bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The efficacy and safety of anlotinib for subsequent line treatment of small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Huilin , Cao Dedong , Jie Fangfang , He Anbing , Ge Wei
Published: May 2022

Background:

Anlotinib is one of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors that exhibits promising anti-tumor effect in several cancers. However, the efficacy and safety of anlotinib in pre-treated small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is not well determined. Herein, we performed this meta-analysis to summarize the effectiveness and safety of anlotinib in the treatment of pre-treated SCLC.

Methods:

The databases, such as PubMed and Embase, were searched to identify eligible studies. Clinical studies reporting the efficacy and safety of anlotinib in the treatment of patients with pre-treated SCLC were included. The main endpoints were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and adverse events. The Review Manager 5.4 and STATA 14 statistical software were used to perform the meta-analysis.

Results:

A total of 13 studies were included, involving 779 patients with SCLC. The ORR and DCR for the anlotinib group were 0.21 (95%CI: 0.12- 0.31; p < 0.01) and 0.76 (95%CI: 0.69- 0.83; p < 0.01), respectively. The summarized PFS and OS for the anlotinib group were 3.46 (95%CI: 2.68-4.24), and 6.86 (95%CI: 5.79-7.93) months, respectively. Compared with control group, the PFS in the anlotinib group was significantly longer standard mean difference(SMD)=0.76, 95%CI: 0.11, 1.41; p = 0.02). In terms of safety, the most common grade 3 or higher adverse events in the anlotinib group were hypertension (9%; 95%CI: 6%-13%), hand-foot syndrome (6%; 95%CI: 2%-9%), and fatigue (4%; 95%CI: 2%-7%).

Conclusions:

Anlotinib may be associated with favorable efficacy outcomes in pre-treated SCLC patients with acceptable safety.
Assessment of White Spot Lesion and Enamel Demineralization in Orthodontic Patients With Fixed Brackets—A Clinical Appraisal Using Fluoride Mouth Rinse, Fluoride Varnish Containing CPP-ACP, and CPP-ACFP
Authors: Mishra Sumeet , Mani Shubhangi , Sonawane Aishwarya , Viragi Prashant , Toshniwal N. G. , Manerikar Ravindra
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

Efficacy evaluation of casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate complex (CPP-ACP), casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium fluoride phosphate complex (CPP-ACFP), fluoride mouthrinse, and fluoride containing toothpaste as compared to control group for the remineralization of white spot lesions (WSLs) in orthodontic patients with fixed brackets in an in vivo study.

Methods:

Seventy-five subjects with WSL determined by DIAGNOdent were randomly divided into 5 groups. The WSLs DIAGNOdent values for 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.

Results:

Among the groups, the remineralizing potential of fluoride mouth rinse, fluoride containing toothpaste, and CPP-ACP were similar; however, CPP-ACFP value was superior in comparison to all other groups.

Conclusion:

The CPP-ACFP technique is highly beneficial for the remineralization of WSL in an orthodontic patient when compared to fluoride mouth rinse, fluoride-containing toothpaste, and CPP-ACP paste.
Surface Characteristics of Ageing Asphalt Binder Coupling Thermal Oxidation and Ultraviolet Radiation
Authors: Yang Bing , Li Hui , Xie Ning , Yang Jie , Liu Jiawen
Published: May 2022

In this study, styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt binder was aged by thermal oxidation coupled with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Fluorescence microscopy (FM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) detector, surface free energy, optical technology, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and dynamic shear rheometer were used to explore the surface characteristics and trace the chemo-rheological evolution of the asphalt binder at various durations of aging. Both FM and SEM could observe two phases of degradation of the polymer under thermo-oxidation. The surface of UV-aged asphalt binder produced more cracks, observed by FM and SEM, and bulged along these cracks and some fragmented blocks appeared. EDX results indicated that the oxygen content of the surface of the asphalt binder increased with increasing aging duration, leading to more oxygen-containing compounds, more carbonyl and sulfoxide groups, increasing polarity, and decreasing contact angle of water droplets on the surface of the asphalt binder. Coupled aging increased the reflectance in all regions from 200 nm to 2,500 nm, while thermo-oxidative aging alone increased the reflectance from 200 to 400 nm and produced the opposite result in the other region. With increased aging duration, UV-aged asphalt binder becomes brighter and thermo-oxidative aged asphalt binder becomes darker. The asphalt binder samples did not discolor much with varying aging duration, and the color difference was more similar than opposite. The results of testing chemo-rheological properties indicated that the addition of UV radiation significantly increased the stiffness and elasticity and produced more obvious effects on the surface characteristics of variously aged binders.
General Model of the Effect of Hazardous Materials Car Placement in Trains and their Probability of Derailment
Authors: Lin Chen-Yu , Liu Xinhao , Kim Jaemin , Barkan Christopher P. L.
Published: May 2022

Recent changes in freight train operating practices call for improved understanding of the effect of hazmat car placement on hazmat release risk. In existing models, placement of hazmat cars in a train is either assumed to be random or in blocks of grouped cars. There has been little investigation of how different train configurations affect the number of hazmat cars that could potentially derail in an accident. This paper presents a probabilistic model that calculates the probability and number of hazmat cars derailed based on accident characteristics and train configuration. The model distinguishes between hazmat and non-hazmat cars in manifest trains and provides probability distributions and the expected number of hazmat cars derailed under a set of train placement scenarios. The results indicated that the number and distribution of hazmat cars derailed were affected by speed, percentage of hazmat cars in the train (given the same train length), train configuration, and number of hazmat cars in the train (given the same percentage of hazmat cars in the train). The model presented here could be used as a stand-alone tool to evaluate train-configuration-based hazmat car derailment risk, as well as an integral component of an enhanced, comprehensive rail hazmat transportation risk analysis framework. The model results could be used to answer questions in hazmat transportation risk assessment, rail shipment planning and optimization, and tradeoffs related to unit train versus manifest train operation. The results could also inform potential policies about hazmat car placement in trains and operating speed.
Pilot Facility-Level Climate Change Adaptation Assessment for Little Indian Creek, California
Authors: Navaroli Kristen , Dorney Chris , Lennon Justin , Flood Michael , Miller Rawlings , Shrestha Eleeja , Grose Timothy , Ragsdale Annika
Published: May 2022

The pilot facility-level climate change adaptation assessment for Little Indian Creek was a climate change adaptation assessment for a culvert conveying Little Indian Creek at the confluence of North Feather Fork in Plumas County, California, U.S. In previous reports, the culvert was found to be potentially vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as snow melt and wildfire. Snowmelt introduces varying runoff patterns throughout the year depending on the size and saturation of the snowpack. Similarly, burn-scarred landscapes following wildfires can significantly enhance flood flows, sediment, and debris in streams and rivers. Extreme flood and debris flows produced from these conditions significantly affect downstream transportation infrastructure, causing damage to bridges, culverts, and roadways. A baseline stormwater management model (SWMM) was composed to understand the watershed hydrology assuming only rainfall precipitation and natural, healed land cover. Subsequent modeling of the independent variables determined the degree of hydrologic change based on project climate stressors and to what degree the infrastructure is affected. The final goal was to identify the most cost-effective adaptation solution that meets all agency and community standards and needs. The Little Indian Creek Culvert Assessment provides a useful pilot, and draft tools and process, to inform similar projects at departments of transportation.
Cost Drivers of Electric Bus Contracts: Analysis of 33 Indian Cities
Authors: Gadepalli Ravi , Gumireddy Sushmitha , Bansal Prateek
Published: May 2022

Electric buses (e-buses) are rapidly gaining global interest for their energy efficiency and emission reduction benefits. Even though e-bus technology has leapt forward in recent years, the business models are still evolving. Insights from recent e-bus procurements can be used to understand the key factors driving their costs and to improve the efficiency of future procurements. However, there is almost no quantitative literature on e-bus contracting. This paper analyzes data from 36 e-bus contracts across 33 cities in India to identify the key variables that influence the outputs of procurement. The number of bids attracted by the tender and the cost quoted per kilometer are identified as the key outputs of a procurement exercise. Pairwise correlation analysis shows statistically significant associations of the two outputs with the following inputs: number of buses tendered, bus length, contract duration, payment for minimum assured kilometers and any additional kilometers of operation, specifying daily operational hours per bus, performance guarantee to be furnished by the operator, penalty for delay in bus delivery and time allowed for bid submission. The role of effective service planning to ensure accurate representation of operational variables in the contract is also highlighted. These variables are passed through the data envelopment analysis to derive the efficiency of the contracts for the number of bids and the cost quoted per kilometer. The relative efficiency levels between cities and the scale efficiency derived for each contract provide useful insights to improve the cost efficiency of future procurements.
Characterizing and Modeling the Coupled Hydro-Mechanical Cyclic Behavior of Unsaturated Soils Using Constant Water Content Oedometer and Direct Shear Tests
Authors: Riad Beshoy , Zhang Xiong
Published: May 2022

Most transportation infrastructures are constructed on compacted soils that are typically unsaturated above the groundwater table. The soils are subjected to cyclic traffic loadings and seasonal wetting–drying cycles. Although problems associated with unsaturated soils are ubiquitous in the US, coupled hydro-mechanical analysis is rarely included in the design/analysis of transportation geosystems. This can be attributed to two main reasons: (a) there are no simple devices/methods which can be used to rapidly characterize stress–strain behavior for unsaturated soils, and (b) there is a lack of a constitutive model to study coupled hydro-mechanical cyclic behavior for unsaturated soils in a consistent way. This paper takes advantage of the recent advancements in suction measurement and constitutive modeling to overcome these limitations. In this paper, conventional oedometer and direct shear tests for saturated soils are modified to characterize stress–strain behavior of unsaturated soils under cyclic undrained loading conditions. Then, series of constant water content cyclic oedometer and direct shear tests are performed to characterize the hydro-mechanical behavior of a silty soil. Moreover, methods are developed to use results from both tests to calibrate parameters for a recently proposed hydro-mechanical constitutive model. The paper also compares the model predictions with the measured results. Results indicate that the model is able to satisfactorily predict the hydro-mechanical hysteresis behavior of the soil. With developments in equipment, constitutive models, and analysis, it is now possible to fully characterize the hydro-mechanical behavior of unsaturated soils in a more efficient manner.
Preserving Sustainability Gains of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study of MIT Campus Commuting
Authors: Berke Alex , Doorley Ronan , Alfonso Luis , Larson Kent
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 profoundly affected how communities live, work, and commute. In particular, reductions in commutes caused reductions in commuter-related emissions. The pandemic also prompted businesses and institutions to consider longer-term adjustments, including work-from-home policies that continue beyond pandemic protocols. If properly evaluated and implemented, these policies may have long-term beneficial impacts in reducing commuter-related emissions. This work presents a case study of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology campus community, using data from a prepandemic transportation survey with responses from approximately 50% of the community, as well as data on the academic groups and home locations of the broader population. These data were used to estimate car commuter miles by various academic groups and to model and evaluate interventions in relation to reducing car commuter miles. The interventions include staff work-from-home policies, changes that increase use of alternative transit, and improving access to housing. The analysis used differences in how groups commute to inform the potential interventions. For example, there was an estimated 16% reduction in car commuter miles if staff worked from home 1 day/week on average (excluding service staff whose work is on-site), and the same estimated reduction could be achieved were just one staff group that is well-suited to working from home allowed to do so 2 days/week. This analysis is intended to establish groundwork for further studies to assess how potential campus policies and land use might affect sustainable transportation use and parking demand, as well as to provide a case study for other institutions considering similar changes.
Simulation-Based Evacuation System for Large-Scale Urban Road Network Considering Traffic Conditions
Authors: Xu Jianmin , Zhao Min , Lin Yongjie
Published: May 2022

In case of an emergency, it is necessary to consider the impact of all traffic conditions on implementing the evacuation program accurately and reliably because there are still some private vehicles running in the evacuation area. To tackle this issue, this paper presents a large-scale simulation-based evacuation system from multiple evacuation depots to multiple safety depots considering traffic conditions, including three parts: traffic conditions acquisition, evacuation path planning, and microsimulation evaluation. Firstly, the traffic conditions related to link travel time between two points are estimated by considering private vehicles running on the road network and the rescue bus vehicles participating in the evacuation. A multi-path choice model for a dynamic time-varying network is then proposed, which might solve the evacuation paths with the minimum of evacuation time. Experimental results show that the proposed method could have higher accuracy than the traditional static path planning, as well as higher computational efficiency than the dynamic algorithm. Finally, the variable cell transmission model (VCTM) is improved to deduce the characteristics of evacuation traffic flow under the estimated traffic conditions, which can be used to recognize the bottlenecks in the road network and re-optimize traffic control measurements. The contrastive analysis results showed that the improved VCTM is in good agreement with the operation results of the popular microscopic simulation software VISSIM.
Machine Learning Based Automated Left-Turn Vehicle Counts With Conventional Presence Mode Long-Loop Detectors: Alabama Case Studies
Authors: Biswas Pranesh , Kang Min-Wook , Rahman Moynur
Published: May 2022

Inductive-loop detectors are still used in many intersections because highway agencies have insufficient budget to replace them with new technologies or when accurate traffic monitoring is not necessary. Particularly, long-loop stop-bar detectors have been widely used for left-turning vehicles and are operated under “Presence” mode, which focuses only on detecting the presence of vehicles for signal operations, not for counting vehicles. As a result, a significant discrepancy exists between the number of vehicle detections and the actual vehicle observations. The present study developed machine learning (ML)-based methods to overcome this discrepancy so that conventional long-loop detectors can also be used for estimating hourly left-turn volume. Several ML classifiers were adopted to predict the difference (i.e., detection versus observation) for every vehicle detection event. Three predictors (detector occupancy time, left-turn phases when the detector is on and off) from high-resolution data were used as input of the ML models. Results showed that all the models are statistically significant with p-value <0.05. The developed models were then applied to estimate hourly left-turn volume, by adding its prediction result to left-turn detection counts by the detector. The hourly left-turn volume estimated with the proposed method accounts for 96% of the actual left turns for low left-turn traffic conditions, and 93% for heavy left-turn traffic conditions. This indicates that the proposed method can provide a good estimation of hourly left-turn volume for signalized intersections operated with long-loop detectors. The method is simple and based on data from existing vehicle detection technologies already in typical signalized intersections.
Reciprocal Relations Between Children’s Social and Academic Skills Throughout Elementary School
Authors: Caemmerer Jacqueline M. , Hajovsky Daniel B.
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to estimate the longitudinal and reciprocal predictive relations between children’s social skills, measured by an adaptation of the frequently used Social Skills Rating Scale, and their standardized academic achievement. A large nationally representative sample of elementary school students were assessed at least annually from kindergarten through fifth grade in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 2010–2011 ( n = 7963). Structural equation modeling was used to test a panel model of teacher-rated interpersonal and self-control skills and children’s scores on standardized reading, math, and science achievement tests. Reciprocal relations between children’s social skills and achievement were supported throughout elementary school, with achievement showing a stronger and consistent pattern of influence on children’s subsequent social skills.
A review on alginate-based bioinks, combination with other natural biomaterials and characteristics
Authors: Shams Elika , Barzad Mohammad Sadegh , Mohamadnia Sonia , Tavakoli Omid , Mehrdadfar Alireza
Published: May 2022

The advent of three-dimensional (3D) Bioprinting increased the need for a suitable bioink in which Cells can live, proliferate and generate specific tissue and organ. Therefore, bioinks must have several physical and chemical characteristics that depend on the bioprinting modality and the target tissue. Alginate is considered a promising biomaterial for bioprinting due to its distinct physicochemical properties and diverse biological functions. However, some characteristics, such as cell adherence and biodegradability, are lacking, which can compensate when combined with other biomaterials, for example, gelatin, gelatin methacryloyl (GelMa), cellulose, silk fibroin, and hyaluronic acid. The alginate–gelatin blend receives considerable attention since gelatin has Arginine, Glycine, and Aspartate, the tripeptide Arg–Gly–Asp (RGD) sequence that could sustain cell attachment. Some parameters assist the optimization of bioink features like temperature, biomaterials' concentration, and crosslinking time. For instance, the viscosity of alginate increases by enhancing its concentration, and while it exhibits shear thinning property, it will be printed correctly. This review interprets the alginate-based bioink, focusing on its composite with other natural biomaterials, especially gelatin. Also, it discusses the parameters that affect bioink functionality and cell viability.
Economic Abuse and Care-seeking Practices for HIV and Financial Support Services in Women Employed by Sex Work: A Cross-Sectional Baseline Assessment of a Clinical Trial Cohort in Uganda
Authors: Jennings Mayo-Wilson Larissa , Yen Bing-Jie , Nabunya Proscovia , Bahar Ozge Sensoy , Wright Brittanni N. , Kiyingi Joshua , Filippone Prema L. , Mwebembezi Abel , Kagaayi Joseph , Tozan Yesim , Nabayinda Josephine , Witte Susan S. , Ssewamala Fred M.
Published: May 2022

Economic hardship is a driver of entry into sex work, which is associated with high HIV risk. Yet, little is known about economic abuse in women employed by sex work (WESW) and its relationship to uptake of HIV prevention and financial support services. This study used cross-sectional baseline data from a multisite, longitudinal clinical trial that tests the efficacy of adding economic empowerment to traditional HIV risk reduction education on HIV incidence in 542 WESW. Mixed effects logistic and linear regressions were used to examine associations in reported economic abuse by demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, HIV care-seeking, and financial care-seeking. Mean age was 31.4 years. Most WESW were unmarried (74%) and had less than primary school education (64%). 48% had savings, and 72% had debt. 93% reported at least one economic abuse incident. Common incidents included being forced to ask for money (80%), having financial information kept from them (61%), and being forced to disclose how money was spent (56%). WESW also reported partners/relatives spending money needed for bills (45%), not paying bills (38%), threatening them to quit their job(s) (38%), and using physical violence when earning income (24%). Married/partnered WESW (OR = 2.68, 95% CI:1.60–4.48), those with debt (OR = 1.70, 95% CI:1.04–2.77), and those with sex-work bosses (OR = 1.90, 95% CI:1.07–3.38) had higher economic abuse. Condomless sex ( β = +4.43, p < .05) was higher among WESW experiencing economic abuse, who also had lower odds of initiating PrEP (OR = .39, 95% CI:.17–.89). WESW experiencing economic abuse were also more likely to ask for cash among relatives (OR = 2.36, 95% CI:1.13–4.94) or banks (OR = 2.12, 95% CI:1.11–4.03). The high prevalence of HIV and economic abuse in WESW underscores the importance of integrating financial empowerment in HIV risk reduction interventions for WESW, including education about economic abuse and strategies to address it. Programs focusing on violence against women should also consider economic barriers to accessing HIV prevention services.
The Role of Theory in the Prevention of Sexual Violence in Sport
Authors: Kaufman Keith L. , Lee David S. , Milroy Jeffrey J. , Yore Jennifer , Sitney Miranda , Lipman Aliza , Glace Alyssa , Kyler-Yano Jason , Raj Anita
Published: May 2022

Sexual violence (SV) remains at epidemic proportions in the U.S. and growing evidence demonstrates that youth and adults engaged in sport are at increased risk of victimization and perpetration of SV. Unfortunately, sport SV prevention strategies are rarely built on theory or theoretically grounded evidence, despite demonstrated effectiveness of such approaches. This study aimed to answer to questions: 1) Which theories are relevant to the development of effective SV prevention strategies in sport?; and 2) How has theory been incorporated into existing SV prevention literature on sport safety? A scoping review of the literature plus expert input identified 29 theories pertinent to SV prevention in sport. A systemized review of the literature regarding SV prevention in sport resulted in the identification and characterization of 41 published articles. Authors then examined theory’s role in prevention literature. This study identified 29 theories pertinent to SV prevention in sports and applicable across the behavioral spectrum. Most theories were rooted in the Behavioral (41%), Situational (24%) or Social/Attitudinal (21%) areas. Less common were theories grounded in Feminist (14%) domains. Theories were predominantly focused at the individual (42%), organizational (29%), and interpersonal (18%) ecological levels. Of the 41 sport prevention articles, 33 (83%) referred to a theory either explicitly or implicitly. Though most theories have been incorporated into prevention efforts, closer examination indicates that the majority were descriptive, unlikely to use a sophisticated methodology (10%; e.g., experimental, quasi-experimental), and rarely intended to assess a specific prevention program/strategy or policy (21%). Strong theoretical foundations are available for SV prevention research focused on sports, and their application appears to show value across the developmental spectrum of athletes. There remains a need for greater focus on theory-driven research intended to develop prevention strategies and policies designed to enhance athlete safety.
Sustaining a Commitment to a Stakeholder Primacy Business Model
Authors: Young Christopher K.
Published: May 2022

Investors, politicians, media, and others are asking for a shift to a stakeholder primacy governance model from the current shareholder primacy model While companies are making changes to put more emphasis on other stakeholders (e.g., employees, community, government, customers, and suppliers), execution of this transition has many hurdles. This article discusses many of the practical issues of both becoming more multi-stakeholder sensitive as well as the complexities of managing to a stakeholder primacy business. The focus is on the practical considerations and addresses them from multiple perspectives including measurement and compensation. Finally, it provides some ideas that might be considered for the development of tools to better address the decision-making balancing act inherent in a stakeholder primacy model.
Similarity solution for boundary layer flow near a moving vertical porous plate with combined effects of nonlinear thermal radiation and suction/injection having convective surface boundary condition
Authors: Jha Basant , Samaila Gabriel
Published: May 2022

This piece of work explored the impact of nonlinear thermal radiation on natural convection flow in the vicinity of a constant moving vertical porous plate with suction/injection. The moving vertical porous plate is considered to be either move in the same direction with fluid in the free stream or move in the negative x-direction while the fluid move in the positive x-direction. The partial differential equations (PDEs) associated with the flow properties are simplified to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using similarity variables. Then, the resulting ODEs and the boundary condition are translated into the IVP through the shooting method. Furthermore, the final IVP and the reduced boundary conditions are solved numerically through the Runge–Kutta method. The influence of the emerging dimensionless quantities is analyzed through tables and line graphs. The numerical results obtained revealed that with suction/injection, the shear stress could be enhanced by propagating the local convective heat transfer parameter Bix, nonlinear thermal radiation R and the local Grashof number Grx for the two cases of plate motion considered. The result also revealed that in the presence of suction/injection, the heat transfer rate decreases with Bix and Grx, whereas enhanced with R augment for the two plate motions considered. Furthermore, for a constant moving vertical porous plate and constant moving freestream velocity, the convective heat transfer parameter at any point x is proportional to the corresponding heat transfer coefficient related to hot fluid. The nonlinear thermal radiation enhances the velocity and temperature profiles.
A novel on the retrofit from CNG buses to electric buses for rubber-tyred wheeled public transportation systems
Authors: Topal Orhan
Published: May 2022

The trend toward electric buses worldwide is increasing day by day. Along with it, sectoral infrastructure elements are developing rapidly. Electric buses offer advantages in terms of operating costs and environmental emission values. Despite this, the most important disadvantage is that the purchasing costs have not yet reached the expected level compared to other internal combustion engine buses. Many country and especially city-based targets have been determined for electric solutions in rubber-tyred public transportation systems in the world. Only in Shenzhen city of China, 100% transition to electric bus solution has been achieved in public transportation. In this study, a different perspective has been put forward for the acceleration of the transition to the use of electric buses and the increase in the prevalence of public transportation enterprises. The concept of retrofit. This is conversions of the conventional powered (diesel and CNG) buses into electric buses, which are currently used. For the concept in paper, the actual project costs for one of the world’s most important public transportation companies have been revealed. According to the analysis results obtained, for Payback Period (PB) method are based on a fleet of 100 vehicles in total, the return time of the investment required for the results based on this approach which retrofit from CNG to Electric, is calculated as 8.74 years. For the Payback Period (PB) approach, it has been concluded that for the 5 years, which is envisaged to be taken as a reference, retrofit concept (from CNG to Electric) should be based on 100000 € per vehicle based on the current operating conditions. This retrofit approach based on the concept of sustainable public transportation is expected to become widespread with the results obtained.
Prediction of tribological performance of AA8011/wt.%ZrO2 based composites fabricated by stir casting route
Authors: B. Vinoth , S.V. Alagarsamy , M. Meignanamoorthy , M. Ravichandran
Published: May 2022

Aluminium alloy composites are most popular owing to their versatile applications like high performance parts in aerospace, automotive and marine industries. The intent of current research work is, to predict the optimal parameters for dry sliding wear behaviour of AA8011 matrix composites by using multi attribute decision making method. The varying proportions of zirconia (ZrO2) particles filled composites such as AA8011-5 wt.% ZrO2, AA8011-10 wt.% ZrO2 and AA8011-15 wt.% ZrO2 were synthesized through stir casting method. The microstructure of the proposed composites taken by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and it was ensure the presence of reinforcement particles homogeneously distributed within the matrix alloy. The produced composites were subjected to conduct the dry sliding wear test by using pin-on-disc test rig. During the experiments, four wear control parameters with three levels namely, reinforcement (5 wt.%, 10 wt.% and 15 wt.%), applied load (9.81 N, 19.62 N and 29.43 N), sliding velocity (0.94 m/s, 1.88 m/s and 3.76 m/s) and sliding distance (1000 m, 1500 m and 2000 m) were used. A Taguchi coupled TOPSIS method was employed to predict the multiple responses such as wear rate (WR) and coefficient of friction (COF) of produced composites. Experimental result has been observed that, the reinforcement content was the most remarkable parameter on WR and COF with contribution of 55.06%, subsequently by applied load and sliding velocity with contribution of 26.32% and 12.84% respectively. The worn out surfaces of the tested composite was investigated through SEM analysis.
Concurrent validity and reliability of a semi-automated approach to measuring the magnetic resonance imaging morphology of the knee joint in active youth
Authors: Blaney Traven CR , Ronsky Janet L , Macri Erin M , Jaremko Jacob L , Kuntze Gregor , Pakdel Amir , Whittaker Jackie L , Emery Carolyn A
Published: May 2022

Post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis is attributed to alterations in joint morphology, alignment, and biomechanics triggered by injury. While magnetic resonance (MR) imaging-based measures of joint morphology and alignment are relevant to understanding osteoarthritis risk, time consuming manual data extraction and measurement limit the number of outcomes that can be considered and deter widespread use. This paper describes the development and evaluation of a semi-automated software for measuring tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joint architecture using MR images from youth with and without a previous sport-related knee injury. After prompting users to identify and select key anatomical landmarks, the software can calculate 37 (14 tibiofemoral, 23 patellofemoral) relevant geometric features (morphology and alignment) based on established methods. To assess validity and reliability, 11 common geometric features were calculated from the knee MR images (proton density and proton density fat saturation sequences; 1.5 T) of 76 individuals with a 3–10-year history of youth sport-related knee injury and 76 uninjured controls. Spearman’s or Pearson’s correlation coefficients (95% CI) and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess the concurrent validity of the semi-automated software (novice rater) versus expert manual measurements, while intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC2,1; 95%CI), standard error of measurement (95%CI), 95% minimal detectable change, and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess the inter-rater reliability of the semi-automated software (novice vs resident radiologist rater). Correlation coefficients ranged between 0.89 (0.84, 0.92; Lateral Trochlear Inclination) and 0.97 (0.96, 0.98; Patellar Tilt Angle). ICC estimates ranged between 0.79 (0.63, 0.88; Lateral Patellar Tilt Angle) and 0.98 (0.95, 0.99; Bisect Offset). Bland-Altman plots did not reveal systematic bias. These measurement properties estimates are equal, if not better than previously reported methods suggesting that this novel semi-automated software is an accurate, reliable, and efficient alternative method for measuring large numbers of geometric features of the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints from MR studies.
Brush seal design and secondary air system modification of a heavy-duty gas turbine to improve the output power
Authors: Mobasher Amini Ali , Khavari Ali , Alizadeh Mohammad
Published: May 2022

The overall performance of heavy-duty gas turbines is strongly affected by the mass flow distribution of the secondary air system. Reducing the mass flow of the secondary air is a remarkable method to improve the performance of a gas turbine. The aim of this article is to implement a brush seal as an alternative to labyrinth seal. Based on the experiences gained from the integrity of brush seals into a gas turbine, installing a brush seal would not necessarily improve turbine performance. This is because of SAS mass flow redistribution, which may not lead to overall SAS mass flow reduction. Therefore, some other components in the SAS arrangement should be modified as controlling variables to overcome this problem. The effect of these modifications on the airflow distribution is investigated using an in-house network analysis code. To establish an optimum solution (optimized brush seal geometry and controlling variables), the network analysis code is coupled with an in-house optimization code that benefits from the Genetic Algorithms and Artificial Neural Networks. Some constraints including upstream and downstream cavity purge flow and vane cooling air are considered in the optimization process. The final network results show a 33.27% reduction in overall SAS mass flow. To ensure an improvement in the performance of the new three-stage turbine, a CFD analysis is conducted, which indicates 1.0% more power with respect to the original turbine. In the end, the aerodynamic and mechanical behavior of the brush seal is analyzed using CFD and FEM.
A nonlinear adaptive fuzzy controller with signal transmission delay compensation for steel rope tension active control of mining hoists
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhu Zhen-Cai , Shen Gang , Tang Yu
Published: May 2022

The double-rope winding hoists have been widely used in the ultra-deep mines. However, there exists tension imbalance issue on two steel rope of the double-rope winding hoist. The passive tension control method is not ideal in both adjust accuracy and response speed. Therefore, a novel hybrid control method is proposed for active control of two steel rope tensions considering the wireless transmission delay of steel rope tension signal, nonlinear uncertainties, and external disturbance. First, a signal transmission delay compensator is designed to obtain the observed feedback signal and other correlated variables. It is worth mentioning that the effectiveness of designed signal transmission delay compensator is verified not only in theory and simulation but also by experiments. Then, a hybrid controller that combines the adaptive backstepping theory and adaptive fuzzy algorithm is designed to obtain the active control output of two steel rope tensions. It is theoretically depicted that the proposed nonlinear adaptive fuzzy controller combined with the signal transmission delay compensator not only achieves good robust performance on model uncertainty but also improves the closed-loop system response rate. Moreover, the proposed controller can compensate external disturbance and suppress chattering caused by ordinary methods based on backstepping technology. The stability of the integrated closed-loop system with the hybrid controller is proved on the basis of Lyapunov theory. In order to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed nonlinear adaptive fuzzy controller combined with the signal transmission delay compensator, a double-rope winding hoisting simulated test device is set up for experimental investigation. Then, contrast experiments with the traditional proportion–integration, adaptive backstepping controller, and the proposed controller are conducted on the test device. Experimental results verify the superior of the proposed nonlinear adaptive fuzzy controller combined with the signal transmission delay compensator on tension control of two steel ropes for the double-rope winding hoist.
Concepts for Which We Need Others More: The Case of Abstract Concepts
Authors: Borghi Anna M.
Published: May 2022

The capability to form and use concepts is a core component of human cognition. Although all concepts are grounded in sensorimotor processes, more abstract concepts (e.g., “truth”) collect more heterogeneous and perceptually dissimilar exemplars; thus, linguistic interaction and social interaction are particularly crucial for their acquisition and use. Because of their indeterminacy, abstract concepts generate more uncertainty than more concrete concepts; hence, they induce people to monitor their inner knowledge longer and then to consult others to ask for information and negotiate the concept’s meaning. I propose that people need others more for abstract concepts than for concrete concepts: Other people are essential to acquire, process, and use abstract concepts. Conceiving abstract concepts in these terms requires the employment of novel, interactive methods to investigate how people represent them during their use.
Seismic response sensitivity and optimal design of an isolated multi-span continuous highway bridge with self-centering SMA RC bridge piers and superelastic SMA restrainers
Authors: Li Shuai , Wang Jing-quan , Alam M Shahria
Published: May 2022

The use of superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) in reinforced concrete (RC) pier and restrainers between girder and pier/abutment has been proposed in an earlier study to improve the seismic performance of highway bridges. This paper aims at identifying the significant factors that affect the seismic response of such a novel bridge system. A sequential fractional factorial design method is performed to statistically evaluate the effects of six design factors (three geometry-related and three material-related) as well as their interactions. Additionally, a multi-criteria optimization technique is implemented to determine the most efficient combination of the design parameters for SMA RC piers and SMA restrainers. Results demonstrate that the geometry-related factors and their interactions have large effects (with a contribution greater than 91%) on the relative displacement between the girder and pier. The target residual drift of the pier, design target displacement of the restrainer, and their interaction are the three most significant factors (with contributions approximately 30%–68%) affecting the base shear of the pier. The residual drift of the pier is sensitive to the design target displacement of the restrainer, its interaction with the forward transformation stress of SMA, and material-related factors with regard to the energy dissipation of SMA.
Early DNR in Older Adults Hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 Infection During Initial Pandemic Surge
Authors: Shah Shalin , Makhnevich Alex , Cohen Jessica , Zhang Meng , Marziliano Allison , Qiu Michael , Liu Yan , Diefenbach Michael A. , Carney Maria , Burns Edith , Sinvani Liron
Published: May 2022

The role of early Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) in hospitalized older adults (OAs) with SARS-CoV-2 infection is unknown. The objective of the study was to identify characteristics and outcomes associated with early DNR in hospitalized OAs with SARS-CoV-2. We conducted a retrospective chart review of older adults (65+) hospitalized with COVID-19 in New York, USA, between March 1, 2020, and April 20, 2020. Patient characteristics and hospital outcomes were collected. Early DNR (within 24 hours of admission) was compared to non-early DNR (late DNR, after 24 hours of admission, or no DNR). Outcomes included hospital morbidity and mortality. Of 4961 patients, early DNR prevalence was 5.7% (n = 283). Compared to non-early DNR, the early DNR group was older (85.0 vs 76.8,  P < .001), women (51.2% vs 43.6%,  P = .012), with higher comorbidity index (3.88 vs 3.36,  P < .001), facility-based (49.1% vs 19.1%,  P < .001), with dementia (13.3% vs 4.6%,  P < .001), and severely ill on presentation (57.9% vs 32.3%,  P < .001). In multivariable analyses, the early DNR group had higher mortality risk (OR: 2.94, 95% CI: 2.10–4.11), less hospital delirium (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.40–.77), lower use of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV, OR: 0.37, 95% CI: .21–.67), and shorter length of stay (LOS, 4.8 vs 10.3 days,  P < .001), compared to non-early DNR. Regarding early vs late DNR, while there was no difference in mortality (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.85–1.62), the early DNR group experienced less delirium (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: .40–.75), IMV (OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.29–.96), and shorter LOS (4.82 vs 10.63 days, OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.30–.41). In conclusion, early DNR prevalence in hospitalized OAs with COVID-19 was low, and compared to non-early DNR is associated with higher mortality but lower morbidity.
Are Patients Who Trust Their Providers More Likely to Use Medical Cannabis?
Authors: Kurtzman Ellen T. , Greene Jessica
Published: May 2022

Background: Trust is an essential element of the patient-provider relationship and has been associated with better patient outcomes; however, it is not clear what role trust might play in influencing patients’ willingness to try medical cannabis when it is recommended in states where it has been legalized for medical use. Objectives: To explore the relationship between peoples’ trust in their health care clinicians and hospitals and their willingness to consider using medical cannabis if it is recommended by their clinician or hospital. Methods: We conducted an anonymous, cross-sectional, online survey of adults who participated in the Qualtrics Research Company Panel and used quotas to match our sample to the characteristics of the U.S. population. Results: We received 1120 completed surveys. The vast majority of respondents (84.4%) reported having a regular provider and 42.5% of those who reported having a regular physician and nearly 35.6% of those who reported having another regular provider (e.g., nurse practitioner, physician assistant) reported that they “completely” trusted that clinician. Those who reported “completely” trusting their usual clinician were more than twice as likely to report they would definitely use medical cannabis if recommended (42.5% vs 20.6%). Similarly, the greater respondents’ trust in hospitals, the more likely they were to report a willingness to consider using recommended medical cannabis. Conclusion: Patient trust in their health providers is related to patients’ willingness to use recommended medical cannabis.
Until We Begin Listening, There Can Be Little Hope for Understanding One Another: An Interview With Dr. Philip C. Chinn
Authors: Brandon Regina R. , Higgins Kyle , Boone Randall
Published: May 2022

Dr. Philip C. Chinn is professor emeritus in the Division of Special Education and Counseling, California State University, Los Angeles. He taught at the University of Utah and University of North Texas, and served for 6 years directing the office of Multicultural and Ethnic Concerns at the Council for Exceptional Children. He was department head at Texas A&M University, Commerce, and a division chair at California State University, LA. Dr. Chinn served as vice-president of the National Association for Multicultural Education (NAME) and co-editor of the organization’s official journal, Multicultural Perspectives. He was appointed to the California State Commission for Special Education and served on the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Board of Examiners. Dr. Chinn is the co-author of two textbooks in special education and has written several textbook chapters and journal articles. The 11th edition of his co-authored Multicultural Education in a Pluralistic Society (Pearson) was released in 2021.
Estimation of Kidney Function in Patients With Multiple Myeloma: Implications for Lenalidomide Dosing
Authors: Salama Engie , Lam Stepfanie , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Tzachanis Dimitrios , Momper Jeremiah D. , M. Saunders Ila
Published: May 2022

Background

Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory drug used to treat multiple myeloma that requires renal dosing adjustment based on Cockcroft-Gault (CG). Various equations to estimate kidney function exist and pose a potential issue with lenalidomide dosing.

Objective

The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the impact of estimating kidney function in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients with CG, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD), and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) and their potential impact on lenalidomide dosing.

Methods

Data from 1121 multiple myeloma patients at the time of diagnosis acquired from the Mayo Clinic were used to calculate creatinine clearance (CrCl) using Cockcroft-Gault with actual body weight (CGABW), ideal body weight (CGIBW), or adjusted body weight (CGAdjBW); MDRD; and CKD-EPI for each subject. Discordances in dosing were then analyzed, and lenalidomide exposure was calculated for each subject to assess impact on pharmacokinetics of lenalidomide for patients who received discordant doses.

Results

Overall, approximately 16% of patients received a discordant dose when using MDRD or CKD-EPI instead of CGABW. The most common dose discordance was the decrease of a full dose of lenalidomide 25 mg when using CGABW down to 10 mg and when using MDRD or CKD-EPI with 53.8% to 55.6% of all discordances in this category. When assessing different body weights, the most common discordance was a decrease from 25 to 10 mg when using CGIBW instead of CGABW; the same trend was observed when using CGAdjBW instead as well. Patients were also at risk of over- or underexposure based on area under the concentration versus time curve (AUC) for discordant dosing.

Conclusion and Relevance

A significant proportion of patients are at risk of under- or overdose of lenalidomide if CKD-EPI or MDRD are used instead of CGABW. Physicians should use CGABW when estimating renal function to dose lenalidomide.