the optimal biomimetic design of automotive door inner panel stiffeners.
Elton Mayo and Thomas Henry Reeve Mathewson: the forgotten Australian pioneers of the treatment of patients with shell shock, neurasthenia and nervous breakdown
Authors: Ohry Avi , Matthewson Mandy
Published: October 2021

The contributions of Australians on shell shock are absent from the literature. However, two Australians were pioneers in the treatment of shell shock: George Elton Mayo (1880–1949) and Dr Thomas Henry Reeve Mathewson (1881–1975). They used psychoanalytic approaches to treat psychiatric patients and introduced the psychoanalytic treatment of people who suffered from shell shock. Their ‘talking cure’ was highly successful and challenged the view that shell shock only occurred in men who were malingering and/or lacking in fortitude. Their work demonstrated that people experiencing mental illness could be treated in the community at a time when they were routinely treated as inpatients. It also exemplified the substantial benefits of combining science with clinical knowledge and skill in psychology and psychiatry.
Inverse optimal adaptive output feedback control of a class of Euler–Lagrange systems: A nonlinear filter based approach
Authors: Aksoy Orhan , Zergeroglu Erkan , Tatlicioglu Enver
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we present an inverse optimal tracking controller for a class of Euler–-Lagrange systems having uncertainties in their dynamical terms under the restriction that only the output state ( i.e. position for robotic systems) is available for measurement. Specifically, a nonlinear filter is used to generate a velocity substitute, then a controller formulation ensuring a globally asymptotically stable closed-loop system while minimizing a performance index despite the presence of parametric uncertainty, is proposed. The stability proof is established using a Lyapunov analysis of the system with proposed optimal output feedback controller. Inverse optimality is derived via designing a meaningful cost function utilizing the control Lyapunov function. Numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the viability and performance of the derived controller.
Ephedrine ameliorates cerebral ischemia injury via inhibiting NOD-like receptor pyrin domain 3 inflammasome activation through the Akt/GSK3β/NRF2 pathway
Authors: Li Qunxian , Wu Jing , Huang Lixian , Zhao Bo , Li Qingbin
Published: October 2021

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and long-term disability worldwide. The aim of this study is to explore the potential function of ephedrine in ischemic stroke and the underlying molecular mechanism. A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model was established. The potential effects of ephedrine on MCAO rats and LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells were evaluated. Ephedrine reduced the infarct volume, cell apoptosis, brain water content, neurological score, and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) production in MCAO rats. Ephedrine treatment also suppressed TNF-α and IL-1β production and NOD-like receptor pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation in BV2 microglial cells. The expression of NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β was suppressed by ephedrine. Moreover, ephedrine treatment increased the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3β and nuclear NRF2 levels in LPS-treated BV2 microglial cells. Meanwhile, LY294002 attenuated the inhibitory effects of ephedrine on NLRP3 inflammasome activation and TNF-α and IL-1β production. In addition, the level of pAkt was increased, while NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β were decreased by ephedrine treatment in MCAO rats. In conclusion, ephedrine ameliorated cerebral ischemia injury via inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation through the Akt/GSK3β/NRF2 pathway. Our results revealed a potential role of ephedrine in ischemic stroke treatment.
Modification of physical and functional characteristics of chitin extracted from microwave-treated Nelumbo nucifera rhizome flour
Authors: Nawaz Haq , Mannan Rabia , Nishan Umar
Published: October 2021

Chitin, a cell wall polysaccharide, extracted from Nelumbo nucifera rhizome (NNR), was subjected to microwave treatment to modify its physical and functional characteristics. The NNR flour was irradiated at different levels of the microwave treatment period (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min). Chitin was extracted from the native and microwave-treated samples and analyzed for physical and functional characteristics. The microwave treatment resulted in some variations in the extract yield, structure, morphology, and composition of chitin that were directly correlated with its functional properties. Regression analysis of the data showed a significant ( p < 0.05) time-dependent linear decrease in extract yield, polynomial decrease in water-holding and swelling capacities, an exponential increase in oil holding, and an exponential decrease in iron-binding capacity of chitin extracted from microwave-treated flour. These variations in the studied functional properties may be due to microwave-induced hydrolytic degradation of chitin, structural rearrangements, and exposure of some lipophilic functional groups on the surface of chitin. The data would be a valuable contribution to the literature regarding microwave-induced modification in physical and functional characteristics of chitin present in N. nucifera rhizome and other plant-based biomaterials of industrial importance.
Effects of Research and Mentoring on Underrepresented Youths’ STEM Persistence Into College
Authors: Beauchamp Alexandra L. , Roberts Su-Jen , Aloisio Jason M. , Wasserman Deborah , Heimlich Joe E. , Lewis J.D. , Munshi-South Jason , Clark J. Alan , Tingley Karen
Published: October 2021

Background: Authentic research experiences and mentoring have positive impacts on fostering STEM engagement among youth from backgrounds underrepresented in STEM. Programs applying an experiential learning approach often incorporate one or both of these elements, however, there is little research on how these factors impact youth's STEM engagement during the high school to college transition. Purpose: Using a longitudinal design, this study explored the impact of a hands-on field research experience and mentoring as unique factors impacting STEM-related outcomes among underrepresented youth. We focus on the high school to college transition, a period that can present new barriers to STEM persistence. Methodology/Approach: We surveyed 189 youth before and up to 3 years after participation in a 7-week intensive summer intervention. Findings/Conclusions: Authentic research experiences was related to increased youths’ science interest and pursuit of STEM majors, even after their transition to college. Mentorship had a more indirect impact on STEM academic intentions; where positive mentorship experiences was related to youths’ reports of social connection. Implications: Programs designed for continuing STEM engagement of underrepresented youth would benefit from incorporating experiential learning approaches focused on authentic research experiences.
Psychological Resilience and Suicide Attempt in Patients With Bipolar Disorder: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Fernández-Rocha María Luisa , García-Izquierdo Mariano , Ríos-Rísquez María Isabel
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND:

Patients with bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) have a suicide risk of up to 30 times higher than the general population. There is increasing interest in analyzing the effects of resilience in psychiatric diseases and its relationship to other factors such as suicide risk.

AIM:

The main objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between psychological resilience and suicide attempts, along with other relevant clinical and sociodemographic variables in euthymic patients with BPAD.

METHODS:

Eighty six outpatients, more than 18 years old, mostly men (60.5%) with BPAD type 1, 2, mixed, and unspecified, in euthymic phase receiving antidepressant and/or euthimizing treatment, participated in the study. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were assessed by means of a questionnaire and psychological resilience by means of Connor-Davidson’s 10-item Resilience Scale.

RESULTS:

Patients with previous autolytic attempts scored significantly lower in resilience than those who had not attempted suicide ( T = 3.30; p ≤ .001; 20.61 ± 6.58 vs. 26.52 ± 7.29). Patients diagnosed with BPAD scored significantly lower than other samples of university participants, workers, and the unemployed. The number of depressive episodes experienced was negatively and significantly associated with resilience scores ( r = −.28; p < .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients diagnosed with BPAD who had made autolytic attempts had lower resilience scores than those who had not made them and lower scores than other general nonpsychiatric samples. The promotion of resilience in patients diagnosed with BPAD would facilitate a more adaptive and positive coping with the disease and their recovery process.
The Role of Nutrition in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Partha Sarathi Celine I , Mowforth Oliver D , Sinha Amil , Bhatti Faheem , Bhatti Aniqah , Akhbari Melika , Ahmed Shahzaib , Davies Benjamin M
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is the commonest cause of adult spinal cord impairment worldwide, encompassing chronic compression of the spinal cord, neurological disability and diminished quality of life. Evidence on the contribution of environmental factors is sparse; in particular, the role of nutrition in DCM is unknown. The objective of this review was to assess the effect of nutrition on DCM susceptibility, severity and surgical outcome.

Methods:

A systematic review in MEDLINE and Embase was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Full-text papers in English papers, focussing on cervical myelopathy and nutrition, published before January 2020 were considered eligible. Quality assessments were performed using the GRADE assessment tool. Patient demographics, nutritional factor and DCM outcomes measures were recorded. Relationships between nutritional factors, interventions and disease prognosis were assessed.

Results:

In total, 5835 papers were identified of which 44 were included in the final analysis. DCM patients with pathological weight pre-operatively were more likely to see poorer improvements post-surgically. These patients experienced poorer physical and mental health improvements from surgery compared to normal weight patients and were more likely to suffer from post-operative complications such as infection, DVT, PE and hospital readmissions. Two trials reporting benefits of nutritional supplements were identified, with 1 suggesting Cerebrolysin to be significant in functional improvement. An unbalanced diet, history of alcohol abuse and malnourishment were associated with poorer post-operative outcome.

Conclusion:

Although the overall strength of recommendation is low, current evidence suggests nutrition may have a significant role in optimising surgical outcome in DCM patients. Although it may have a role in onset and severity of DCM, this is a preliminary suggestion. Further work needs to be done on how nutrition is defined and measured, however, the beneficial results from studies with nutritional interventions suggest nutrition could be a treatment target in DCM.
Fevers, Sweats, Weight Loss, Oh My! When IgG4 Related Disease Comes Knocking. . .
Authors: Essien Francis , Wolfley Graey , Tate Joshua , Carroll Matthew
Published: October 2021

Immunoglobulin G4-related systemic disease (IgG4-RSD) is a fibro-inflammatory immune condition characterized by IgG4 positive plasma cells, fibrosis, and frequently elevated serum IgG4 level. Akin to sarcoidosis, IgG4-RSD is a systemic disease with diverse organ manifestations linked by common histopathologic features. IgG4-RSD typically presents sub acutely without significant constitutional symptoms or fever. Hepatic Inflammatory pseudotumor (HIP) is a rare manifestation of IgG4-RSD composed of dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate and extensive fibrosis. We present an older Asian male who presented with acute onset of fever and weight loss found to have IgG4-RSD complicated by a HIP and concomitant MSSA abscess.
Wind-interference effect on an octagonal building in varying positions by large eddy simulation
Authors: Kar Rony , Dalui Sujit K
Published: October 2021

Three square plan shaped tall buildings are arranged at the vertices of an equilateral triangle of varying size. The octagonal plan shaped principal building is also positioned randomly such that the position of the principal building is never overlapped with the square plan shaped buildings. The effect of interference of the square buildings on the wind-induced responses of the principal building is thoroughly measured by computational fluid dynamics using large eddy simulation turbulence model. Metamodels for drag and lift coefficients of the principal building in the interfering conditions are established. Interference factors for the pressure coefficients at different faces of the principal building is calculated and cast into efficient mathematical models. Pareto optimality for the maximum interference criterion is obtained. The optimal positions of the principal and interfering buildings for maximum interference are plotted. Selected cases from the Pareto optima are analysed to obtain the transient wind effects for those interference cases. The peak and root-mean-square pressure coefficients of these interfering conditions are compared with that of the isolated condition. The difference between the power spectra of the isolated and interfering conditions are also depicted.
Equivalent circuit model of eddy current damping regarding frequency-dependence with test validation
Authors: Shi Zhiguo , Loong Cheng Ning , Shan Jiazeng
Published: October 2021

This study proposes an equivalent circuit model to simulate the mechanical behavior and frequency-dependent characteristic of eddy current (EC) damping, with the validations from multi-physics finite element (FE) modeling and dynamic testing. The equivalent circuit model is first presented with a theoretical expression of the EC damping force. Then, the transient analysis with an ANSYS-based FE model of an EC damper is performed. The time-history forces from the FE model are compared with that from the proposed equivalent circuit model. The favorable agreement indicates that the proposed model can simulate the nonlinear behavior of EC damping under different excitation scenarios. A noncontact and friction-free planar EC damper is designed, and its dynamic behavior is measured by employing shake table testing. The experimental observations can be reproduced by the proposed equivalent circuit model with reasonable accuracy and reliability. The proposed equivalent circuit model is compared with the classical viscous model and the higher-order fractional model using a complex EC damper simulated in ANSYS to show the advantages of the proposed model regarding model simplicity and prediction accuracy. A single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) structure with different EC damping models is further analyzed to illustrate the need for accurate EC damping modeling.
Exploring innovation in challenging contexts: The experiences of ethnic minority restaurant owners during COVID-19
Authors: Korede Tayo , Al Mamun Abdullah , Lassalle Paul , Giazitzoglu Andreas
Published: October 2021

This article explores how Bangladeshi immigrants who run and own restaurants in the West Midlands of England (UK) participated in forms of innovation in response to the challenges created by COVID-19. Contributing to debates on innovation and diversification in the ethnic minority entrepreneurship literature, we explore through qualitative interview data how restaurant owners innovatively engaged with particular resources to secure their survival and longer-term futures in localised economies. This form of innovation is significant as it occurs among a population of entrepreneurs who have traditionally been portrayed as reluctant to innovate and embrace change. Our study therefore explores how a long-held culturally rooted reluctance to innovate intersects with a contemporary need to innovate for a demographic responding to the crisis. We theorise the form of innovation we identify as situated between a forced bricolage and a neoclassical approach to innovation.