bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Application of Red-Emitting Thermo-Sensitive Carbon Quantum Dots
Authors: Bian Chenyu , Song Zhengxun , Ju Tuoyu , Lv Hongfu , Yang Huanzhou
Published: June 2022

At present, there are few methods to detect cell temperature and most of them are blue light emitting. The red-emitting carbon quantum dots have the characteristics of high brightness, large Bohr radius, easy chemical modification and biological coupling, and high photothermal conversion
efficiency. This paper introduces the synthesis and application of a new type of red-emitting thermo-sensitive carbon quantum dots. The quantum dot solution is brown when illuminated by white light, and red when excited by green light. The fluorescence intensity of the prepared quantum dots
has a linear relation with temperature, and the linear coefficient is about 0.992, which can be used for non-destructive testing of cells. The carbon quantum dots synthesized in this study have performed temperature detection, fluorescence imaging and verification of the endocytosis of quantum
dots on mouse myoblasts (C2C12). The results show that there is no damage to the cells and the temperature measurement results are accurate. The carbon quantum dots synthesized by this research method have good stability, biocompatibility, and are basically non-toxic to cells. It is of great
significance for the development of nanoscale thermometer for non-destructive measurement of cells.
Design and Testing of a Piezoelectric Linear Micro-Displacement Actuator
Authors: Lei Qing , Wang Hai-Gang , Tian Xiao-Chao
Published: June 2022

To realize precision drive and control in actuators, a piezoelectrically driven linear micro-displacement actuator was designed in this paper. The structure of the actuator was designed, and the working mechanism of the micro-displacement actuator was analyzed. In addition, the theoretical
and simulation analyses of the micro-displacement actuator were performed by establishing the system dynamics model, and the factors that influence the performance of the micro-displacement actuator were obtained. Finally, prototypes were produced, and the micro-displacement drive was tested
to examine the influence of driving voltage, driving frequency, and load on the displacement and speed of the drive. The results indicate that the platform movement speed decreases with increasing load, and the maximum movement speed is 3.45 mm/s when the driving voltage and driving frequency
are 150 V and 237.8 Hz, respectively. The actuator designed in this paper is suitable for driving small and delicate materials and platforms.
Investigation on the Nonlinear Chiroptical Activity of Cysteine Capped Ag20 Nanoclusters
Authors: Ye Chuan-Xiang , Wang Jintao
Published: June 2022

Exploring chiral phenomena on nanoscale level by capping organic ligand on the surface of metal nanoclusters has drawn increased attention in both theoretical and experimental aspects. Here, we perform a systematical theoretical investigation on the linear and nonlinear chiroptical
properties of chiral ligand capped Ag20 nanoclusters. The influences of chiral ligand (D-cysteine) and structural configuration (V- and S-type connections) of Ag20 nanoclusters on the chiroptical behaviors of their complexes are investigated. The calculated results demonstrate
that the electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and two-photon absorption (TPA) spectra of complexes are sensitive to their structural configuration. It is found that S-type connection will result in stronger ECD and two-photon circular dichroism (TPCD). And, the V-type connection will result
in stronger TPA spectra. Additionally, based on analysis of the frontier molecular orbitals, it is confirmed that the hybridization between HOMOs plays a pivotal role in the induced chirality.
Verification and Analysis of Lumped-Circuit Approximate Models of Twisted-Stranded Cables for High-Speed Railway Signaling Systems
Authors: Qiao Yaqiong , Liang Zhiguo , Yu Jianjie , Duan Wu , Bai Shuai
Published: June 2022

To evaluate the transmission characteristics, anti-electromagnetic interference performance, and cable channel fault detection of multi-core twisted-stranded cables used in high-speed railway signaling systems, this study established a model for accurate twisted cable physical simulations.
With the LEU-BSYYP cable, the finite element method (FME) software constructed a one twisted cycle length model and calculated the per-unit-length (pul) distribution parameters of the cable under high-frequency pulses. The purpose is to simulate long-distance twisted cables physically and
analyze the factors affecting the transmission quality and transmission distance of high-frequency signals quantitatively by constructing a lumped equivalent circuit comprising cascaded T-type circuits. Additionally, by analyzing the relationship between the working frequency and the characteristic
impedance error, where the characteristic impedance error is the difference in characteristic impedance between a lumped equivalent circuit and a lossy uniform transmission line, the number of T-type cascaded circuits that fulfill the accuracy requirements of the physical simulation is determined.
Finally, the model output is compared with the measured waveforms using a 500 m LEU-BSYYP twisted pair cable as an example to verify the correctness of the equivalent modeling of the lumped circuit in the paper.
Meteorological Factors Responsible for Major Power Outages during a Severe Freezing Rain Storm over Eastern Canada
Authors: Thériault Julie M. , McFadden Vanessa , Thompson Hadleigh D. , Cholette Mélissa
Published: June 2022

Winter precipitation is the source of many inconveniences in many regions of North America, for both infrastructure and the economy. The ice storm that hit the Canadian Maritime Provinces on 24–26 January 2017 remains one of the most expensive in history for the province of New Brunswick. Up to 50 mm of freezing rain caused power outages across the province, depriving up to one-third of New Brunswick residences of electricity, with some outages lasting 2 weeks. This study aims to use high-resolution atmospheric modeling to investigate the meteorological conditions during this severe storm and their contribution to major power outages. The persistence of a deep warm layer aloft, coupled with the slow movement of the associated low pressure system, contributed to widespread ice accumulation. When combined with the strong winds observed, extensive damage to electricity networks was inevitable. A 2-m temperature cold bias was identified between the simulation and the observations, in particular during periods of freezing rain. In the northern part of New Brunswick, cold-air advection helped keep temperatures below 0°C, while in southern regions, the 2-m temperature increased rapidly to slightly above 0°C because of radiational heating. The knowledge gained in this study on the processes associated with either maintaining or stopping freezing rain will enhance the ability to forecast and, in turn, to mitigate the hazards associated with those extreme events.

Significance Statement

A slow-moving low pressure system produced up to 50 mm of freezing rain for 31 h along the east coast of New Brunswick, Canada, on 24–26 January 2017, causing unprecedented power outages. Warm-air advection aloft, along with a combination of higher wind speeds and large amounts of ice accumulation, created ideal conditions for severe freezing rain. The storm began with freezing rain along the entire north–south cross section of eastern New Brunswick and changed to rain only in the south, when local temperatures increased to >0°C. Near-surface cold-air advection kept temperatures below 0°C in the north. Warming from the latent heat produced by freezing contributed to persistent near-0°C conditions during freezing rain.
Prediction of Trauma Mortality Incorporating Pre-injury Comorbidities Into Existing Mortality Scoring Indices
Authors: Ahmed Nasim , Kuo Yen-Hong
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The purpose of the study is to develop a comprehensive risk score of mortality in trauma victims that can predict the in-hospital mortality better than trauma injury severity score (TRISS) and A Severity Characterization of Trauma (ASCOT) score.

Methods

All hospitalized trauma patients, between the ages of 16 and 89 years old were included in the study. The National Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database of the calendar year 2011-2016 was accessed for the development of a traum mortality scoring system (TMS). The prediction of mortality was tested by creating a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve and an area under the curve (AUC). ROCs and AUCs of TMS were compared with TRISS and ASCOT score.

Results

The AUC of TMS (0.892, 95% CI: 0.888-0.896) was better than TRISS (0.864, 95% CI: 0.859-0.869, P <0.0001) and ASCOT (0.841, 95% CI: 0.835-0.846, P <0.0001), respectively, in blunt injury. Similarly, TMS prediction (AUC: 0.949, 95% CI: 0.940-0.958) was better in penetrating injury when compared with TRISS (0.942, 95% CI: 0.934-0.951, P = 0.030) and ASCOT (0.924, 95% CI: 0.912-0.936, P <0.0001), respectively.

Conclusion

TMS can predict the in-hospital mortality better than TRISS and ASCOT.
Interrupted transit and common mental disorders among migrants in Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Bojorquez Ietza , Sepúlveda Jaime , Lee Deandra , Strathdee Steffanie
Published: June 2022

Background:

Policies of migration contention can interrupt the transit of people on the move, forcing them to remain in wait in non-destination countries. This liminal condition might impact negatively on migrants’ mental health.

Aims:

To assess the relationship between interrupted transit and common mental disorders (CMD; symptoms of depression or anxiety), among migrants in shelters in Tijuana, Mexico.

Methods:

Cross-sectional survey conducted in November to December 2020 and February to April 2021. We assessed depressive symptoms with the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale (CES-D-7), and symptoms of anxiety with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-2). We evaluated the association of being in interrupted transit (sent back from the United States to Mexico), as compared to having not crossed to the United States yet or planning to stay in Mexico, with having a CMD (either depressive or anxiety symptoms), as well as the association of other migration-related variables with CMD.

Results:

Being in interrupted transit (OR = 1.74, 95% CI [1.12, 2.71]), and having experienced violence during transit (OR = 2.50, 95% CI [1.63, 3.82]) were associated with CMD.

Conclusions:

Interrupted transit is a potential risk factor for mental health problems among migrants. Migration and public health policies should consider the mental health consequences of interrupted transit, and promote initiatives to address the mental health needs of migrants on the move.
Commercialisation of the sweetpotato value chain: Impacts on women producers in Mozambique
Authors: Mayanja Sarah , Mudege Netsayi , Snyder Katherine A , Kwikiriza Norman , Munda Eliah , Achora Janet , Grant Fredrick
Published: June 2022

Traditionally, sweetpotato is a woman's crop grown primarily for food in Mozambique. With the introduction of Vitamin A rich varieties, efforts were made to commercialize the crop. This study assessed the effects of this commercialization on women producers. Findings indicate that though women devoted more land to sweetpotato, men got higher yields, sold more and obtained better prices. Nonetheless, women dominated the roots value chain and increased their participation in markets. The more lucrative sweetpotato vine chain was dominated by men (75% men), as the resources and skills required to engage in this activity were a significant challenge for women. Women perceived that sweetpotato commercialization increased their ability to make production decisions, though it has not resulted in any changes in ownership of resources. Women and men both noted a subtle change in norms. Men for example perceived that their ability to make decisions had reduced, while women noted that they had taken on more leadership positions locally. These changes might be attributed to the role played by project implementors who encouraged men to allow their spouses to engage more in commercial activities. Whilst women faced challenges related to literacy, market entry and access to resources, they valued the experience obtained in improving their entrepreneurial skills. Future commercialization initiatives should work on linking women to business services and building stronger farmer-processer linkages. Efforts to sensitize men about the benefits of women's engagement in business showed some impact and should be included in further work on crop commercialization.
Comfort properties of fabrics knitted from a two-ply yarn derived from abacá and cotton
Authors: Karasawa Yuki , Mizuhashi Hideaki , Uemae Mayumi , Yoshida Hiroaki , Kamijo Masayoshi
Published: June 2022

In the present study, the comfort properties of knitted fabrics made from a two-ply yarn comprising a paper yarn and a cotton yarn were investigated. The objective was to elucidate the characteristics of paper yarn in comparison with cotton in terms of the design and development of comfortable and ecofriendly textiles that directly contact the skin. A two-ply yarn comprising a paper yarn made from abacá and a cotton yarn was prepared. Five fabrics with different proportions of paper were prepared by changing the knitting ratio of the two-ply yarn to a 100% cotton yarn. The mechanical properties (tensile, shearing, bending, compression, surface, contact area, and air permeability properties) and various thermal and moisture-transport properties of the fabric samples were determined. Those investigations revealed that the surface roughness increased, the friction coefficient decreased, the contact area decreased (in both the dry and wet state), the air permeability increased, the thermal conductivity increased, and the moisture diffusivity increased as the proportion of paper yarn increased. The fabric consisting of only the two-ply yarn was noticeably stiffer than the fabrics that also contained a pure cotton yarn. The results suggest the possibility of developing clothes that feel comfortable next to the skin, even when wet (e.g. underwear and socks) by knitting the two-ply yarn in a well-balanced ratio with cotton yarns.
Hard science, soft science: A political history of a disciplinary array
Authors: Shapin Steven
Published: June 2022

A distinction between the “hard” and “soft” scientific disciplines is a modern commonplace, widely invoked to contrast the natural and the social sciences and to distribute value accordingly, where it was generally agreed that it was good to be “hard,” bad to be “soft.” I trace the emergence of the distinction to institutional and political circumstances in the United States in the second part of the twentieth century; I describe varying academic efforts to give the contrast coherent meaning; I note the distinction’s uses in disciplines’ reflections on their own present and possible future status; and I document the consequential circulation of the antonym in settings where resources for science were distributed. To follow the history of the “hard–soft” distinction is to open a window on changing sensibilities about what science is, what values are attached to it, and what it is for. I conclude with speculations about more recent changes in the value-schemes implicated in the “hard” and the “soft” and about pertinent changes in the place of the “soft” human sciences in governance and production. I envisage a possible future in which the commonplace distinction might wither away.
Iterative learning control of fractional-order linear systems with nonuniform pass lengths
Authors: Zhao Yang , Li Yan , Zhang Fangfang , Liu Haiying
Published: June 2022

Most previous studies about fractional-order iterative learning control (FOILC) assume fixed pass lengths in iteration domain and identical initial condition. These fundamental preconditions may be violated in practical applications. This paper introduces a novel FOILC strategy for tracking control of fractional-order linear systems. To relax the fixed pass lengths assumption, redefined tracking error is applied to formulate control input. Meanwhile, an initial state learning algorithm is introduced to relax the identical initial condition assumption. Strict convergence analysis of the tracking error in iteration domain is given. Finally, two illustrative simulation examples are applied to verify the efficiency and applicability of the proposed algorithm.
A novel robust output-based control approach via adaptive event-triggered scheme
Authors: Behnia Atefeh , Shafiei Mohammad Hossein
Published: June 2022

This paper proposes a new robust output-feedback adaptive event-triggered control (AETC) method for linear systems with parametric uncertainties. The proposed event-triggered mechanism (ETM) is obtained based on the [Formula: see text] stability condition. In this paper, two design approaches are presented, the emulation approach (pre-designed control gain) and the co-design approach. In the latter, the event-triggering law and the output-feedback controller are designed simultaneously to have a more efficient control system. The proposed adaptive event-triggered mechanism (AETM) in both approaches leads to an increase in the average of inter-event times based on linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Consequently, in the proposed methods, the stability of the event-based system is ensured, the Zeno phenomenon is avoided, the feasibility margin and the quality of the response are well maintained, and the number of samplings is reduced, considerably. Finally, to indicate the capability of the proposed methods, two numerical simulations are presented.
Engaging in the Discourse of Fractions in a Bilingual Maltese Classroom
Authors: Farrugia Marie Thérèse
Published: June 2022

Context:

The island of Malta is a former British colony, and to this day, education continues to be accessed bilingually. For mathematics education, Maltese and English are used for verbal interaction, with subject-specific words tending to be retained in English. Written mathematics texts are in English, including textbooks, worksheets, digital texts, and examinations. Thus, the “academic” language of mathematics is generally considered—and accepted—to be English.

Objective of Research:

It is important for Maltese students to gain access to the academic (English) mathematics language to access the discourse of power and still use Maltese in the process. The focus of this study is language as part of the discourse of fractions. The research question was: How can Maltese bilingual children be supported in accessing the discourse of fractions?

Participants:

The author assumed the dual role of teacher and researcher. The students were 16 nine-year-old children attending a fourth-grade class. Six of these children also participated in two interviews each.

Intervention:

The author adopted a teacher/researcher role and taught the topic Fractions (five lessons). The topic was chosen at the request of the class teacher. The class teacher stated that although her students had previously mastered fractions of a region (e.g., 1/3 of a circle), they had not understood fractions of quantities (e.g., 1/3 of a set of 12 books). During her teaching, the author focused on language explicitly; she started discussions on fractions with the students using Maltese and English, and gently prompted them toward increased use of mathematical English. The aim of this more detailed articulation of mathematical ideas was for the children to express a better understanding of fractions of quantities.

Research Design:

This qualitative case study centered its analysis on the classroom interaction and interview data. The theoretical framework drew from Anna Sfard’s definition of mathematical discourse, namely, that a discourse consists of words, endorsed narratives, routines, and visual mediators. “Understanding of fractions” was considered in terms of participation in, or engagement with, in the discourse of fractions.

Conclusions:

The initial use of translanguaging enabled new discourse elements related to endorsed narratives, routines, and visual mediators. These three elements then supported lengthier and varied contributions in the academic language, and thus, I argue that the endorsed narratives, routines, and visual mediators served as “anchors” to support new language practices (new words of the discourse). Ultimately, the children’s engagement with the four discourse elements indicated that by the end of the five lessons, they had a better understanding of fractions of quantities.
Parenting Stress During COVID-19 Lockdown: Correlates with Family and Child Factors
Authors: Li Gen , Tan Tony Xin , Wang Peng
Published: June 2022

In response to the COVID-19, a 76-day city-wide strict lockdown was imposed in Wuhan, China. This study aimed to document the family’s psychological status during the lockdown and test the role of family functioning, children’s mental health, child-parent relationship as well as parenting time during pandemic on parenting stress. The results showed that nearly 18% of the children exhibited clinical-level mental health problems. The children’s mental health and child-parent conflict fully mediated general family functioning’s impact on parenting stress. The change in childcaring time moderated the effect of the children’s mental health problems and child-parent conflict on parenting stress. Findings indicated that, during COVID-19 lockdown, children’s mental health and child-parent conflict contributed to parenting stress. More childrearing time would reduce the impact of children’s mental health on parenting stress.
Correlation of piano lesson success of music teacher candidates with their piano exam anxiety levels and their opinions on causes of anxiety
Authors: Kurtuldu Mehmet Kayhan
Published: June 2022

This study aimed at analysing the correlation between the anxiety level of music teacher candidates during piano exams and possible causes of anxiety and their exam performance. The teacher candidates in the study group were given a questionnaire for piano exam anxiety. Anxiety levels of students and their opinions on causes of anxiety were determined with the data collected through the questionnaire that identified personal anxiety levels in piano exams and the causes of anxiety. The exam scores of students in the piano class who were given the questionnaire were determined and associated with their anxiety levels for comparison. Various statistical processes (mean, t test, Anova etc.) were used to find out anxiety levels and to make comparison. The study concluded that the students had high anxiety levels in general, and a significant part of students with high anxiety level had relatively lower performance in piano class.
Weekday breakfast habits and mood at the start of the school morning
Authors: Kawabata Masato , Burns Stephen Francis , Choo Hui-Cheng , Lee Kerry
Published: June 2022

Background

Good nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep are important for promoting health. However, it is not well characterized how these lifestyle behaviours are associated with mood at the start of school days.

Aim

To identify the weekday health-related behaviours (breakfast intake, physical activity, and sleep) of Singaporean adolescents and explore their associations with mood at the beginning of the school morning.

Methods

365 adolescents (52.3% boys, 47.7% girls) aged 14–19 years ( M = 16.9, SD = 1.3 years) completed a survey set on breakfast habits, physical activity participation, sleep duration, and mood.

Results

More than one-third (38.6%) of participants never (15.0%) or irregularly (23.6%) consumed breakfast on weekdays. Adolescents consuming breakfast irregularly reported significantly higher negative mood scores than regular breakfast consumers ( p = .002; d = .404). Almost two-thirds (64.1%) of adolescents did <60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on weekdays and reported lower positive morning mood scores than those who ≥60 min of MVPA ( p = .014; d = .284). Although most (88.3%) adolescents slept <8 h each night, sleep duration was not related to either positive mood or negative mood.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that eating breakfast on a regular basis and completing for ≥60 min of weekday MVPA are useful behaviours to start school days in a better mood. Parents and health educators should recognise the importance of establishing these habits and support students by instigating practical approaches so they can achieve a regular breakfast intake and physical activity engagement.
Did Foucault Find a ‘Way Out’ of Hegel?
Authors: Macherey Pierre
Published: June 2022

A ‘way out’ expresses a movement which looks completely different depending on whether one views it prospectively or retrospectively: in the first instance, it signifies ‘to emerge from’, which suggests a relationship of continuity; in the second it signifies ‘to breach a threshold’, a distancing, that is to say, a rupture. Which of these two meanings should we ascribe to the expression ‘Foucault’s way out of Hegel’ – that of a connection, which emerges when we look behind us, or that of a disjunction, which appears when we look ahead? That of a line of descent, which obliges us to contend with a legacy, or that of rejection, thus a refusal to accept it? This is the very question that we want to confront.
What Role Does Regulation Play in Responsible Innovation of Nanotechnology in Food and Agriculture? Insights and Framings from U.S. Stakeholders
Authors: Merck Ashton W. , Grieger Khara D. , Cuchiara Maude , Kuzma Jennifer
Published: June 2022

Historically, market regulation has played an important role in shaping the trajectory of scientific and technological innovation in food and agriculture. However, regulators’ traditional focus on safety and efficacy may be insufficient to address more complex ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of novel products, such as the use of nanotechnology and nanomaterials in food and agriculture (nano-agrifoods). One solution might be to implement the principles of responsible innovation (RI) to challenge innovators and policymakers to better anticipate risks further upstream and be responsive to societal desires and concerns, although substantial barriers to implementation persist. This paper presents stakeholder views on the relationship between regulation and RI in nano-agrifoods based on a broader U.S. stakeholder engagement study conducted in the fall of 2020. We found that participants raised key issues that incorporated all 4 pillars of RI (anticipation, inclusion, reflexivity, responsiveness). We also found that participants’ attitudes about the relationship between regulation and innovation informed their recommendations about the relationship between regulation and RI. These attitudes are represented in a spectrum of views, ranging from “regulation as barrier” to “regulation as driver” of innovation. We further identified implications for how each attitude might be used to operationalize RI in regulatory systems. Overall, these results suggest that just as regulation drove key innovations in the twentieth century, regulation may still have a role to play in helping to promote RI of nano-agrifoods in the twenty-first.
Clinical outcomes of AngioJet rheolytic thrombectomy in the treatment of May–Thurner syndrome-related deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Wei Wen-Cheng , Hsin Chun-Hsien , Yang Hsuan-Tzu , Su Ta-Wei , Su I-Hao , Chu Sung-Yu , Ko Po-Jen , Yu Sheng-Yueh , Lee Chun-Hui
Published: June 2022

Objective

May–Thurner syndrome (MTS) is an anatomic stenotic variation associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the left leg. The classical DVT treatment strategy is medical treatment without thrombus removal. This study was performed to assess the clinical outcomes of the combination of AngioJet™ rheolytic thrombectomy and stenting for treatment of MTS-related DVT.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients treated for MTS-related DVT from January 2017 to June 2020 at a single institution.

Results

Fourteen patients (nine women) underwent AngioJet™ rheolytic thrombectomy for MTS-related DVT during the study period. The median DVT onset time was 8 days (interquartile range (IQR), 3–21 days). The median procedure time was 130 minutes (IQR, 91–189 minutes), and the median hospital stay was 7 days (IQR, 5–26 days). One patient had a residual thrombus and occluded iliac stent and underwent adjuvant catheter-directed thrombolysis for revascularization. The primary patency rate for the iliac stent was 92.9% at 12 months.

Conclusion

Concomitant AngioJet™ rheolytic thrombectomy and stenting of MTS-induced lesions may be beneficial for patients with MTS-related DVT.
Service user perspectives on engagement in an occupational therapy-led pulmonary rehabilitation programme: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Bradley Gemma , Rooney Leigh , Whitehead Phillip J
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an intervention for people with chronic respiratory conditions. There are questions about which components are important to its success, including the nature of occupational therapy involvement. The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of people who had attended an occupational therapy-led PR programme in the United Kingdom to determine the most important components.

Method

Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with service users who had experience of a community-based PR programme. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using the framework analysis method with three researchers contributing to the analysis.

Findings

Nine people took part in the interviews, with a mean age of 72 years. Four themes were identified which were organised around the concepts of Doing, Being, Becoming Belonging. These were ‘Doing exercise and physical activity’, ‘being breathless’, ‘belonging as an individual within the group’ and ‘becoming a person who lives with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease’.

Conclusion

Doing physical activity, whilst coping with being breathless and belonging as an individual within a group can positively influence experiences and perceived outcomes during and after PR. These dimensions have the potential to shape occupation-focussed PR programmes and the occupational therapy contribution in this area of practice.
Identification of driving forces for windbreak and sand fixation services in semiarid and arid areas: A case of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Cui Lihan , Shen Zhen , Liu Yuexin , Yu Chaoyue , Lu Qingling , Zhang Zhonghao , Gao Yang , Nie Tiantian
Published: June 2022

Soil wind erosion is a global problem that leads to increasingly serious regional land degradation, where the need for windbreak and sand fixation services (WSFS) is substantial. Inner Mongolia plays an important role in global semiarid and arid areas and the severe land degradation resulting from soil wind erosion warrants an urgent solution. However, the mechanism of influence of various driving factors on windbreak and sand fixation services is still not fully studied. In this paper, the revised wind erosion equation (RWEQ) model was used to synthesize the monthly spatiotemporal dynamics of soil wind erosion modulus (SWEM) and WSFS in Inner Mongolia from January 2000 to February 2020 from a semi-monthly scale. The influencing factors of WSFS were examined from both natural and anthropogenic aspects. Results show that over the past 20 years, the average SWEM in Inner Mongolia was 118.06 t ha−1 yr−1, the areas with severe wind erosion were mainly concentrated in the desert areas in the southwest of Inner Mongolia, and the forests in the northeast suffered less soil wind erosion. Meanwhile, the average WSFS was 181.11 × 108 t yr−1, with the high-value areas mainly located in major deserts, sandy land, and the area bordering Mongolia in the north and the low-value areas mainly located in the densely forested northeast and the Gobi Desert in the northwest. Both SWEM and WSFS showed a clear downward trend and a certain periodicity over the past 20 years. WSFS showed two peaks a year (April and October). Among the natural factors, precipitation and NDVI showed a significant correlation with WSFS and were identified as the main driving factors of WSFS, whereas temperature had no significant correlation. Among the anthropogenic factors, farming and animal husbandry intensity and GDP showed a positive correlation with WSFS, whereas population showed a negative correlation. These four types of factors were identified as socio-economic factors that drive WSFS. Meanwhile, WSFS did not show any significant correlation with the administrative area. Land use change contributed to a large proportion of WSFS change, thereby suggesting that the intensity of human activities is another central driver of WSFS.
‘Compañerismo’: Care and Power in Affective Labor Relations
Authors: Chan Carol , Fernández-Ossandón Rosario
Published: June 2022

Many Chilean women employers desire domestic workers who are also ‘partners’ or ‘someone to do life with’. Taking ‘partnership’ or ‘compañerismo’ seriously, this paper draws on an affective labor framework and economic sociology to examine how care and power operate in affective and highly commodified labor relations between Chilean women employers and migrant Filipina domestic workers. We contextualize this discussion within historical relations of servitude in Chile and salient demands for more horizontal social and gender relations. We show that rather than reinforcing power or control, employers’ emphases on affective aspects of the labor relation enable their willful ignorance of power hierarchies, through normalizing the racialized presence of the worker in the household. However, explicit talk about money exposes the material conditions of affect and care in this racialized affective relationship. This reveals the uneven distribution and production of both care and power in the household, and highlights the disruptive nature of care work as affective labor.
New hybrid organizations creating bridges through innovative educational solutions: The case of Hilversum Media Campus, the Netherlands
Authors: Borges da Costa Sunamita Iris Rodrigues , Lodders Johannes WE
Published: June 2022

Disruptive technologies and services created a new paradigm that changed the way media were created, threatening traditional media organizations. Many media companies have been challenged to respond to new types of media formats, productions and channels, for which they have needed new talents with the right skills and space to experiment. This paper presents the case of the Hilversum Media Campus (HMC) in the Netherlands, a hybrid organization created by a Triple Helix cooperation to develop the new talents necessary to maintain Het Media Park as an economic regional center and for the country’s media industry. This article reflects on the role of hybrid organizations as connection centers of actors, knowledge and interests; discusses the emergence of a new paradigm and its effects on the media sector; and reconstructs the history of the HMC, its conceptualization and structuring, its processes and the results achieved. In the case analysis, certain factors stood out with regard to the results achieved: the research into stakeholders’ ambitions and interests, which led to a defined strategy and targeted actions; the business model construction, with parties having to contribute financially; the allocation of means, bringing energy and focus to the supported deliverables; and the autonomy of the HMC.
Analysis of the similarity design and vibration transmission characteristics of typical support structures of an aero-engine
Authors: Zou Cunjian , Zhai Jingyu , Han Qingkai
Published: June 2022

In the vibration test of an entire aero-engine, the magnitude and phase of the unbalanced vector of the internal rotor must be identified based on the vibration signal of the measuring point on the casing. Therefore, in addition to understanding the vibration transmission law between the high- and low-pressure rotors under unbalanced excitation, the vibration transmission law of the support structure must be studied urgently. However, few studies have investigated the vibration transfer characteristics of typical support structures. In this study, the similarity design of typical support structures was first performed, and the structural parameters of the core member squirrel cage were determined using theoretical calculations. Subsequently, the bush and spring elements were used to establish the connection between the inner and outer rings of the bearing to realise the equivalent simulation of the bearing stiffness. Using this method, refined finite element models of elastic and rigid support structures were established, and the accuracy of the model was verified based on low-speed rotating vibration and hammering tests. Furthermore, the unbalanced vibration transmission law of typical support structures was studied, and the vertical vibration transmission law from an aero-engine bearing pedestal to the panel was established with the vibration transmission rate as the quantitative index. Finally, considering the vital role of the squirrel cage, the influence of the local stiffness degradation of the squirrel cage on the unbalanced vibration transmission of the elastic support structure was studied. The research methods and results of this study can provide a basis for aero-engine assembly as well as manufacturing and structural performance evaluation.
Mechanical comparison of cold-worked versus cold-worked hot-forged dynamic hip screw system
Authors: Azhang Arash , Abdollahi Masoud , Nikkhoo Mohammad
Published: June 2022

Purpose: Dynamic hip screw (DHS) plate fabrication has a crucial role in success rate of surgeries for fractures of the proximal femur. Our research focuses on comparing microstructure and mechanical properties of DHS plates fabricated through two distinct processes. We aimed to compare the mechanical cold-worked (CW) DHS plate versus a DHS plate that fabricated through the cold-worked hot-forged (CWH) DHS plate. Methods: The CW and CWH DHS plates had similar topology, however, tested under different loading scenarios. To make the results comparable, the test for the CW DHS plate was simulated and validated utilizing the finite element modeling (FEM) approach. Then, the model (i.e., the CW DHS plate) was analyzed applying the loading scenario of the CWH DHS plate test. Finally, the results of the FEM analysis for CW and the actual test for CWH DHS plates including compression bending stiffness/strength and proof load were compared. Furthermore, the chemical combination of the two plates was analyzed to investigate if they meet the requirements for ASTM F138 standard. Results: Our analysis showed the amount of “Proof Load” and “Compression Bending Strength” of the CWH DHS plate significantly improved by ∼87% in comparison with the CW DHS plate that both fabricated with ASTM F138 material. On comparison between their grain sizes, the CWH DHS plate has a finer grain size (∼55% smaller than CW DHS plate) which leads to larger yield stress. Conclusion: Although the cold-working process according to ASTM F138 leads to enhance the mechanical performance of a DHS plate, adding hot-forging to the process improved the mechanical performance of DHS plate. The outcome of this study could facilitate the development of the optimal fabrication process for surgical implants which in turn will increase the long-term success rate of the relevant surgeries.
Kidney thrombotic microangiopathy in lupus nephritis: Impact on treatment and prognosis
Authors: Massicotte-Azarniouch David , Kotzen Elizabeth , Todd Sarah , Hu Yichun , Hogan Susan L. , Jain Koyal
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Lupus nephritis (LN) may present with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) on kidney biopsy, the impact of which on outcomes is unclear. This study examined the prognostic importance of LN with TMA on kidney biopsy, including response to therapy and long-term outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, retrospective study of all cases of LN with concomitant TMA on kidney biopsy in the Glomerular Disease Collaborative Network database. Controls were individuals with LN without TMA matched to cases based on demographic and clinical variables. Outcomes were remission at 6- and 12-months, end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and death. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used to ascertain the risks for outcomes, with adjustment for serum creatinine and proteinuria.

Results

There were 17 cases and 28 controls. Cases had higher creatinine, higher proteinuria and greater chronicity on biopsy at baseline compared to controls. The rates of remission at 6-months and 12-months were similar between cases and controls (6-months 53.9% vs 46.4%, adjusted OR 2.54, 95% CI 0.48, 13.37; 12-months 53.9% vs 50.0%, adjusted OR 2.95, 95% CI 0.44, 19.78). Cases were at greater risk for ESKD in univariate analysis (HR 3.77; 95% CI 1.24, 11.41) but not when adjusting for serum creatinine and proteinuria (HR 2.20; 95% CI 0.63, 7.71). There was no significant difference in the risk of death between cases and controls.

Conclusion

Lupus nephritis with renal TMA likely responds to therapy similarly to those without TMA; risk for ESKD is not significantly increased, although the influence of renal function and proteinuria in larger samples is needed.
Healthcare Service Delivery Models for Emerging Economies: Insights from India
Authors: Shroff Arvind , Shah Bhavin J.
Published: June 2022

With the population growing at such a fast pace, expected to reach 1.4 billion by 2022, and more than 70% reside in rural areas, effective healthcare service delivery serves as a primary challenge in India. Ayushman Bharat scheme was launched in 2018 by the Government of India to serve the requirement for comprehensive primary healthcare. This case provides an overview of Ayushman Bharat regarding its impact compared to cross-subsidized models like Aravind Eye Care System (AECS) and Narayana Hrudayalaya (NH) and completely free healthcare delivery by Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospitals (SSSSH). The case outlines the background and the operational model and also emphasizes on core principles of its founders, which have translated into a massive success. The case aims to ignite a discussion on their dynamic execution approach and how these models will evolve if replicated in high-volume government schemes. The emerging discussion points are expected to challenge the conventional beliefs in the health delivery system and expose the major lacunae in implementation, which shrinks the impact of nationwide schemes. The purpose is to ignite a discussion on the differences in strategies and execution of government schemes like the National Health Mission compared to the highly impactful one-person visionaries like AECS, NH and SSSSH. The case is a classic example of the operations strategy coupled with ethics and social responsibility towards improving the health and wellness quotient in the state.
Predischarge Transcutaneous Bilirubin and Total Serum Bilirubin in Predicting Readmission Due to Significant Hyperbilirubinemia in Near-Term and Term Neonates
Authors: Abuzaid Alaa , James Jemila , Alkhalfan Fahad , Hasan Isa
Published: June 2022

Background:

Prevention of bilirubin encephalopathy in healthy near-term and term neonates is the primary focus of newborn care. This study aims to assess the predictive accuracy of transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) and total serum bilirubin (TSB) measured before discharge for subsequent readmission because of significant hyperbilirubinemia in near-term and term neonates during the first postnatal week and to analyze the risk factors associated with readmission because of significant hyperbilirubinemia.

Methods:

TcB with BiliChek device and TSB measurements with bilirubinometer were obtained prior to discharge in all healthy near-term and term neonates delivered and admitted in the postnatal wards during the study period. Postnatal age (in hours) was recorded during bilirubin measurement.

Results:

The predictive ability of predischarge TcB measurement for the optimum cutoff of 104 µmol/L derived from the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve has a negative predictive value of 99.3% with a negative likelihood ratio (LR) of 0.15 and sensitivity of 91.7%, whereas the predictive ability of predischarge TSB measurement for the optimum cutoff of 109 µmol/L derived from the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve has 100% sensitivity and 100% negative predictive value with a negative LR of 0.0 for no readmission because of significant hyperbilirubinemia. The predischarge TSB level of those readmitted neonates had a very high odds for high-risk zone [OR (95% CI) 358.4 (96.39, 1332.59)] and 7.8 folds higher odds for intermediate-risk zone compared to those neonates who did not require readmission in Bhutani’s predischarge nomogram.

Conclusion:

The result of our study showed that both TcB obtained by using BiliChek device and TSB measurements obtained by bilirubinometer for the optimum cutoffs of 104 µmol/L and 109 µmol/L, respectively, and with negative LR of 0.15 and 0.0, respectively, can be used as a safe predischarge tool for no readmission because of significant hyperbilirubinemia after 24 h of postnatal age. The existing Bhutani’s predischarge nomogram for predicting significant hyperbilirubinemia should be an additional screening tool to reduce the rate of subsequent readmission because of hyperbilirubinemia.
The Formation of Positive Group Affective Tone: A Narrative Practice
Authors: Ya-Hui Lien Bella , Hsu Yen-Chen , Chen Yung-huei , Chen Li-Wei
Published: June 2022

This study uses a social construction perspective to examine how group affective tone develops. Longitudinal data were collected over 18 weeks from the weekly diaries of four teams with 24 university students. Narrative analysis revealed experiences of collectively shared patterns of affective states and the interaction contexts (i.e., affective events) that influenced group affective tone convergence. Emergent themes included topic selection, social support, and how effective team norms help members share positive emotions and moods. Social learning, positive emotional sharing, affective events, and behavioral regularities drive the narratives, leading to the emergence of a positive team affective tone.